JP7804202B2 - Information processing device, information processing method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program.

Conventionally, in computer games such as online games, a lottery is held in response to a user's request, and game content selected by the lottery (for example, a character or item usable in the game) is awarded to the user.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that there are free lotteries and paid lotteries in which intangible assets (game media) such as items can be acquired, and that paid lotteries have a higher probability of acquiring game media that are more valuable to users than free lotteries, and that different game media can be acquired in free and paid lotteries.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-193878

However, in a lottery in which different game media are awarded in a free lottery and a paid lottery, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a user cannot obtain the game media awarded as a result of a paid lottery unless they enter a paid lottery by paying a fee or other means. In this way, if the routes for obtaining game media, i.e., the methods by which users can obtain game media, are limited, there is a risk that the entertainment value of the game will be significantly reduced.

The present invention aims to provide an information processing device, information processing method, and program that allows users to obtain game content through multiple methods, thereby improving the entertainment value of games.

An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first providing unit that provides a first game medium to a user in response to playing a first game that can be executed by consuming a first value owned by the user, a second providing unit that provides a second game medium to the user in response to playing a second game that can be executed without consuming the first value, and a first conversion unit that converts the second game medium into the first game medium by the user consuming a second value.

One aspect of the present invention allows users to obtain game content through multiple methods, improving the entertainment value of the game.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system including an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game medium conversion screen. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functions of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of user information. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of game content information. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of first set information. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of second set information. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first game medium provision process. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a second game medium provision process. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first conversion process. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a second conversion process. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a first recommendation process. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a second recommendation process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An information processing device, an information processing method, and a program according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.
It should be noted that the embodiment described below is merely an example given to facilitate understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. That is, the present invention may be modified or improved from the embodiment described below without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the present invention also includes equivalents thereof.

Furthermore, the screen examples described in this specification and drawings are merely examples, and the screen configuration and design, content of the displayed information, and GUI (Graphical User Interface), etc., can be freely designed according to the system design specifications and user preferences, and can be changed as appropriate.

<About the game according to this embodiment>
The communication system shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter referred to as information processing system S) is a communication system including an information processing device (hereinafter referred to as server 10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and provides a game to a user (hereinafter referred to as user) who is a player of the game.

A game is content that a user plays by operating a user terminal 12 while viewing a game screen on the user terminal 12 used for gameplay. In this embodiment, it is an online game (electronic game) provided using the information processing system S. Online games include browser games that use a web browser, social games provided on SNS (Social Networking Service), games that can be played by downloading dedicated application software such as mobile games, and regularly updated online games such as play-by-web (PBW). There are no particular limitations on the genre (classification) of games.

In this embodiment, when a user performs game play operations on the user terminal 12, the user terminal 12 receives game progression data distributed from the game provider's server computer, i.e., the server 10. The user terminal 12 outputs video and audio corresponding to the received data, and the user progresses through the game while checking the output video and audio. The user terminal 12 also transmits data indicating the user's operations to the server 10, and the server 10 transmits game progression data corresponding to the user's operations. This type of data transmission and reception between the server 10 and the user terminal 12 is repeated until the user finishes playing the game.

In a game, users can obtain (acquire) and possess (own) game media, and use or consume the game media they possess. Game media are game objects that users can use to progress through the game, including playing quests and other game activities, and include characters, items, cards, and avatars used in the game. Game media also includes in-game currency, such as points, coins, gold, or stones, which have value that can be exchanged for other game media such as items or characters in the game, or consumed to play games such as quests or lotteries. In-game currency also includes paid in-game currency that can be obtained by paying a fee, as described below, and free in-game currency that can be obtained without paying a fee.

Each game medium (excluding in-game currency) has its own unique personality, and each game medium is assigned a name, rarity, attributes, appearance, and various parameters that indicate abilities (values related to level, stamina, attack power, special abilities, etc.). These parameters are indicators that affect the progress of the game, and include those expressed numerically, those expressed as ranks written in letters such as "A, B, C...", and those expressed by indicators such as gauges. Furthermore, parameters include those that change as the game progresses, and those that remain constant and unchanging regardless of the progress of the game. Hereinafter, parameters that change as the game progresses will be simply referred to as parameters, unless otherwise specified.

Within the game, users play game units called quests. Quests are played with the goal of clearing them (in other words, meeting the clearing conditions). In this embodiment, multiple quests are set, each with different content (e.g., attributes, difficulty level, enemy characters that appear, clearing conditions, clearing rewards, etc.). Quests are also categorized into multiple categories, such as quests that are always available, quests that are held on a pre-set schedule by day or time (limited-time quests with a set playable period), and quests that have special play conditions (e.g., level XX or higher). Each quest has one or more stages depending on the difficulty level. Therefore, when selecting a quest to play, users select any quest from multiple quests, and if the selected quest has multiple stages, they select the stage according to their desired difficulty level. When users clear a quest, they can obtain game content such as a character or item associated with the cleared quest as a clearing reward. Note that a predetermined value, such as in-game currency, may be consumed when playing a quest.

