JP7746326B2 - Programs, information processing systems - Google Patents

Description

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

Conventionally, there are game systems that can provide events in which multiple users form teams to participate. Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a game system that can present a predetermined group name for equipment when members' equipment is uniform. Non-Patent Document 1 also discloses a game system that can present a predetermined group name for equipment when members' equipment is inconsistent. Such group names do not indicate specific equipment, such as "Variety Weapon Club."

Furthermore, in the game system disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2, a predetermined group name is presented for each combination of members. In this way, in conventional game systems, a predetermined group name is presented as identification information for a combination of member characters, equipment, etc. This makes it easier for users to understand the characteristics of a group from the group's identification information. It also strengthens membership.

“Splatoon 2 Strategy Encyclopedia [Splatoon 2] New Fest “Nicknames (Team Names)” and Combinations,” [online], [February 15, 2023], <URL: https://gamepedia.jp/splatoon2/archives/13123> “Project Sekai Cheerful Live Team Name Summary”, [online], [February 15, 2023], <URL: https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vRr_YzjaqksKVxdOF4rQZsk__wLfHDcSW_MOyNQYdj49d1F5R_Dlt2actHlpq9vk5ymMELfXECnbezT/pub>

However, with conventional technology, predetermined identification information is simply presented for combinations of member characters, equipment, etc. As a result, with conventional technology, the group identification information presented to users tends to be uniform.

A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to function as a group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong, and an information generation means for generating identification information for the group based on specific information associated with each of multiple specific characters among the characters belonging to the group.

This disclosure makes it possible to diversify group identification information.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing system. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a module configuration of a terminal. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a module configuration of a server. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions on the terminal of FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure in the server of FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure in the server of FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure in the server of FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure in the server of FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing when changing an accessory. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing when the main part of the game is executed. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing when the main part of the game is executed. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing when creating group identification information. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of group identification information. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen displayed on the terminal of FIG. 2 . FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an accessory change screen displayed on the terminal of FIG. 2. In FIG. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a matching screen displayed on the terminal of FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a matching screen displayed on the terminal of FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a battle screen displayed on the terminal of FIG.

A program and an information processing system according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.
[System Overview]
As shown in FIG. 1 , the information processing system 10 includes a network 20, a plurality of terminals 100, and one or more servers 200. The information processing system 10 is provided as a system for home use or a system for business use. The plurality of terminals 100 are configured to be able to communicate with the server 200 via the network 20. As an example, the information processing system 10 is configured as a game system that provides a game to a plurality of users 11. In the following description, when simply referring to a "game," it means a game provided by the information processing system 10. The users 11 of the terminals 100 can be players of the game. The terminals 100 are an example of a computer. The server 200 is an example of a computer.

[network]
For example, the network 20 includes the Internet and a mobile communication system including a wireless base station. For example, the mobile communication system may be realized as a 3G, 4G, or 5G mobile communication system, a Long Term Evolution (LTE), or a wireless network connectable to the Internet via an access point.

[Device hardware configuration]
Each terminal 100 is used as a game terminal. As a game terminal, the terminal 100 provides the user 11 with a function for playing a game (hereinafter referred to as a game function). Some terminals 100 may be used as a distribution terminal. The distribution terminal may provide the user 11 with a function for distributing videos including a distributor's gameplay. Some terminals 100 may be used as a viewing terminal. The viewing terminal may provide the user 11 with a function for viewing videos distributed by a distributor.

As an example, each terminal 100 is a smartphone. Each terminal 100 may also be a mobile terminal device such as a feature phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a tablet computer. Each terminal 100 may also be a fixed terminal device such as a personal computer (PC) or a workstation.

As an example, the terminal 100 includes a processor 110, memory 120, and storage 130. The terminal 100 may also include a communication interface (IF) 140 and an input/output IF 150. The terminal 100 may also include a microphone 160, a speaker 162, and a touch screen 164. Each component 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. For example, programs are read from storage 130. Data includes 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. As an example, a game program realizes game functions. A game program realizes functions for providing a virtual space and for operating objects placed in that virtual space. A game program realizes functions for providing an environment in which user 11 can play a game.

The communication program realizes the function of communicating with another computer. As an example, the other computer is server 200. Programs stored in storage 130 may include distribution programs, viewing programs, operating systems, simulation programs, user authentication programs, and other programs.

For example, data stored in storage 130 may include data defining the virtual space, data defining objects to be placed in the virtual space, and user information. Objects to be placed in the virtual space may include characters and objects that make up various screens. As an example, user information may include a user ID, user name, gender, age, address, etc. As will be described in more detail below, user information may include information about the character used by user 11 as an avatar, and information about the character's equipment. User information may include in-game currency, in-game items, and various rewards held by user 11.

The communication IF 140 is connected to the network 20. The communication IF 140 communicates with other computers connected to the network 20. 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 those described 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. The 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 operational components. For example, the one or more operational components may include buttons, keys, switches, handles, bars, touchpads, or sticks. The controller transmits an output value to the terminal 100 based on the user 11's operation of the operational component. As an example, the controller may include motion sensors such as an acceleration sensor and 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 11 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 11'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 11. In addition to or instead of the speaker 162, the terminal 100 may be provided with an earphone or an earphone jack to which earphones can be connected.

The touch screen 164 may include a monitor 166 and a touch sensor 167. The monitor 166 may be realized as a transmissive or non-transmissive display device. For example, the monitor 166 may be realized as an LCD monitor, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor, or other display device. The monitor 166 displays various images. The images displayed on the monitor 166 include various objects such as backgrounds, characters, windows, buttons, menus, lists, and icons. The monitor 166 is not limited to the above. For example, the 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.

Touch sensor 167 transmits an output value based on the operation of user 11 on monitor 166 to processor 110. As an example, touch sensor 167 is realized as a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor, or any other type of touch sensor. The input surface of touch sensor 167 is part or all of the display surface of monitor 166. Touch sensor 167 can be used as an operation device configured to accept input operations from user 11. For example, if the operation device is touch sensor 167, processor 110 accepts the physical contact operation of user 11 on the input surface of touch sensor 167 as the input operation from user 11. For example, input operations from user 11 on touch sensor 167 include touch operations, slide operations, swipe operations, tap operations, drag operations, and operations in other modes.

The operating device is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, if the operating device is a communication IF 140, the processor 110 accepts a signal transmitted from an operating device (not shown) connected via the network 20 as an input operation by the user 11. For example, if the operating device is an input/output IF 150, the processor 110 accepts a signal transmitted from an external input/output device 190 as an input operation by the user 11. For example, if the input/output device 190 is a camera and a distance sensor, when the processor 110 detects the hand of the user 11 from a received captured image, the processor 110 accepts a gesture (a series of hand movements of the user 11) detected based on the captured image and output values as an input operation by the user 11. For example, if the input/output device 190 is a controller, the processor 110 accepts the output value transmitted from the controller as an input operation by the user 11.

[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. The components of the server 200 are 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 a predetermined condition being met. For example, processor 210 may be 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 may be 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 information processing systems 10 are used, such as in an amusement facility, programs and data can be updated all at once.

The programs stored in storage 230 include game programs and communication programs. As an example, the game programs implement game functions. As an example, the game programs implement functions for providing a virtual space and manipulating objects placed in that virtual space.

The communication program realizes the function of communicating with another computer. As an example, the other computer is terminal 100. The programs stored in storage 230 may include a distribution program, an operating system, a simulation program, a user authentication program, and other programs. For example, the data stored in storage 230 may include data defining a virtual space, data defining objects to be placed in the virtual space, and user information.

The communication IF 240 is connected to the network 20. The communication IF 240 communicates with other computers connected to the network 20. 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 those described above.

The input/output IF 250 communicates with external input/output devices (not shown). 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.

[Device Features]
2 , one or more of the components of the terminal 100 are combined to form functionally cohesive modules (functional units). As an example, the terminal 100 includes a game control unit 101, a display control unit 104, a memory unit 105, a communication unit 106, and an input/output unit 107. The game control unit 101 and the display control unit 104 are implemented by a processor 110. The memory unit 105 is implemented by a memory 120 and a storage 130. The communication unit 106 is implemented by a communication IF 140. The input/output unit 107 is implemented by the processor 110, a touch sensor 167, and an input/output IF 150.

The input/output unit 107 detects input operations by the user 11 on the touch sensor 167, and input operations by the user 11 on an external operating device via the input/output IF 150. As an example, when the input/output unit 107 receives an input operation by the user 11 on the touch sensor 167, it detects the coordinates of the input position and identifies the type of input operation. For example, types of input operations that the input/output unit 107 can identify may include touch operations, slide operations, swipe operations, tap operations, drag operations, and operations in other modes. When a series of input operations that have been detected ceases, the input/output unit 107 detects that the contact input has been released from the touch sensor 167. As an example, the input/output unit 107 may function as a means for receiving input operations by the user 11.

The communication unit 106 receives various types of information from one or more servers 200. As an example, the information that the communication unit 106 receives from the server 200 may include game progress information and user information. The game progress information is information for controlling the progress of the game. The game progress information may include various requests. The user information may include information about objects owned by the user 11.

The communication unit 106 transmits various types of information to one or more servers 200. As an example, the information transmitted by the communication unit 106 to the server 200 may include game play information and user information. The game play information is information for reflecting input operations by the user 11 in the progress of the game. The game play information is output in response to input operations received by the input/output unit 107. The game play information includes various requests.

The game control unit 101 identifies instructions from the user 11 based on the coordinates of the input position received by the input/output unit 107, the type of input operation, and the progress of the game. The game control unit 101 can make various determinations related to the progress of the game. The game control unit 101 can perform various lottery draws related to the progress of the game. The game control unit 101 generates game play information based on the instructions from the user 11, the results of various determinations, and the results of various lotteries. The game play information generated by the game control unit 101 is transmitted to the server 200 by the communication unit 106. As an example, the processor 110, as the game control unit 101, can perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing processes (steps) for receiving various information. As an example, the processor 110, as the game control unit 101, can perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing processes (steps) for transmitting various information. As an example, the processor 110, as the game control unit 101, can perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing various processes (steps) for progressing the game.

The display control unit 104 creates an image to be displayed on the monitor 166. The display control unit 104 creates an image of the game screen according to game progress information received via the communication unit 106. The display control unit 104 creates an image of the game screen according to game play information generated by the game control unit 101. The display control unit 104 displays the image of the game screen on the monitor 166. The display control unit 104 may be configured to display the image of the game screen on an external display device via the input/output IF 150. The display control unit 104 may be configured to display the image of the game screen 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. The game screen includes an image in which character objects and terrain objects placed in a virtual space are drawn.

The display control unit 104 may control and draw 2D or 3D UI objects. The game screen may include UI objects for constructing a user interface (hereinafter referred to as UI) required for input operations by the user 11. UI objects are information for assisting the user 11 in input operations required to progress through the game. For example, UI objects are icons, buttons, lists, windows, and menus. The various UI objects shown in this disclosure are merely examples and are not limited to these aspects. As an example, the processor 110, as the display control unit 104, may perform functions according to the contents of the processes by executing various processes (steps) for controlling the display content of the monitor 166.

Various processes in the terminal 100 are realized by hardware and software (programs) executed by the processor 110. Such software may be pre-stored in the storage unit 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 unit 106, and then temporarily stored in a 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 Functions]
3 , the components of the server 200 are combined one by one to form a functionally cohesive module (functional unit). As an example, the server 200 includes a game control unit 201, a storage unit 205, a communication unit 206, and an input/output unit 207. The game control unit 201 is implemented by a processor 210. The storage unit 205 is implemented by a memory 220 and a storage 230. The communication unit 206 is implemented by a communication IF 240. The input/output unit 207 is implemented by the processor 210 and an input/output IF 250.

The communication unit 206 receives various types of information from each terminal 100. For example, the information received by the communication unit 206 from each terminal 100 includes game play information and user information. The communication unit 206 transmits various types of information to each terminal 100. For example, the information transmitted by the communication unit 206 to each terminal 100 includes game progress information and user information. The input/output unit 107 may detect and accept input operations by the user 11 on an external operating device via the input/output IF 250.

The game control unit 201 progresses the game in accordance with game play information received by the communication unit 206 from multiple terminals 100. The game control unit 201 may make various judgments regarding the progress of the game. The game control unit 201 may perform various lotteries regarding the progress of the game. The game control unit 201 generates game progress information in accordance with the results of these processes. The game progress information is transmitted to each terminal 100 by the communication unit 206. As an example, the processor 210, as the game control unit 201, may perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing processing (steps) for receiving various information. As an example, the processor 210, as the game control unit 201, may perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing processing (steps) for transmitting various information. As an example, the processor 210, as the game control unit 201, may perform a function corresponding to the processing content by executing various processing (steps) for progressing the game.

Processing in server 200 is realized by hardware and software (programs) executed by processor 210. Such software may be pre-stored in storage unit 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 unit 206, and then temporarily stored in a 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]
As an example, a game according to the present disclosure may include multiple parts with different characteristics. For example, the multiple parts may include a main part and a sub-part. In the sub-part, user 11 may prepare for the main part. However, the game may be configured to include three or more parts, or may be configured as a single part.

[Main part]
An example of a specific specification of the main part will be described.
As an example, the main part includes the user 11 controlling his or her own avatar. The avatar may be a character selected in advance by the user 11 from among multiple characters. The main part may be a competitive game in which multiple groups compete against each other. The main part may involve multiple groups fighting. Multiple users 11 belong to each group. In other words, multiple groups each have multiple characters. Each character is the avatar of the user 11. For example, the group may be a camp, party, team, or pair. As will be described in more detail below, the avatars of the users 11 are assigned to groups in the order in which their participation applications are received. In the following description, a group participating in the same main part content is referred to as a participating group.

As an example, the maximum number of avatars that can belong to one group is 5. The maximum number of avatars that can belong to one group may be 2 to 4, or may be 6 or more. As an example, a group may contain groups formed in parts other than the main part, or groups made up of people who have a relationship such as friends. A group may be created by combining a group to which avatar 2 belongs and a group to which avatar 3 belongs. A group may also be created by including avatar 5 that does not belong to a group.

The first victory condition in the main part may be that the states of all avatars belonging to the enemy group are changed from a first state to a second state. The state of the avatars is changed from the first state to the second state when a predetermined change condition is met. For example, the change condition is that the hit points, which are one of the avatar's ability parameter values, become 0. For example, the first state is a survival state. For example, the second state is a death state. In other words, the first victory condition is to annihilate all avatars in the enemy group. In the main part, each user 11 can move their own avatar and attack the avatars of enemy users. The hit points of their own avatar decrease when an attack by an enemy user's avatar hits. The hit points of an enemy user's avatar decrease when an attack by an avatar of an allied user hits.

The main part ends when a predetermined battle time has elapsed, even if all avatars of the opposing group have not been annihilated. A secondary victory condition in the main part is to have a higher score than the opposing group at the end of the battle time. Scores can be earned by collecting designated objects placed in the virtual space.

The main part is not limited to the specifications described above. For example, the main part may be a sport such as soccer, tennis, table tennis, boxing, or basketball. For example, the main part may be a race such as a car race, a yacht race, a ski race, or an aerial race. The main part is not limited to being a competitive game. The main part may be a cooperative game in which multiple groups work together to accomplish predetermined challenges. In this case, the challenges may involve developing characters or building cities or buildings.