In addition to being able to obtain game media as rewards for completing quests, users can also obtain game media through a lottery game (hereinafter simply referred to as a lottery), which uses a random item distribution system known as gacha. A lottery is a component of a game and one of the in-game events through which game media can be obtained. It is conducted in response to a user's request for game media (lottery application) while playing the game. Specifically, a lottery is a mechanism that utilizes chance to provide users with game media such as items. Multiple game media are provided as candidates, and one or a predetermined number of game media are selected randomly or by a predetermined probability (winning probability) from a set to which the multiple candidate game media belong, and the selected game media (hereinafter referred to as the "predetermined game media") are granted to the user. Note that in this embodiment, a predetermined value such as in-game currency must be consumed when applying for the lottery, but the lottery may also be conducted without consuming the predetermined value.

Game media awarded to users as a result of the lottery include rare game media (rare items) that are provided with the purpose of attracting users and that may be the highlight of the lottery. In other words, the set includes game media of different rarities, and rare items appear in the lottery with a low probability (for example, a 1-2% probability), and users primarily enter the lottery with the goal of obtaining those rare items. Therefore, generally, if a rare item is selected in the lottery, it is considered a "win," and if a rare item is not selected in the lottery, it is considered a "lose."

Rare items are game media that are extremely difficult to obtain due to limitations on the number of items available, the period of availability, or the conditions for availability, or due to low odds of winning; they are highly valuable and have little circulation in the game or past usage by users. However, in addition to the above game media, rare items also include game media such as powerful characters with high parameters, game media such as characters with characteristics that are suited to clearing each quest, game media such as useful items that have a significant effect such as changing abilities when used, or game media such as characters or items that are in high demand (high popularity) among users, regardless of the odds of winning.

In addition to lotteries that are held continuously, there are also time-limited lotteries with set periods, and various of these lotteries are held as the game progresses. In other words, lotteries occur sequentially over time, and users can enter those lotteries by submitting lottery applications during the lottery period. The winning probability of each candidate game medium, as well as the type and number of game mediums (including rare items) included in the set, may vary depending on the lottery period. Therefore, depending on the lottery period, certain game mediums may have a high winning probability and be more likely to be selected as the specified game medium, or certain game mediums may not be included at all in the set as candidates.

Users are assigned a rank (level), and the user's rank improves based on their game play history (number of logins, game play time, number of characters owned, number of quests played or cleared, etc.) or the amount of money spent. As a user's rank increases, they will be able to play special quests or draws, they will be able to own more game media, and the parameters of their game media will be easier to improve, which will bring about advantageous effects for the user when playing the game.

Charging refers to a user paying a game usage fee to a game provider or the like for the purposes of purchasing and obtaining in-game currency, converting game content as described below, and playing the game under other special conditions. In other words, in this embodiment, users can generally enjoy all functions free of charge, but some functions can be restricted and used by paying a specified usage fee. In addition, various other conditions may be set to give paying users who have paid a specified usage fee an advantage when playing the game. For example, paying users may be able to obtain hard-to-obtain game content depending on the amount of their payment. Note that this usage fee may be a pay-as-you-go system, or, like a subscription, a one-time payment that remains valid for the user for a certain period of time (e.g., one month or one year).

In this embodiment, the game media includes a first game media and a second game media that are obtained by different methods (acquisition routes). By playing a first game that can be executed by consuming a first value, a user can obtain the first game media depending on the results of playing the first game, and by playing a second game that can be executed without consuming a first value, a user can obtain the second game media depending on the results of playing the second game. Below, a lottery will be used as an example of the first game and the second game. Note that the first game and the second game may be games in which game media can be obtained, and are not limited to lotteries, but may also be quests. For example, both the first game and the second game may be quests, or one of the first game and the second game may be a lottery and the other a quest.

The first game is a lottery (paid lottery) played by consuming a first value as a predetermined value when applying for the lottery. The first value usable in the first game is an asset that has the potential to obtain a first game medium, such as in-game currency that can be obtained for a fee. In the lottery for the first game, a first game medium equivalent to a rare item (winner) or a game medium other than the first game medium (loser) is selected as the predetermined game medium from among multiple game media belonging to a first set. Note that the first game medium is a rare game medium among the multiple game media belonging to the first set, and includes game media that can only be obtained in the first game.

The second game is a lottery (free lottery) that can be played without consuming the first value as a predetermined value. The second game may be played by consuming a value other than the first value, i.e., a third value, when applying for the lottery, or it may be played without consuming the predetermined value. The third value that can be used in the second game is an asset that has the potential to obtain the second game medium, such as in-game currency that can be obtained free of charge through login bonuses, watching video advertisements, or rewards for clearing the game. Therefore, the first value, which is a paid in-game currency, is relatively more valuable than the third value, which is a free in-game currency. In the lottery for the second game, a second game medium corresponding to a rare item (win) or a game medium other than the second game medium (lose) is selected as the predetermined game medium from among the multiple game media belonging to the second set. The second game medium is a rare game medium among the multiple game media belonging to the second set, and includes game media that can only be obtained in the second game. Furthermore, in the first game and the second game, the first game medium and the second game medium are different game media, but all or some of the other game media (losing game media) included in the first set and the second set may be game media that are common between the first set and the second set.