[Subpart]
An example of a specific specification of the subpart will be described below.
In the sub-part, the user 11 may prepare for the main part. Preparation for the main part includes selecting a character from among the characters owned by the user 11 as their avatar. Preparation for the main part may include adding, exchanging, or deleting avatar equipment, avatar skills, and items owned by the avatar. Avatar equipment includes first accessories and second accessories. That is, the user 11 can change the presence or absence and type of first accessories in the sub-part. The user 11 can change the presence or absence and type of second accessories in the sub-part. Preparation for the main part may include changing the appearance of the avatar. For example, the appearance of the avatar includes the race, gender, body shape, hairstyle, and facial expression. Preparation for the main part involves changing the settings of the avatar.

[Group name]
Each group participating in the main part is given a group name as an example of identification information. The identification information of a group is generated by combining identification information associated with each of the avatars belonging to that group. As an example, the identification information for generating the identification information includes first identification information and second identification information. As an example, the first identification information is first phrase information. For example, the first phrase information is "strong,""charitable,""holy," and "black." The first phrase information is a word or phrase that serves as a modifier. As an example, the second identification information is second phrase information. For example, the second phrase information is "sword,""healing,""angel," and "formal attire." The second phrase information is a word or phrase that serves as a modifier. The first phrase information and the second phrase information are so-called keywords.

The first phrase information and the second phrase information may include phrase information directly associated with the character (hereinafter referred to as direct phrase information) and phrase information indirectly associated with the character (hereinafter referred to as indirect phrase information). Direct phrase information is an example of information that is predetermined for the character and cannot be changed by instructions from user 11. Indirect phrase information is an example of information that can be changed by instructions from user 11. As an example, the indirect phrase information may include phrase information associated with a first accessory of the avatar. As an example, the indirect phrase information may include phrase information associated with a second accessory of the avatar. User 11 can change the indirect phrase information by changing the first accessory and second accessory, which are one of the equipment of the avatar.

As an example, group identification information may be generated by combining information different from phrase information. Information different from phrase information is fixed phrase information. For example, fixed phrase information is "group," "team," and "corps." In other words, fixed phrase information is a phrase that describes a group of multiple characters or users 11.

The group's identification information is generated based on phrase information associated with each of multiple specific characters among the characters belonging to the group. Hereinafter, specific characters may be referred to as specific avatars. Specific characters are a predetermined number of characters among the characters belonging to the group that are less than the upper limit of characters that can belong to the group. As an example, specific characters are a predetermined number of characters in the order in which their participation applications were received. As an example, specific characters are a predetermined number of characters in order of earliest addition to the group. As an example, the predetermined number is three. However, this is not limited to this, and the predetermined number may be two, four or more. In other words, specific characters are a predetermined number (for example, three) of characters included in a group that have specific information associated with them, regardless of whether they are all or some of the characters included in the group.

[Overview of screen transitions on devices]
An overview of screen transitions on the terminal 100 will be described.
4 , various screens may be displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100 depending on the game part, the progress of the game, and user instructions. As an example, the game screens on the terminal 100 may include a home screen 40, an accessory change screen 50, a matching screen 60, and a battle screen 70. The home screen 40, the change screen 50, and the matching screen 60 are displayed in the sub-part. The battle screen 70 is displayed in the main part. The matching screen 60 is displayed when transitioning from the sub-part to the main part.

[Data Structure]
5, in the server 200, the memory 220 and the storage 230 store various pieces of information in association with a user ID as the storage unit 205. The user ID is information for identifying a user.

A user ID is associated with a user name. A character ID is associated with a user ID. The character ID is information that identifies the character that the user controls as an avatar in the main part of the game. In other words, a character is associated with the user as an avatar. For example, characters that a user can use as an avatar include a swordsman, healer, wizard, programmer, scout, and knight.

A first accessory ID is associated with a character ID. The first accessory ID is information that can identify the first accessory. In other words, the first accessory is associated with the avatar. Examples of first accessories include feathers, dolls, skirts, tuxedos (registered trademark), and fans. If the first accessory ID is not associated with the character ID, it indicates that the first accessory is not equipped.

A second accessory ID is associated with the character ID. In other words, a second accessory is associated with the avatar. The second accessory ID is information that can identify the second accessory. Examples of second accessories include glasses, top hats, masks, dog ears, and cat ears. If a second accessory ID is not associated with a character ID, it indicates that the second accessory is not equipped. When one character ID is associated with a user ID, a first accessory ID and a second accessory ID may be associated with the user ID. Note that when multiple character IDs are associated with a user ID, a first accessory ID and a second accessory ID may be associated with each character ID.

As shown in FIG. 6, each of the multiple character IDs is associated with first word/phrase information and second word/phrase information. As an example, a "swordsman" character is associated with the word/phrase information "strong" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "sword" as the second word/phrase information. As an example, a "healer" character is associated with the word/phrase information "compassionate" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "healing" as the second word/phrase information.

As shown in FIG. 7, a first accessory ID is associated with first word/phrase information and second word/phrase information. As an example, a "feather" as a first accessory is associated with the word/phrase information "holy" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "angel" as the second word/phrase information. As an example, a "doll" as a first accessory is associated with the word/phrase information "cute" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "doll" as the second word/phrase information.

As shown in FIG. 8, the second accessory ID is associated with first word/phrase information and second word/phrase information. As an example, "glasses" as the second accessory is associated with the word/phrase information "stylish" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "glasses" as the second word/phrase information. As an example, a "top hat" as the second accessory is associated with the word/phrase information "mysterious" as the first word/phrase information and the word/phrase information "magic" as the second word/phrase information.

[Example of the process flow for changing accessories]
9 , in step S100, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a screen switching operation to the accessory change screen 50. In step S102, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 transmits a screen switching request to the server 200 via the communication IF 140.

In step S104, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives the screen switching request via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 of the server 200 stores in the memory 220 acceptance permission information that identifies whether the accessory change can be accepted on the terminal 100.

In step S106, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the accessory change screen 50 on the monitor 166. In step S108, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts the accessory change operation. In step S110, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 sends an accessory change request to the server 200 via the communication IF 140.

In step S112, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives an accessory change request via the communication IF 240. The accessory change request is information that can identify the installation, removal, or change of a first accessory, and the type of the first accessory. The accessory change request is information that can identify the installation, removal, or change of a second accessory, and the type of the first accessory.

In step S114, the processor 210 of the server 200 updates the information stored in the memory 220 and storage 230 based on the accessory change request. As an example, when an instruction to remove an accessory is given, the processor 210 erases the accessory ID indicating that accessory. In other words, the association between the character and the accessory is canceled. When an instruction to attach or change an accessory is given, the processor 210 adds or overwrites the accessory ID indicating that accessory. In other words, the character and the accessory are associated.

In step S116, the processor 210 of the server 200 transmits the accessory update information to the terminal 100 via the communication IF 240. The update information is information indicating the update contents of the accessory.

In step S118, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the update information via the communication IF 140. In step S120, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays information indicating the updated accessory on the monitor 166 based on the accessory update information.

In step S122, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a screen switching operation instructing switching to the home screen 40. In step S124, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 sends a screen switching request to the server 200 via the communication IF 140. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the home screen on the monitor 166. Thereafter, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 ends the series of processes.

In step S126, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives the screen switching request via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 of the server 200 erases the reception permission information from the memory 220 of the terminal 100. Thereafter, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 ends the series of processes.

[Example of process flow for executing the main part]
10 , in step S210, processor 110 of terminal 100 accepts a match start operation. The match start operation is an operation to instruct a transition to the main part. The match start operation is an operation to instruct a new group to be created.

In step S212, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 sends a match start request to the server 200 via the communication IF 140. The match start request is information that can specify that a transition to the main part will occur. The match start request is information that can specify that a new group will be created. Next, in step S214, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the matching screen 60 on the monitor 166.

In step S216, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives a match start request via the communication IF 240. In step S218, the processor 210 of the server 200 performs processing to create a group. The processor 210 assigns the user of the terminal 100 that sent the match start request to the newly created group. In other words, the processor 210 assigns the character as an avatar to the group. Here, the processor 210 sets the user of the terminal 100 that sent the match start request to be first in the order of joining the group. The processor 210 may also set the user of the terminal 100 that sent the match start request to be the leader of the group. In the following description, a group that has been created and in which the number of characters has not yet reached the upper limit is referred to as a "group waiting to join."

In step S218, the processor 210 stores in the memory 220 waiting-for-join information capable of identifying a waiting-for-join group. The processor 210 can create a list of waiting-for-join groups by referencing the waiting-for-join information. As an example, in step S218, the processor 210 of the server 200 may receive selected group information from another terminal 100 instructing the user to join the waiting-for-join group. In this case, the processor 210 assigns a user identifiable from the selected group information to the waiting-for-join group. In other words, the processor 210 assigns a character as an avatar to the waiting-for-join group. The processor 210 stores in the memory 220 information capable of identifying the order in which the characters joined the group. As an example, the order in which characters join a group ranges from 1 to 5. When the number of characters belonging to the group reaches the upper limit, the processor 210 proceeds to step S220. By the processor 210 as the game control unit 201 executing step S218, the server 200 can function as a group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong. The group creation method can be said to assign characters to groups based on participation requests.

In step S220, the processor 210 of the server 200 executes an identification information generation process to generate identification information for the group. Details of the identification information generation process will be described later. In step S222, the processor 210 of the server 200 transmits an identification information notification, which can identify the identification information generated in step S220, to the terminal 100 via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 also transmits the identification information notification to the terminals 100 used by each user belonging to the same group.

In step S224, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the identification information notification via the communication IF 140. In step S226, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays on the monitor 166 the identification information that can be identified from the identification information notification. In other words, the identification information of the user's own group is presented to the user.

In step S228, processor 210 of server 200 determines the combination of groups to compete in a match. As an example, processor 210 determines the combination of groups to compete in a match by lottery from among groups to which the maximum number of users belong. This is not a limitation, and processor 210 may also determine the combination of groups to compete in a match by groups in which the maximum number of users belong in consecutive order. In other words, processor 210 matches groups.

In step S230, processor 210 of server 200 transmits opponent information to terminal 100 via communication IF 240. The opponent information is information that can identify the identification information of the opponent group that will be the opponent. Processor 210 of server 200 then proceeds to step S236. In step S232, processor 110 of terminal 100 receives the opponent information via communication IF 140. In step S234, processor 110 of terminal 100 displays on monitor 166 the identification information of the opponent group that can be identified from the opponent information. In other words, the identification information of the opponent group is presented to the user.

In step S236, the processor 210 of the server 200 defines a virtual space and places various objects in that virtual space. As an example, the processor 210 constructs a field in the virtual space where the battle will take place by placing terrain objects. The terrain objects may include objects that allow or restrict the actions of avatars. The processor 210 places characters belonging to the participating groups in the virtual space. The processor 210 may also place enemy characters that are common to the participating groups in the virtual space.

In step S238, the processor 210 of the server 200 sends a match start notification to the terminal 100 via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 sends the match start notification to the terminal 100 used by each user belonging to the participating group. The match start notification is information that can identify the start of the match.

In step S240, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives a match start notification via the communication IF 140. In step S242, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the match screen 70 on the monitor 166. This transitions the game from the sub-part to the main part.

In step S244, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 performs terminal-side battle processing. In the terminal-side battle processing, the processor 110 sends and receives various information via the communication IF 140. As an example, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives 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 specified object, the processor 110 transmits play information indicating the content of each operation to the server 200. As an example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives progress information from the server 200. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the battle screen 70 on the monitor 166 in accordance with the progress information.

In step S246, the processor 210 of the server 200 performs server-side battle processing. In the server-side battle processing, the processor 210 transmits and receives various information via the communication IF 240. As an example, the processor 210 of the server 200 may receive play information from multiple terminals 100. The processor 210 of the server 200 manages the movement of the avatar in the virtual space in accordance with the play information. When the avatar is in the second state, the processor 210 does not move the avatar in accordance with the play information. When the avatar is in the first state, the processor 210 moves the avatar in accordance with the play information.

As an example, processor 210 of server 200 manages the attacking actions of an avatar in virtual space in accordance with the play information. When the avatar is in the second state, processor 210 does not cause the avatar to perform an attacking action in accordance with the play information. When the avatar is in the first state, processor 210 causes the avatar to perform an attacking action in accordance with the play information. Processor 210 determines whether an attack by the avatar has hit an avatar of an enemy user from the perspective of the user of that avatar. If processor 210 determines that the attack has hit an avatar of an enemy user, it reduces the hit points of that avatar. In other words, processor 210 manages the hit points corresponding to each of the user's avatar, the avatar of a friendly user, and the avatar of an enemy user, as seen from a user's perspective. An attack by the avatar may hit a field object. Furthermore, the effect of the field object may be exerted on the avatar.

In this way, the processor 210 of the server 200 identifies interactions between avatars by managing the movement and attack actions of the avatars in accordance with the play information. The processor 210 then generates progress information in accordance with the results of this identification. The processor 210 transmits the generated progress information to all terminals 100 used by users belonging to the participating group.

In step S248, the processor 210 of the server 200 sends a match result notification to the terminal 100 if the end condition for the main part is met. When the end condition for the main part is met, the processor 210 determines the match result and generates a match result notification that identifies the match result. The processor 210 sends the match result notification to all terminals 100 used by users belonging to the participating group via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 of the server 200 then ends the series of processes.

In step S250, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the match result notification via the communication IF 140. In step S252, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays on the monitor 166 match result information indicating the match result that can be identified from the match result notification. In step S254, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the home screen 40 on the monitor 166. Thereafter, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 ends the series of processes.

[Example of processing flow for joining a group]
11 , in step S310, processor 110 of terminal 100 accepts a group list display operation. The group list display operation is an operation to instruct the display of a list of groups waiting to join. In step S312, processor 110 of terminal 100 transmits a group list display request to server 200 via communication IF 140. The group list display request is information requesting server 200 to transmit a list of groups waiting to join.

In step S314, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives a group list display request via the communication IF 240. In step S316, the processor 210 of the server 200 creates a list of groups waiting to join at that time, and transmits group list information that can identify the list of groups waiting to join to the terminal 100 via the communication IF 240.

In step S318, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives group list information via the communication IF 140. In step S320, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays on the monitor 166 a list of groups waiting to join that can be identified from the group list information. In step S322, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a group selection operation. The group selection operation is an operation that applies to join a waiting group. The group selection operation is an operation that specifies the waiting group to join. The group selection operation can also be considered an operation that specifies a transition to the main part without creating a new group.

In step S324, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 transmits the selected group information to the server 200 via the communication IF 140. The selected group information is information that instructs joining a waiting group. The selected group information is information that instructs joining a waiting group. The selected group information can also be thought of as information that instructs transition to the main part without creating a new group. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 then proceeds to step S214.

In step S326, the processor 210 of the server 200 receives the selected group information via the communication IF 240. The processor 210 of the server 200 then proceeds to step S218. Receiving a request to start a match and receiving the selected group information are examples of accepting a request to join a group. By the processor 210 executing steps S216 and S326 as the game control unit 201, the server 200 can function as a request accepting means for accepting a request to join a group.

[Example of flow of identification information generation process]
12 , in step S410, the processor 210 of the server 200 extracts phrase information associated with the avatar that is set to number 1 in the order of belonging to the group. As an example, the processor 210 extracts first phrase information from the direct phrase information associated with the number 1 avatar. The processor 210 also extracts first phrase information from the indirect phrase information associated with the number 1 avatar. Note that if the number 1 avatar is not equipped with an accessory, the processor 210 does not extract indirect phrase information.

In step S412, the processor 210 of the server 200 determines the first piece of word or phrase information from the first piece of word or phrase information extracted in step S410. As an example, if multiple pieces of first word or phrase information are extracted, the processor 210 determines one piece of first word or phrase information by lottery.