In this embodiment, the first game medium and the second game medium are different game media, and the first game medium is a game medium with higher rarity or parameters than the second game medium. In other words, because the first value is more valuable than the third value, the first game medium obtained by consuming the first value will also be more valuable than the second game medium obtained by consuming the third value. Furthermore, even if the first game medium and the second game medium are the same type of game medium, the parameters indicating their performance, etc. may differ, such as when the first game medium is a finished product and the second game medium is defective. For example, if the first game medium is a "helmet (finished product)," the second game medium may be a "helmet with a missing part (defective product)." Note that although the parameters will be lower than those of a finished product, the defective product may still be usable as is.

In this embodiment, the second game medium can be converted into a first game medium of higher value by consuming the second value. For example, repairing a defective product to make it a finished product also constitutes conversion. The second value consumed when converting the second game medium into the first game medium includes currency that has exchange value for goods or services in general society, but may be the same type of value as the first value, or a portion of the first value may overlap with the second value. For example, both the first value and the second value may include in-game currency that can be obtained for a fee by charging. Consumption of the second value also includes both direct conversion of the game medium by charging using cash, electronic money, a credit card, a prepaid card, etc. in response to a charging request, and indirect conversion of the game medium using paid in-game currency purchased by charging using cash, electronic money, a credit card, a prepaid card, etc.

Note that in this embodiment, the second value required for conversion is limited to currency or paid in-game currency, and consuming second value does not include consuming game media such as characters and items. Consuming such game media to obtain a first game medium from a second game medium, i.e., obtaining a first game medium using a character or item, etc., which is the second game medium, and another character or item, etc., which is a third game medium that serves as material, is called synthesis. Furthermore, unlike conversion, synthesis does not require consuming second value, but the third game media that can be used as material are limited to third game media that have been previously associated with the second game medium. Note that the third game media that serve as material in synthesis may be a finished product or a defective product.

In this embodiment, the amount (monetary amount) of the second value that needs to be consumed during conversion is not always constant, but varies according to, for example, the following conditions (a)-(h).

(a) Determine based on the number of times the user has played the first game.
Specifically, the number of times the user plays the first game, i.e., the number of lottery applications for the first game, is counted, and the amount of second value is determined based on that number. For example, if the first game medium cannot be obtained despite repeatedly playing the first game, the amount of second value required for conversion is reduced according to the number of plays. Furthermore, at this time, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the amount of second value may be returned to a default value, such as an initial setting value before the change, i.e., the amount of second value may be increased. Conversely, the amount of second value required may be increased or may be changed randomly as the number of times the first game is played increases.

Note that examples of predetermined conditions being met include when the game medium is converted (by the first conversion unit 35 described below), when the number of times the game medium has been converted reaches a predetermined number (e.g., 5 times), when a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 48 hours) has passed, when the first game has been played a predetermined number of times (e.g., 10 times), or when the game medium has been used a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times), etc.

(b) The timing of the conversion is determined based on whether or not the first game is being played (the first game media is being provided).
Specifically, after the first game period ends, other first games may be held or other powerful game media may be newly released over time, causing the importance of the first game media to decline relatively, or the performance of the first game media to weaken relatively, resulting in a decrease in demand for the first game media. Therefore, the amount of second value is reduced over time after the first game period ends. On the other hand, during the first game period, there is a possibility that the first game media can be obtained by playing the first game, so the amount of second value may be reduced. Outside the first game period, the first game cannot be played and there is no route to obtain the first game media, so the amount of second value may be increased. Note that during the first game period, the first game media may be obtainable only by playing the first game.

(c) Determine based on the number of plays by a plurality of users who played the first game (the number of lottery applications executed by all game-playing users) or the number of users who played the first game.
Specifically, the number of plays of the first game, i.e., the number of lottery applications for the entire game (total number of plays), which indicates demand for the first game medium, is measured, and the amount of the second value is determined based on that number. For example, if the total number of plays of the first game is a predetermined number (e.g., 10,000 times) or more for the entire game, it is determined that demand for the first game medium is high, and the amount of the second value is increased. In particular, it is preferable to measure the number of lottery applications after the provision period of the first game medium has ended, and determine the amount of the second value after the provision period of the first game medium has ended.

(d) Determined based on the attributes of the second game medium or play conditions such as usage status, number of uses, or frequency of use.
A second game medium that is used frequently is likely to be a game medium that the user feels attached to and has a high demand for conversion, so the amount of second value is reduced to stimulate the user's desire to convert it. On the other hand, since a second game medium that is used frequently is likely to be converted to a first game medium in the first place due to the user's attachment to it, the amount of second value may be increased. Note that the number of uses may be calculated by directly counting the number of times the game medium is brought into a quest and the game is played, or, if the number of uses cannot be counted and the usage situation cannot be grasped, the number of uses may be calculated by determining that the second game medium is being used based on changes in the attributes, parameters, etc. of the second game medium.

(e) Determine based on the number of conversions.
Specifically, the number of conversions over a predetermined period (e.g., monthly) is counted, and the amount of second value is increased based on the number of conversions. For example, by increasing the amount of second value, the number of users who acquire the first game medium is reduced, and the game balance is maintained by controlling the first game medium so that it does not increase excessively throughout the game. In this case, the amount of second value may be returned to its original state the following month. Note that the number of conversions may be the number of conversions for an individual user or the number of conversions for all game-playing users.