In step S414, the processor 210 of the server 200 extracts phrase information associated with the avatar that is set to number 2 in the order of its membership in the group. As an example, the processor 210 extracts second phrase information from the direct phrase information associated with the number 2 avatar. The processor 210 also extracts second phrase information from the indirect phrase information associated with the number 2 avatar. Note that the processor 210 does not extract indirect phrase information if the second avatar is not equipped with an accessory.

In step S416, the processor 210 of the server 200 determines the second piece of phrase information from the second piece of phrase information extracted in step S416. As an example, if multiple pieces of second phrase information are extracted, the processor 210 determines one piece of second phrase information by lottery.

In step S418, the processor 210 of the server 200 extracts phrase information associated with the avatar numbered 3 in the order of its membership in the group. As an example, the processor 210 extracts the second phrase information from the direct phrase information associated with the avatar numbered 3. The processor 210 also extracts the second phrase information from the indirect phrase information associated with the avatar numbered 3. Note that if the third avatar is not equipped with an accessory, the processor 210 does not extract indirect phrase information.

In step S420, the processor 210 of the server 200 determines the third piece of word or phrase information from the second piece of word or phrase information extracted in step S418. As an example, if multiple pieces of second word or phrase information are extracted, the processor 210 determines one piece of second word or phrase information by lottery.

In step S422, the processor 210 of the server 200 determines one piece of phrase information by lottery from among the multiple pieces of fixed phrase information. In step S424, the processor 210 of the server 200 generates group identification information based on the phrase information associated with the avatar. As an example, the processor 210 creates a group name, which is the group's identification information, by linking each piece of phrase information in the order of the first piece of phrase information, the second piece of phrase information, the third piece of phrase information, and the fixed phrase information. The processor 210 of the server 200 then terminates the identification information generation process.

As shown in Figure 13, suppose a group has a "Swordsman" in first place, a "Healer" in second place, a "Wizard" in third place, a "Knight" in fourth place, and a "Scout" in fifth place. In this case, the first phrase information associated with the first avatar is "strong," "holy," and "stylish." The second phrase information associated with the second avatar is only "recovery." The second phrase information associated with the third avatar is "magic" and "doll."

Let's assume that "holy" is determined as the first word information, "recovery" as the second word information, "magic" as the third word information, and "corps" as the fixed word information. In this case, the processor 210 of the server 200 connects these word information in this order to generate the group name "Holy Recovery Magic Corps" as identification information. In this way, the word information associated with the first through third characters in the order in which participation applications were received is reflected in the identification information. On the other hand, the word information associated with the fourth and fifth characters is not reflected in the identification information.

In steps S412, S416, and S420, if multiple pieces of phrase information are extracted, one piece of phrase information is selected by lottery. The processor 210 of the server 200 executes these steps as the game control unit 201, allowing the server 200 to function as information selection means. The information selection means is a means for selecting specific information by lottery from among a plurality of pieces of specific information if there is a specific character associated with the specific information.

When the processor 210 executes step S220 (S424) as the game control unit 201, the server 200 can function as information generation means. The information generation means generates identification information for the group based on identification information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group. The information generation means may generate identification information based on one or both of the first identification information and the second identification information. The information generation means generates identification information by combining a plurality of pieces of specific information, including the specific information selected by the information selection means. The information generation means may generate identification information by combining a plurality of pieces of phrase information. In this case, the first piece of phrase information constituting the identification information may be word information associated with the character first added to the group. The first piece of phrase information constituting the group's identification information may be a modifier.

[Example of display screen on terminal and processing flow related to display]
[Outline of virtual space]
In the main part of the game, events in the virtual space defined by the server 200 can be reproduced in real time in the virtual space defined by each of the terminals 100 .

Events in the virtual space managed by the server 200 are updated in accordance with play information received from multiple terminals 100. The server 200 transmits progress information to each terminal 100 in accordance with the results of updating events in the virtual space. Events in the virtual space managed by each terminal 100 can be updated each time in accordance with the progress information received from the server 200. In this way, in the virtual space, some or all of the events in that virtual space are shared between the server 200 and the terminals 100. In the following description, when the term "virtual space" is simply used, no distinction is intended to be made between the virtual space managed by the server 200 and the virtual space managed by the terminal 100.

The various objects that can be placed in the virtual space include the user's avatar. The various objects that can be placed in the virtual space may include a gravestone object, as an example of an object that represents an avatar that has entered the second state. As an example, the various objects that can be placed in the virtual space may include a designated object.

Various objects that can be placed in the virtual space may include one or more terrain objects that form a field. As an example, a terrain object may include an object that affects the movement of an avatar. For example, a terrain object may include objects that limit the movement of an avatar, such as trees, rocks, rivers, oceans, and mountains. For example, a terrain object may include an object that reduces the movement speed of an avatar, such as a swamp. For example, a terrain object may include an object that increases the movement speed of an avatar, such as an ice sheet. As an example, a terrain object may include an object that affects the parameter values of an avatar. For example, a terrain object may include an object that reduces the hit points of an avatar, such as a poisonous swamp area. For example, a terrain object may include an object that increases the hit points of an avatar, such as a healing spring.

[Home screen]
14 , the home screen 40 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100 in the subpart. The home screen 40 may include various UI objects. As an example, the home screen 40 may include, as UI objects, an avatar window 41, a start match button 42, a group list button 43, an accessory change button 44, and a home button 45.

As an example, the avatar window 41 displays the user's own avatar 80. The appearance of the avatar 80 changes as the avatar's settings are changed. As an example, the appearance of the avatar 80 changes depending on the accessories that are equipped. For example, if a feather is equipped as the first accessory, the avatar window 41 displays the avatar 80 equipped with the feather 82. For example, if glasses are equipped as the second accessory, the avatar window 41 displays the avatar 80 equipped with the glasses 81.

As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the area where the start match button 42 is displayed as a match start operation. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the area where the group list button 43 is displayed as a group list display operation. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the area where the accessory change button 44 is displayed as a screen switching operation to the change screen 50. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the area where the home button 45 is displayed as a screen switching operation to the home screen 40.

When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives a group list display operation, it displays the waiting group list 46 based on the group list information received from the server 200. As an example, the waiting group list 46 may include multiple group panels 47 as an example of information regarding the status of each waiting group. Each group panel 47 may include user information 471 that identifies the name of the user who created the group. As an example, the user information 471 may be a character string indicating the user's name. Each group panel 47 may include number of characters in the group that can be identified. As an example, the number of characters in the group may be indicated by changing the color of the avatar icon. According to the example shown in FIG. 14 , the number of characters in the group information 472 indicates the maximum number of characters that can belong to a group based on the number of avatar icons. Furthermore, the number of characters in the group information 472 indicates the remaining number of characters that can belong to a group. Alternatively, the number of affiliations information 472 may be configured to show the same number of avatar icons as the number of affiliations the character has, or may be configured to show the number of affiliations the character has as a number.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion of the screen where the group panel 47 is displayed as a group selection operation that serves as an application to join the waiting group corresponding to that group panel 47. As already explained, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts the group selection operation, it displays the matching screen 60 on the monitor 166.

[Accessory change screen]
15 , the accessory change screen 50 is displayed in a subpart on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100. The change screen 50 may include various UI objects. As an example, the change screen 50 may include, as UI objects, an avatar window 51, a first accessory frame 52, a second accessory frame 53, and a home button 55.

As an example, the avatar window 51 displays the user's own avatar 80. The appearance of the avatar 80 changes as the avatar's settings are changed. As an example, the appearance of the avatar 80 changes as the accessories are changed. For example, if the first accessory is changed from a feather to a doll, the avatar window 41 displays the avatar 80 equipped with the doll.

As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion where the first accessory frame 52 is displayed as a first accessory display operation that instructs the display of a list of first accessories. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion where the second accessory frame 53 is displayed as a second accessory display operation that instructs the display of a list of second accessories. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion where the home button 55 is displayed as a screen switching operation to the home screen 40.

When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives a first accessory display operation, it displays an accessory list 56 on the monitor 166. In this case, the accessory list 56 may include one or more accessory panels 57 as an example of information indicating the first accessory. When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives a second accessory display operation, it displays an accessory list 56 on the monitor 166. In this case, the accessory list 56 may include one or more accessory panels 57 as an example of information indicating the second accessory. Each accessory panel 57 may include characters indicating the accessory name.

As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion where the accessory panel 57 is displayed as a change operation instructing the equipment of the accessory corresponding to that accessory panel 57. This change operation may include an instruction to equip a new accessory and an instruction to change an equipped accessory. As one example, the accessory list 56 may include a remove button 58. As one example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts a tap operation on the portion where the remove button 58 is displayed as a change operation instructing the equipment to be removed.

[Matching screen]
As shown in FIG. 16, the matching screen 60 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100 from when the creation of a group starts in step S218 until an opponent is determined in step S228.

The matching screen 60 may include various UI objects. The display content of the matching screen 60 may change depending on various information received from the server 200. The matching screen 60 may include avatar icons 61 indicating the avatars belonging to the group. When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 accepts an operation to start a match, in step S214, the processor 110 displays the matching screen 60 on the monitor 166. In this case, the processor 110 displays the avatar icons 61 indicating the avatars belonging to the group on the monitor 166.

Next, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the identification information notification in step S224, in step S226, it displays on the monitor 166 the identification information of the group that can be identified from this identification information notification. As an example, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays a first identification information panel 62 on the monitor 166. The first identification information panel 62 may include a character string indicating the name of the group to which the user's avatar belongs. The identification information displayed here is identification information generated by the server 200. Next, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays searching information 63, which indicates that it is searching for an opponent on the server 200, until it receives opponent information.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the opponent information in step S232, it displays the second identification information panel 64 on the monitor 166 in step S234. The second identification information panel 64 may include a character string indicating the identification information of the opponent group matched by the server 200. Note that the opponent group's identification information is identification information generated by the server 200, similar to the friendly group's identification information.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 then displays construction in progress information 65, indicating that a field is being constructed in the virtual space on the server 200, until a match start notification is received. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may also display a user panel 66 showing users belonging to each group who have been matched as opponents.

[Battle screen]
As shown in FIG. 18 , a battle screen 70 is displayed on the monitor 166 of the terminal 100 in the main part. The battle screen 70 may include various UI objects. For example, the battle screen 70 may include avatars 71 of each user belonging to the participating group. For example, the battle screen 70 includes an avatar 711 controlled by the user. For example, the battle screen 70 includes an avatar 712 of an opposing user. For example, the battle screen 70 may include a gauge 72 indicating the remaining hit points of each avatar 71. The battle screen 70 may include an identification information panel 73 indicating the identification information of the group. The battle screen 70 may include a first identification information panel 731 indicating the identification information of the group to which the user belongs. The battle screen 70 may include a second identification information panel 732 indicating the identification information of the opposing group. The battle screen 70 may include a scoreboard 74 indicating the scores achieved by each group.

As an example, in step S244, the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the avatar 71 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 above and behind the head of the avatar 71 in the virtual space, and displays on the monitor 166 the area that is captured by the virtual camera. Without being limited to this, the virtual camera on the battle screen 70 may be positioned as a first-person perspective looking at the field from the head of the avatar 71, or as a bird's-eye view looking at the field with the avatar 71 at the center.

The processor 110 of the terminal 100 places the avatars 71 of friendly users and the avatars 71 of enemy users in the virtual space according to the progress information received from the server 200. The processor 110 of the terminal 100 may display the avatars 71 of other users on the monitor 166 if the avatars 71 fall within the shooting range of the virtual camera. When the avatars 71 are displayed on the monitor 166, the avatars 71 perform actions according to the action information. Furthermore, when the processor 110 of the terminal 100 displays the avatar 71 of an enemy user, it displays a gauge 72 indicating the avatar's hit points on the monitor 166. As an example, the gauge 72 is placed above the head of the enemy user's avatar 71. The gauge 72 may also be placed above the head of the avatar 71 of the friendly user.

When the main part ends and the game moves to the sub-part, the monitor 166 of each terminal 100 displays battle result information indicating the results of each battle. As an example, the battle result information may include information such as an icon indicating the group that won the battle in the main part, an icon indicating the user with the most points, or an icon indicating the user with the most avatar kills. When the processor 110 of the terminal 100 receives the battle result notification in step S250, it displays the battle result information on the monitor 166 in step S252.

The effects of the present disclosure will be described.
(1) The identification information of a group is generated based on the identification information associated with each of the multiple specific characters belonging to the group. Therefore, the identification information of the group may differ depending on the characters that make up the group. This allows for diversification of the identification information of the group.

(2) A character is associated with first identification information and second identification information, and identification information is generated based on one or both of the first identification information and the second identification information. Note that, as an example, the first identification information is first phrase information. As an example, the second identification information is second phrase information. Therefore, the identification information of a group may be different even if the combination of characters belonging to the group is the same.

(4) When multiple pieces of specific information are associated with a specific character, the group's identification information is generated using the specific information selected by lottery. As an example, the specific information is word or phrase information. This allows for the incorporation of randomness, further diversifying the group's identification information.

(5) The group's identification information is generated by combining specific information associated with some of the characters belonging to the group. Users may feel happy when the specific information is reflected in the identification information.

(6) Group identification information is generated by combining specific information associated with a predetermined number of characters in the order in which participation applications are submitted. This can increase motivation to belong to a group.

(7) The initial specific information that constitutes the group's identification information is the specific information associated with the first character added to the group. This can increase motivation to belong to a group.

(8) The first specific information that makes up the group's identification information is a modifier, and therefore can have a significant impact on the overall impression of the identification information. Furthermore, the first specific information that makes up the group's identification information is the specific information associated with the first character to belong to the group. This can further increase motivation to belong to the group.

(9) Group identification information can be generated by combining information that is predetermined for a character and cannot be changed by the user, and information that can be changed at the user's command. Therefore, group identification information can reflect information unique to the character and information according to the user's preferences. This further strengthens membership.

(10) Characters are associated with modifiers and modified words as specific information. Therefore, by combining specific information, natural identification information can be generated.

(11) The identification information is generated by combining specific information with information different from the specific information, thereby enabling further diversification of the identification information.
(12) The main part does not begin until a certain number of users have joined the group. Therefore, users who have joined a waiting group may have to wait a long time for other users to join. In response to this, according to the present disclosure, specific information associated with characters who joined the group early is reflected in the group's identification information. This can increase users' motivation to join a waiting group and shorten users' waiting time.

(13) A waiting group with a certain number of characters can begin the main part if just a few more users join. This encourages users to apply to join waiting groups.

(14) According to the present disclosure, even if the characters belong to the same group, different identification information can be generated depending on the order in which they joined the group. According to the present disclosure, even if the characters belong to the same group, different identification information can be generated depending on the type of accessory they are equipped with. This increases the variety of identification information.

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.
In the identification information generation process (S220), the processor 210 of the server 200 may determine a combination pattern of the specific information. In the identification information generation process (S220, S424), the processor 210 may generate the group's identification information based on the determined combination pattern. As an example, the processor 210 may determine by lottery the order in which the extracted multiple pieces of phrase information are connected as the combination pattern of the specific information. When the processor 210 as the game control unit 201 executes step S220, the server 200 can function as a pattern determination means for determining the combination pattern of the specific information. Then, the information generation means generates the identification information by combining the specific information based on the combination pattern determined by the pattern determination means. According to this modified example, the group's identification information is generated based on the combination pattern determined by the pattern determination means. Therefore, the identification information of the group may be different even if the combination of characters belonging to the group is the same.

Furthermore, the processor 210 of the server 200 is not limited to generating identification information based on both the first identification information and the second identification information, but may generate identification information based on either the first identification information or the second identification information. For example, the processor 210 determines one of the first identification information or the second identification information as the combination pattern. The processor 210 may extract the determined identification information from the identification information associated with each avatar and generate identification information for the group.