(f) Determined based on the number of first game media used in the game (the number owned by all game-playing users) or the number of users who own the first game media.
Specifically, the number of first game media or the number of users who own the first game media is counted, and the amount of second value is increased based on that number. For example, by increasing the amount of second value, the number of users who acquire the first game media is reduced, and the first game media is controlled so as not to increase excessively throughout the game, thereby maintaining game balance.

(g) Determined based on the total number of first game media owned by the user.
Specifically, for users who own a large amount of first game media, the amount of second value is increased to prevent already strong users from becoming even stronger, thereby maintaining game balance.

(h) The determination is based on whether or not the user owns the first game medium.
Specifically, since first game media not owned by a user are likely to be game media with high demand for conversion, the amount of second value may be reduced to stimulate the user's desire to convert them. On the other hand, since first game media not owned by a user are likely to be converted in the first place, the amount of second value may be increased.

In addition, in this embodiment, conversion of second game media to first game media may be restricted according to the same conditions exemplified in (a)-(h) above. Specific restriction methods include direct restriction by preventing users from converting game media, as well as indirect restriction by increasing the amount of second value required for conversion to discourage users from paying.

For example, conversion of game media may be restricted until the first game is played within a predetermined period (e.g., within two hours), and the restriction on conversion of game media may be lifted if the first game has been played, or if the first game media has not been obtained despite the first game being played. Conversion of game media may be restricted during the first game period, and the restriction on conversion of game media may be lifted outside the first game period. Conversion of game media may be restricted if the number of times multiple users have played the first game, or the number of users who have played the first game, exceeds a predetermined number (e.g., 10,000 times) or a predetermined number (e.g., 10,000 people). Conversion of game media may be restricted until the second game media is used. Conversion of game media may be restricted if the number of conversions exceeds a predetermined number (e.g., 10,000 times). Conversion of game media may be restricted if the number of first game media used in the game, or the number of users owning the first game media, exceeds a predetermined number (e.g., 10,000 units or 10,000 people). Conversion of game media may be restricted if the total number of first game media owned by users exceeds a predetermined number (e.g., 100 units). The system checks whether the user owns the first game medium, i.e., if the user owns the first game medium, it restricts the conversion of the game medium, and if the user does not own the first game medium, it lifts the restriction on the conversion of the game medium.

Furthermore, in order to motivate users to exchange game media and stimulate exchange, it is advisable to recommend exchange of game media to users who meet certain conditions. Specifically, users who do not possess the first game media, or who do not possess a certain amount of first value and are therefore unable to play the first game, are recommended to exchange the second game media for the first game media after obtaining the second game media. Note that not possessing the certain amount of first value includes not only cases where the amount of first value owned is zero, but also cases where the amount of first value required to play the first game is not possessed.

Now, referring to Figure 2, we will explain the screen displayed on the user terminal 12 when converting game media. Figure 2 is an example of a screen displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by the user during game play, which accepts conversion instructions from the user.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game medium conversion screen G is a screen transitioned to from a second game medium designation screen (not shown) (a screen on which the user designates the second game medium to be converted), and has a first game medium display area 51, a second game medium display area 52, and an amount display area 53. The first game medium display area 51 displays information about the first game medium after conversion from the second game medium, such as the appearance and parameters of the first game medium. The second game medium display area 52 displays information about the second game medium to be converted, such as the appearance and parameters of the second game medium. The amount display area 53 displays the amount of second value that needs to be consumed upon conversion, i.e., the required charge amount. In addition, a conversion button 54 is displayed on the game medium conversion screen G; the second game medium is converted into the first game medium by the user tapping this conversion button 54, etc.

In addition, the game of this embodiment allows users to play alone, and also allows multiple users to operate their own user terminals 12 to simultaneously play a common quest, in what is known as multiplayer (hereinafter referred to as cooperative play). Cooperative play is carried out through the communication functions of each user's user terminal 12, and once a cooperative relationship is formed, the progress of play is synchronized between the users playing cooperatively. Cooperative play may be either a cooperative play game in which multiple users cooperate, or a competitive game in which players compete against each other. Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the members who play cooperatively, and the user may play cooperatively with other users who have a friendship relationship with the user and who have mutually approved each other (hereinafter referred to as friends). In cooperative play, the user can cooperate with friends to progress through the game and can borrow characters owned by friends.

<Configuration of information processing device and user terminal according to this embodiment>
Next, the configurations of an information processing device and a user terminal 12 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The information processing device according to this embodiment is configured by a computer for distributing game data, specifically a server computer (hereinafter referred to as server 10). The server 10 is an example of a computer, and as shown in FIG. 1 , is communicatively connected to a plurality of user terminals 12 via a network 14, and together with the user terminals 12, forms an information processing system S for games. The network 14 is a communication line network consisting of, for example, the Internet or a mobile communication network, and may include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), an intranet, Ethernet (registered trademark), etc.