- The first identification information may all be direct phrase information. Also, the second identification information may all be indirect phrase information. Conversely, the first identification information may all be indirect phrase information. Also, the second identification information may all be direct phrase information. Even with this configuration, the group identification information can be generated by combining direct phrase information and indirect phrase information. The first identification information and the second identification information may all be direct phrase information. In other words, the group identification information may be generated by combining direct phrase information. The first identification information and the second identification information may all be indirect phrase information. In other words, the group identification information may be generated by combining indirect phrase information.

In this way, the first identification information may be information that is predetermined for the character and cannot be changed by user instructions. The second identification information may be information that can be changed by user instructions. The group identification information may be generated by combining information that is predetermined for the character and cannot be changed by the user, and information that can be changed by user instructions. This allows the group identification information to reflect information unique to the character and information that corresponds to the user's preferences. This further strengthens membership.

- The first specific information is not limited to words that serve as modifiers. The first specific information may be words that serve as modified words. The first specific information may include words that serve as modifiers and words that serve as modified words. The second specific information is not limited to words that serve as modified words. The second specific information may be words that serve as modifiers. The second specific information may include words that serve as modifiers and words that serve as modified words.

- Indirect phrase information is not limited to phrase information associated with accessories. Indirect phrase information may be phrase information associated with weapons, armor, tools, etc., as item information that can be equipped to a character. Indirect phrase information may be phrase information associated with clothing, race, gender, hairstyle, hair color, skin color, eye color, etc., as appearance information that can be set for a character. In this way, indirect phrase information can be understood as phrase information associated with additional information added to a character. Item information and appearance information are examples of additional information. In this modified example, the additional information may include dedicated information exclusive to each character and common information common to multiple characters. In other words, dedicated information is information that can be associated with that character but cannot be associated with other characters. On the other hand, common information is information that can be associated with multiple characters.

For example, appearance information may be the dedicated information, and item information may be the common information. In this case, multiple pieces of clothing may be defined as the dedicated appearance information for each character. Each piece of clothing may be associated with word information that serves as a modifier as the first specifying information, and word information that serves as a modified word as the second specifying information. The game may also be designed so that one piece of clothing must be set as the character's dedicated appearance information. In other words, it is not possible for none of the dedicated information to be set, while it is possible for none of the common information to be set. However, it is not limited to this, and it is also possible for both the dedicated information and the common information to be set, or it is not necessary for one or both of the dedicated information to be set to be set.

Appearance information may include both dedicated information and common information, or may include only common information. Item information may include both dedicated information and common information, or may include only dedicated information. In other words, additional information may include only one or more dedicated information, only one or more common information, or both one or more dedicated information and one or more common information. In this modified example, direct phrase information may be omitted.

- The first and second specifying information are not limited to being understood in terms of whether they are modifiers or modified words. The first and second specifying information may be understood in terms of whether they are direct phrase information or indirect phrase information. The first and second specifying information may be understood in terms of whether they are dedicated information or common information among the additional information.

- Direct phrase information may include information that is predetermined for the character and cannot be changed by the user, and information that can be changed at the user's command. Indirect phrase information may include information that cannot be changed by the user, and information that can be changed at the user's command.

- One or both of the direct phrase information and the indirect phrase information may be phrases selected by the user from multiple options. - One or both of the direct phrase information and the indirect phrase information may be phrases that the user can freely set using an input device such as a keyboard.

- A single character may be associated with multiple pieces of first identification information. A single character may be associated with multiple pieces of second identification information. A single accessory may be associated with multiple pieces of first identification information. A single accessory may be associated with multiple pieces of second identification information.

- Characters that can be used as avatars may include characters that do not have associated identifying information. If the identified characters include a character that does not have associated identifying information, the processor 210 may generate identification information using identifying information associated with the next character in the order in which participation applications are received.

The main part is not limited to a battle between two groups. The main part may be a battle between one group and multiple groups, or a battle between multiple camps to which multiple groups belong. In the main part, a group containing only NPCs (non-player characters) may be matched as an opponent for a group containing a character controlled by a user. A group may contain NPCs (non-player characters) in addition to a character controlled by a user. In this case, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the joining waiting group was created, processor 210 may contain NPCs so that the number of characters belonging to the group reaches the upper limit.

- In the past, only groups with an upper limit on the number of characters could participate in the main part, but this is not limited to this. For example, when the number of characters reaches a specific number less than the upper limit, processor 210 may be configured to transition to the main part upon receiving a transition operation from the user. Preferably, the specific number is the same as the predetermined number of pieces of specific information required to generate identification information for the group. However, this is not a limitation, and the specific number may be a number less than the predetermined number. If the number of characters does not reach the predetermined number at the time the transition operation is performed, processor 210 may supplement the specific information that is insufficient to generate identification information for the group. As an example, processor 210 may generate identification information using specific information selected by lottery from multiple pieces of supplemental specific information.

- The identification information generation process (S220) is not limited to being performed at the timing of transitioning from a sub-part to a main part. For example, if a group is to be created in a sub-part, the group's identification information may be generated in the sub-part.

- The specific characters are not limited to a predetermined number of characters in order of the earliest accepted participation applications. The specific characters may be a predetermined number of characters in order of the latest accepted participation applications. Alternatively, the specific characters may be a predetermined number of characters determined by lottery, regardless of the accepted participation application order.

- The group's identification information is not limited to the group name. The identification information may also be a symbol, insignia, emblem, or flag. In this case, the identification information may be generated by combining symbols, figures, letters, numbers, patterns, and colors associated with the character as specific information. The group's identification information is not limited to combining or connecting phrase information. The group's identification information may also be generated by mixing, overlapping, or arranging specific information in a specified direction. In other words, generating a group's identification information based on multiple pieces of specific information does not mean determining an identification information that is pre-associated with a combination of multiple pieces of specific information, but rather means creating the group's identification information by combining multiple pieces of specific information, etc.

- In the identification information generation process (S220), the processor 210 of the server 200 may determine the type of specific information extracted and determine the specific information with a winning probability according to the proportion of the specific information. As an example, if there is a first number of specific characters equipped with a specific accessory, the probability of winning the phrase information associated with the specific accessory may be higher than when there is a second number that is less than the first number.

- In the identification information generation process (S220), if the extracted specific information is a specific combination, the processor 210 of the server 200 may generate group identification information in a manner different from the identification information generation process. For example, if the specific information is a specific combination, the processor 210 may assign identification information associated with the specific combination rather than combining the specific information to generate identification information.

- The identification information generation process (S220) is not limited to the process of generating identification information for a group in the main part. The target group for which identification information is generated may also be a group that can be created in a sub-part. As an example, such a group may be a guild, clan, or team to which a user belongs for a specific purpose. The group may be a group of friends in a game, or a group whose purpose is communication in a game.

- The identification information generation process (S220) is not limited to being a process for generating group identification information to be used in a game. In other words, the information processing system 10 is not limited to being a system for providing a game. The program is not limited to being a program for providing a game. For example, the identification information generation process may be targeted at a group in which users can use characters and which receives services other than the game. As an example, the group may be a group in which multiple users chat, or a group in which users with specific preferences or purposes interact.

- The above-described processes and the order of execution of steps are merely examples and are not limited to these. The above-described processes and the order of execution of steps can be changed as desired without departing from the scope of the embodiment and modified examples.

- One or more modules or functions provided by the terminal 100 and the server 200 may be realized by circuits such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or an MCU (Micro Control Unit).

- One or more modules or functions of the terminal 100 and the server 200 may be implemented by software using a processor. The computer 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.).

- In the above-described embodiments and modifications, some or all of the processes and steps executed by the processor 210 of the server 200 as the game control unit 201 may be executed by the processor 110 of the terminal 100 as the game control unit 101. In the above-described embodiments and modifications, some or all of the processes and steps executed by the processor 110 of the terminal 100 as the game control unit 101 may be executed by the processor 210 of the server 200 as the game control unit 201. In other words, all of the processes and steps described in the embodiments and modifications may be executed by the processor 210 of the server 200 or by the processor 110 of the terminal 100.