In the information processing system S of this embodiment, the game progresses through cooperation between the server 10 and the user terminal 12 due to the above configuration. Specifically, part of the game progression processing is performed on the server 10 side, and part of the graphics processing, etc. is executed on the user terminal 12. For example, the server 10 side executes a program containing certain rules, logic, and algorithms. Meanwhile, the user terminal 12 side synchronizes with the server 10 and progresses the game using the same rules, logic, and algorithms as the program executed on the server 10.

The server 10 is an example of an "information processing device" of the present invention, and is a computer that performs various information processing related to the game progress, such as generating and transmitting and receiving data necessary for the game progress; more specifically, in this embodiment, it is an SNS server. The server 10 may be composed of a single computer, or multiple computers distributed in parallel. The server 10 may also be a server computer for an ASP (Application Service Provider), SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), or IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service). In this case, a series of information processing steps related to the game progress (excluding information input and display) are performed by the server 10, and the user terminal 12 only needs to input information to be passed to the server 10 and display information distributed from the server 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, the server 10 has hardware devices including a processor 21, memory 22, a communications interface 23, and storage 24, which are electrically connected via a bus 25. The server 10 also has installed thereon software such as an operating system (OS) and a dedicated program for processing information related to the game. These programs correspond to the "program" of the present invention. When the processor 21 operates in accordance with the program, the server 10 functions as the information processing device of the present invention and executes a series of processes related to the progress of the game. The program of the present invention may be obtained by reading it from a computer-readable recording medium, or may be obtained (downloaded) via a network 14 such as the Internet or an intranet.

The processor 21 may be configured as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), MCU (Micro Controller Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), etc.

Memory 22 may be composed of semiconductor memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory).

The communication interface 23 may be configured, for example, as a network interface card or a communication interface board. The data communication standard used by the communication interface 23 is not particularly limited, and examples include wireless LAN communication based on Wi-Fi (registered trademark), communication using 3G to 5G or later generation mobile communication systems, or communication based on LTE (Long Term Evolution).

The storage 24 may be configured with flash memory, HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), FD (Flexible Disc), MO disk (Magneto-Optical disc), CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), SD card (Secure Digital card), or USB memory (Universal Serial Bus memory). The storage 24 may be built into the server 10 or attached to the server main body in an external format. Furthermore, the storage 24 may be configured with an external computer (e.g., a database server) connected to the server main body so that it can communicate with it. Distributed ledger technology such as blockchain may be used as a technology for recording various data in order to prevent unauthorized data tampering, etc.

The server 10 distributes information necessary for the game's progress to each user, and also collects and stores information from each user. The information stored by the server 10 includes information about each user (e.g., user identification information and information about game play history), and information about the game (e.g., game media information such as characters and items, and quest information). The server 10 also performs various other information processing related to the game's progress.

User terminals 12 are client terminals operated by users to play the game, and may be configured, for example, as personal computers, smartphones, mobile phones, tablet devices, game consoles, television sets capable of inputting information, and wearable devices. Note that for convenience of illustration, Figure 1 shows four user terminals 12, but of course, in reality, there will be as many user terminals 12 as there are users playing the game.

The user terminal 12 receives data for game progression from the server 10, and displays images (video) represented by the data on the user terminal 12's display or on a display device such as a TV connected to the user terminal 12, and outputs audio from speakers, etc. In other words, in this embodiment, the user terminal 12 functions as a display unit and an audio output unit. For example, the user terminal 12 displays a quest play screen and a lottery play screen (not shown), as well as a game media conversion screen G as shown in Figure 2.

The user terminal 12 also accepts user operations performed while playing the game and transmits information corresponding to the operation to the server 10. For example, the user performs a lottery play operation to play a lottery, i.e., a grant request operation (lottery application operation) to request the granting of game media, a conversion instruction operation to convert the second game media into the first game media, and a combination instruction operation to combine the second game media with a third game media as material, on the user terminal 12, and transmits information based on these operations to the server 10. In addition to the above operations, the user also performs a quest designation operation to designate a quest to play from among playable quests, and a quest play operation to play the designated quest, on the user terminal 12.

<Functions of the information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention>
The configuration of the server 10, which is an information processing device according to this embodiment, will now be described from a functional perspective. As shown in FIG. 3 , the server 10 includes a memory unit 30, an information acquisition unit 31, a display control unit 32, a first provision unit 33, a second provision unit 34, a first conversion unit 35, a second conversion unit 36, a first recommendation unit 37, a second recommendation unit 38, and a game progression unit 39. Of these, the memory unit 30 is implemented by the memory 22 or the storage 24, and the other functional units are implemented by cooperation between the hardware devices that make up the server 10 and programs installed on the server 10. Note that if the server 10 is configured with multiple computers, the above functions may be distributed, with each of the multiple computers performing a different function.
Each functional unit will be described in detail below.

(Storage part)
The storage unit 30 stores information necessary for playing the game, specifically, information about the user, information about the game media, information about a first set and a second set that are collections of multiple game media, etc. It also stores other information such as information about quests and information about lotteries.

As shown in Figure 4, information about users (user information) is stored for each user, with various pieces of information linked to identification information (such as an identification ID or game account name) that identifies each user. For example, user information items include the user's rank, the game media they own (first game media and second game media), the in-game currency they own (paid and free), a lottery history indicating the number of lottery applications and lottery results, a game media conversion history, and a billing history indicating the number of charges and total charges. User information may also include information other than the above, such as the user's personal information such as contact information, identification information of other users who are friends with them, and other game play history such as login date and time, number of logins, total game play time, number of quests played, number of quests completed, and number of times the game media has been used.

As shown in FIG. 5, information related to game media (game media information) is stored for each game medium, with various pieces of information linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each game medium. For example, game media information items include various parameters indicating the name, rarity, attributes, abilities, effects, etc.; the provision method for distinguishing the first game medium from the second game medium; the provision period; a usage history indicating the number of uses; a conversion history indicating the number of conversions; and, if there is associated game media that can be used as materials during synthesis, identification information indicating that game medium (third game medium). Here, the various parameters include not only current values but also initial values and upper limit values. The game media information may also include information other than the above, such as the appearance design, identification information indicating the user who owns the game media, and identification information indicating the quest associated as a reward for completion.

Information relating to the first set (first set information) is information in which multiple game media, including the first game medium, are associated, and in the lottery for the first game, a predetermined game medium is selected from among the game media belonging to this first set. As shown in FIG. 6, various information is linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each set, and is stored for each set. For example, items in the first set information include the duration of the first game (start date and time, end date and time), the amount of first value to be consumed, the first game medium corresponding to the winning combination, and other game media corresponding to the losing combination.

Information relating to the second set (second set information) is information in which multiple game media, including the second game medium, are associated, and in the lottery for the second game, a predetermined game medium is selected from the game media belonging to this second set. As shown in FIG. 7, various information is linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each set, and is stored for each set. For example, items in the second set information include the duration of the second game (start date and time and end date and time), the type and amount of value to be consumed, the second game medium corresponding to the winning combination, and other game media corresponding to the losing combination.

In addition, information about quests (not shown) (quest information) is stored for each quest, with various information such as the quest name, attributes, difficulty level, playable period, play conditions, type and number of enemy characters that appear, and rewards for clearing the quest linked to identification information (identification ID, etc.) that identifies each quest. Also, information about lotteries (lottery information) (not shown) is stored for each lottery, with various information such as the lottery name, duration, play conditions, and identification information indicating the associated group linked to identification information (identification ID, etc.) that identifies each lottery.

(Information acquisition department)
The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information (data) based on operations performed by the user on the user terminal 12 while playing the game by communicating with the user terminal 12. The information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 includes lottery application information based on a lottery application operation, conversion instruction information based on a conversion instruction operation, synthesis instruction information based on a synthesis instruction operation, quest designation information based on a quest designation operation, and quest play information based on a quest play operation. In addition to the above information, the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 also includes information based on various selections, designations, instructions, requests, commands, permission or denial, registration, and other input operations performed by the user at various scenes during the game.

(Display control unit)
During the game, the display control unit 32 controls the user's user terminal 12 to display information for game progression on the screen of the user terminal 12. Specifically, the display control unit 32 generates display data for displaying results of information processing by the first providing unit 33, second providing unit 34, first converting unit 35, second converting unit 36, first recommending unit 37, second recommending unit 38, and game progression unit 39 (described below), and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 via the network 14. For example, when the user converts the second game medium into the first game medium, the display control unit 32 causes the user terminal 12 to display a screen (game medium conversion screen G) reflecting the results of information processing by the first converting unit 35.

(First provision part)
The first providing unit 33 executes information processing in the first game, triggered by lottery application information for the first game medium acquired by the information acquiring unit 31 during the provision period of the first game medium, to consume the first value, select a predetermined game medium from among the multiple game media belonging to the first set, and grant the selected predetermined game medium (including the first game medium) to the user. Specifically, the first providing unit 33 consumes paid in-game currency equivalent to the first value stored in the user information stored in the storage unit 30 in association with the user by reducing it, selects a predetermined game medium (the first game medium or a game medium other than the first game medium) from among the multiple game media belonging to the first set randomly or according to a predetermined probability, associates the selected game medium with the user, updates the user information, and stores the selected game medium in the storage unit 30. Note that the first providing unit 33 may execute information processing to grant the first game medium to the user as a reward for completing a quest, without being limited to a lottery.

(Second provision part)
The second providing unit 34 executes information processing to select a predetermined game medium from among the plurality of game media belonging to the second set and grant the selected predetermined game medium (including the second game medium) to the user in the second game, which can be played without consuming the first value, triggered by lottery application information for the second game medium acquired by the information acquiring unit 31 during the provision period of the second game medium. Specifically, the second providing unit 34 consumes the free in-game currency equivalent to the third value associated with the user in the user information stored in the storage unit 30 by reducing it, selects a predetermined game medium (the second game medium or a game medium other than the second game medium) from among the plurality of game media belonging to the second set randomly or according to a predetermined probability, associates the selected game medium with the user, and stores the user information in the storage unit 30. Note that the second providing unit 34 may execute information processing to grant the first game medium to the user as a reward for completing a quest, without being limited to a lottery. Furthermore, the free in-game currency equivalent to the third value and other value do not need to be consumed when playing the second game.