Any specific processing and steps among the processing and steps described in the embodiments and modifications may be executed by the processor 210 of the server 200, and any processing and steps other than the specific processing and steps among the processing and steps described in the embodiments and modifications may be executed by the processor 110 of the terminal 100. In other words, in the information processing system 10, the computer may be composed of one or more terminals 100 and one or more servers 200. The various means and functions realized by the processor 210 of the server 200 may be realized entirely by the processor 110 of the terminal 100, or any part may be realized by the processor 210 of the server 200 and the remainder may be realized by the processor 110 of the terminal 100.

The various means and functions realized by the game control unit 201 are not limited to being configured by a single processor 210, but may be configured by multiple processors included in one server 200 or multiple servers 200. The various means realized by the game control unit 101 and display control unit 104 are not limited to being configured by a single processor 110, but may be configured by multiple processors included in one terminal 100 or multiple terminals 100. Furthermore, the various means may be configured by one or multiple processors included in one or multiple terminals 100 and one or multiple servers 200. In this way, a computer may be configured by one or more terminals 100, one or more servers 200, or may be configured to include one or more terminals 100 and one or more servers 200.

- When the terminal 100 executes all of the processes and steps described in the embodiment and modified examples, the terminal 100 may be configured not to communicate with other devices when executing these processes and steps. Furthermore, the computer is not limited to being composed of one or both of the terminal 100 and the server 200. The computer may also be a device that does not communicate with other devices. As an example, the computer may be a stationary device for home or business use, or may be a portable device.

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 program that causes a computer (100, 200) to function as a group creation means (S218, 101, 201) that creates a group to which multiple characters belong, and an information generation means (S220, 101, 201) that generates identification information for the group based on specific information associated with each of multiple specific characters among the characters that belong to the group.

(Appendix 2) The program described in Appendix 1, wherein the specific information includes first specific information and second specific information, and the information generation means (S220, 101, 201) generates the identification information based on one or both of the first specific information and the second specific information.

(Appendix 3) A program as described in Appendix 1 or 2, which causes the computer (100, 200) to function as a mode determination means (S220, 101, 201) that determines the combination mode of the specific information, and the information generation means (S220, 101, 201) generates the identification information by combining the specific information based on the combination mode determined by the mode determination means.

(Appendix 4) The program according to any one of Appendices 1 to 3, which causes the computer (100, 200) to function as information selection means (S220, 101, 201) that, when there are multiple pieces of specific information associated with the specific character, selects the specific information from the multiple pieces of specific information by lottery, and the information generation means (S220, 101, 201) generates the identification information by combining multiple pieces of specific information including the specific information selected by the information selection means.

(Appendix 5) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of specific characters are a predetermined number of characters belonging to the group that is less than the upper limit of the number of characters in the group.

(Appendix 6) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 5, which causes the computer (100, 200) to function as an application receiving means (S216, S326, 101, 201) that receives an application to join the group, and the group creation means (S218, 101, 201) assigns the character to the group based on the application to join, and the plurality of specific characters is the predetermined number of characters in the order in which the application to join was received.

(Appendix 7) The program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, wherein the specific information is phrase information, the information generation means (S220, 101, 201) combines multiple pieces of phrase information to generate a group name as the identification information, and the first piece of phrase information constituting the group name is phrase information associated with the character first assigned to the group.

(Appendix 8) A program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 7, in which the specific information is phrase information, the information generation means (S220, 101, 201) combines multiple pieces of phrase information to generate a group name as the identification information, and the first piece of phrase information constituting the group name is a modifier.

(Appendix 9) A program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 8, wherein the first specific information is information predetermined for a character and is information that cannot be changed by user instructions, and the second specific information is information that can be changed by user instructions.

(Appendix 10) A program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 9, wherein the first specific information is a word that becomes a modifier, and the second specific information is a word that becomes a modified word.
(Supplementary Note 11) The program according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein the information generating means generates the identification information by combining information different from the specific information.

(Appendix 12) An information processing system (10) comprising: a group creation means (S218, 101, 201) for creating a group to which multiple characters belong; and an information generation means (S220, 101, 201) for generating identification information for the group based on specific information associated with each of multiple specific characters among the characters belonging to the group.

(Appendix 13) A program that causes a computer (100, 200) to function as: association means (205) that associates specific information with each of a plurality of specific characters, which may be some or all of a plurality of characters; group creation means (S218, 101, 201) that can create a group to which the plurality of specific characters belong; and information generation means (S220, 101, 201) that generates identification information for the group based on the specific information associated with each of the specific characters belonging to the group.

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 same applies to procedures. 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...Information processing system 20...Network 40...Home screen 41...Avatar window 42...Start match button 43...Group list button 44...Change accessory button 45...Home button 46...Group list 47...Group panel 50...Change screen 51...Avatar window 52...First accessory frame 53...Second accessory frame 55...Home button 56...Accessory list 57...Accessory panel 58...Remove button 60...Matching screen 61...Avatar icon 62...First identification information panel 63...Searching information 64...Second identification information panel 65...Information under construction 66...User panel 70...Battle screen 71...Avatar 72...Gauge 73...Identification information panel 74...Scoreboard 80...Avatar 81...Glasses 82...Wing 83...Doll 100...Terminal 101...Game control unit 104...Display control unit 105...Memory unit 106...Communication unit 107...Input/output unit 110...Processor 120...Memory 130...Storage 140...Communication interface 150...Input/output interface 160...Microphone 162...Speaker 164...Touch screen 166...Monitor 167...Touch sensor 180...Communication bus 190...Input/output device 200...Server 201...Game control unit 205...Memory unit 206...Communication unit 207...Input/output unit 210...Processor 220...Memory 230...Storage 240...Communication interface 250...Input/output interface 280...Communication bus 471...User information 472...Affiliation number information 711...Avatar 712...Avatar 731...First identification information panel 732...Second identification information panel

Claims (10)

Computer,
A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
and functioning as an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group ;
the identification information includes first identification information and second identification information,
The information generating means is a program that generates the identification information based on one or both of the first identification information and the second identification information . Computer,
A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
and a mode determining means for determining a combination mode of the specific information,
The information generating means is a program that generates the identification information by combining the specific information based on the combination mode determined by the mode determining means. Computer,
A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
when there are multiple pieces of specific information associated with the specific character, the information selection means selects the specific information by lottery from the multiple pieces of specific information;
The information generating means is a program that generates the identification information by combining a plurality of pieces of specific information including the specific information selected by the information selecting means. Computer,
A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
and functioning as an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
The program wherein the plurality of specific characters are a predetermined number of characters belonging to the group that is less than the upper limit number of the group. Computer,
A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
and functioning as an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
The information generation means is a program that generates the identification information by combining the specific information with fixed information that is different from the specific information and is not associated with each of the multiple specific characters . A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group ;
the identification information includes first identification information and second identification information,
The information generating means generates the identification information based on one or both of the first identification information and the second identification information . A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
a mode determining means for determining a combination mode of the specific information,
The information generating means generates the identification information by combining the specific information based on the combination mode determined by the mode determining means. A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
and an information selection means for selecting the specific information by lottery from among the plurality of pieces of specific information when there are the specific characters associated with the plurality of pieces of specific information;
The information generating means generates the identification information by combining a plurality of pieces of specific information including the specific information selected by the information selecting means. A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
An information processing system in which the plurality of specific characters are a predetermined number of characters belonging to the group that is less than the upper limit number of the group. A group creation means for creating a group to which multiple characters belong;
an information generating means for generating identification information of the group based on specific information associated with each of a plurality of specific characters among the characters belonging to the group;
The information generation means is an information processing system that generates the identification information by combining the specific information with fixed information that is different from the specific information and is not associated with each of the multiple specific characters.