(First conversion unit)
The first conversion unit 35 executes information processing to consume the second value and convert the specified second game medium into the first game medium, based on the conversion instruction information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. Specifically, the first conversion unit 35 consumes the second value by reducing paid in-game currency equivalent to the second value stored in association with the user in the user information in the storage unit 30, deletes the second game medium from the user information by disassociating the second game medium designated by the user from the user, and updates the user information by associating the new first game medium converted from the second game medium with the user, and stores the updated user information in the storage unit 30. Furthermore, the information processing executed by the first conversion unit 35 may include processing to consume, by reducing, paid in-game currency equivalent to the second value stored in association with the user in the user information in the storage unit 30, delete the second game medium and the third game medium from the user information by disassociating the second game medium and the third game medium designated by the user from the user, and associate a new first game medium created by combining the second game medium and the third game medium with the user to update the user information and store the updated user information in the storage unit 30. Note that, instead of paid in-game currency, the second value, such as cash, may be consumed by charging a fee.

In addition, the first conversion unit 35 varies the amount (amount) of second value consumed when converting the second game medium into the first game medium based on the following (a)-(h), and also limits the conversion from the second game medium to the first game medium.
(a) the number of times the user has played the first game; (b) the timing of the conversion (whether or not the conversion is made within the provision period of the first game medium);
(c) The number of times the first game has been played by all game-playing users or the number of users who have played the first game; (d) The attributes of the second game medium or the usage status of the second game medium; (e) The number of conversions; (f) The number of first game media used in the game or the number of users who own the first game medium; (g) The total number of first game media owned by users; (h) Whether or not a user owns the first game medium.

(Second conversion unit)
The second conversion unit 36 executes information processing to generate a first game medium by combining the specified second game medium with a third game medium that serves as a material, based on the combination instruction information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. Specifically, the second conversion unit 36 deletes the second game medium and the third game medium from the user information stored in the storage unit 30 by canceling the association between the second game medium and the third game medium specified by the user and the user, and updates the user information by associating the first game medium generated by combining the second game medium and the third game medium with the user, and stores the updated user information in the storage unit 30.

(First recommendation part)
The first recommendation unit 37 executes information processing to recommend to a user who does not own the first game medium that they convert from the second game medium to the first game medium after acquiring the second game medium. Specifically, the first recommendation unit 37 generates notification data for recommending the conversion from the second game medium to the first game medium, and transmits the generated notification data via the network 14 to the user terminal 12 of a user who meets the conditions for the recommendation.

(Second recommendation part)
The second recommendation unit 38 executes information processing to recommend to a user who does not possess a predetermined amount of first value and is therefore unable to play the first game that the second game medium be converted into the first game medium after the user acquires the second game medium. Specifically, the second recommendation unit 38 generates notification data for recommending the conversion of the second game medium into the first game medium, and transmits the generated notification data via the network 14 to the user terminal 12 of the user who meets the conditions for the recommendation.

(Game Progression Department)
The game progression unit 39 executes information processing necessary for the progression of the game, and specifically, progresses the game based on various information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. For example, the game progression unit 39 executes effects in response to user operations, such as moving game media such as characters in response to user operations during a quest that the user is playing. The game progression unit 39 also changes parameter settings (more specifically, current states or current values, etc.) of game media such as characters in response to the progress of the game, etc.

The configuration of the server 10 and the user terminal 12 has been described above. Note that the server 10 and the user terminal 12 generally have various functions in addition to those described above. However, only the characteristic functions that provide the desired effects in the information processing system S of the present invention will be described here, and illustrations and descriptions of other known functions will be omitted.

<Information processing flow according to one embodiment of the present invention>
Next, the flow of information processing (hereinafter referred to as information processing flow) executed in the information processing system S configured as described above will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 13. The information processing flow employs the information processing method of the present invention and is realized by using the information processing system S functioning as a computer system. In other words, each step in the information processing flow corresponds to a component of the information processing method of the present invention. Note that the information processing flow described below is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the order of steps may be changed within the scope of the present invention.

(First game media provision process)
First, an example of the first game content provision process will be described with reference to FIG.
The first game medium provision process is a process executed on the server 10 (mainly the first provision unit 33), and is an information process that conducts a lottery in response to a lottery application for the first game received from a user within the provision period of the first game medium, and provides the first game medium to the user.

As shown in FIG. 8, first, during the period in which the first game is being held, i.e., during the period in which the first game medium is provided, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires lottery application information for the first game through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the user and accepts a lottery application from the user (S101). Then, the server 10 consumes the first value owned by the user by reducing the first value (paid in-game currency) stored in association with the user (S102), and performs a lottery for a predetermined game medium, i.e., selects one or a predetermined number of predetermined game media from the multiple game media included in the first set randomly or based on a predetermined probability of winning (S103). Note that the predetermined game medium selected may be the first game medium or a game medium other than the first game medium; the first game medium is not necessarily selected.

The server 10 then stores the selected predetermined game media in association with the user, thereby granting the predetermined game media to the user (S104). Furthermore, the server 10 generates lottery result display data indicating the granted predetermined game media (S105), and transmits the generated lottery result display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby causing the user terminal 12 to display the lottery result (S106), and ends the process.
The above is an example of the first game media provision process.

(Second game media provision process)
Next, an example of the second game content provision process will be described with reference to FIG.
The second game medium provision process is a process executed on the server 10 (mainly the second provision unit 34), and is an information process that conducts a lottery in response to a lottery application for the second game received from a user within the provision period of the second game medium, and provides the second game medium to the user.

As shown in FIG. 9 , first, during the period in which the second game is being held, i.e., during the period in which the second game medium is provided, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires lottery application information for the second game through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the user and accepts a lottery application from the user (S201). Then, the server 10 consumes the third value owned by the user by reducing the third value (free in-game currency) associated with the user and stored (S202). Then, a lottery is performed for a predetermined game medium, i.e., one or a predetermined number of predetermined game media are selected from the multiple game media included in the second set randomly or based on a predetermined probability of winning (S203). Note that the predetermined game medium selected may be the second game medium or a game medium other than the second game medium; the second game medium is not necessarily selected. The lottery may also be performed without consuming the free in-game currency equivalent to the third value. In other words, the processing of step S202 may be omitted.

The server 10 then stores the selected predetermined game media in association with the user, thereby granting the predetermined game media to the user (S204). Furthermore, the server 10 generates lottery result display data indicating the granted predetermined game media (S205), and transmits the generated lottery result display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby causing the user terminal 12 to display the lottery result (S206), and ends the process.
The above is an example of the second game media provision process.

(First conversion process)
Next, an example of the first conversion process will be described with reference to FIG.
The first conversion process is a process executed on the server 10 (mainly the first conversion unit 35), and is an information process that consumes the second value and converts the second game medium into the first game medium based on a conversion instruction from the user.

As shown in FIG. 10, first, when conversion from the second game medium to the first game medium is possible, i.e., when conversion is not restricted, the server 10, which is a computer, receives a conversion instruction from the user through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the user, by acquiring conversion instruction information including content specifying the second game medium to be converted (S301), and then determines the amount of second value (cash, paid in-game currency, etc.) that needs to be consumed for the conversion in accordance with the above conditions (a)-(h) (S302).

Next, the server 10 consumes the second value owned by the user by reducing the second value stored in association with the user according to the determined amount of second value (S303). The server 10 then disassociates the user from the second game medium designated by the user, thereby consuming the second game medium from the user information (S304), converting the second game medium into the first game medium (S305), and newly storing the converted first game medium in association with the user, thereby granting the first game medium to the user (S306).

Furthermore, the server 10 generates conversion result display data indicating the converted first game medium (S307), and transmits the generated conversion result display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby displaying the conversion result on the user terminal 12 (S308), and then ends the processing.
The above is an example of the first conversion process.

(Second conversion process)
Next, an example of the second conversion process will be described with reference to FIG.
The second conversion process is a process executed by the server 10 (mainly the second conversion unit 36), and is an information process that combines the second game medium and the third game medium that serves as the material and converts them into the first game medium based on a synthesis instruction from the user.

As shown in FIG. 11 , first, the server 10, which is a computer, receives a synthesis instruction from a user through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the user, acquiring synthesis instruction information including content specifying the second game medium to be synthesized and the third game medium to be used as materials (S401). The server 10 then consumes the third game medium from the user information by disassociating the user from the third game medium specified by the user (S402). The server 10 also consumes the second game medium from the user information by disassociating the second game medium from the user (S403). The server 10 then generates a first game medium by synthesizing the second game medium and the third game medium (S404), and assigns the generated first game medium to the user by newly associating and storing the first game medium with the user (S405).

Furthermore, the server 10 generates synthesis result display data showing the synthesized first game medium (S406), and transmits the generated synthesis result display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby displaying the synthesis result on the user terminal 12 (S407), and ends the processing.
The above is an example of the second conversion process.

(First recommended process)
Next, an example of the first recommended process will be described with reference to FIG.
The first recommendation process is a process executed on the server 10 (mainly the first recommendation unit 37), and is an information process that recommends to a user who does not possess the first game medium that they convert from the second game medium to the first game medium after acquiring the second game medium.

12 , first, the server 10, which is a computer, determines that the user has obtained the second game medium in the second game (S501: YES), and then, if it determines that the user does not possess the first game medium corresponding to the converted second game medium (S502: YES), it generates notification data recommending conversion from the second game medium to the first game medium (S503), and transmits the generated notification data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12 (S504), and terminates the processing. On the other hand, if it determines that the user has not obtained the second game medium (S501: NO), or if it determines that the user possesses the first game medium corresponding to the converted second game medium (S502: NO), it terminates the processing.
The above is an example of the first recommended process.

(Second recommended process)
Next, an example of the second recommended process will be described with reference to FIG.
The second recommendation process is a process executed on the server 10 (mainly the second recommendation unit 38), and is information processing that recommends to a user who does not possess a predetermined amount of first value and is therefore unable to play the first game that the second game medium be converted into the first game medium after acquiring the second game medium.

13 , the server 10, which is a computer, first determines that the user has acquired the second game medium in the second game (S601: YES), and then, if it determines that the user does not yet possess a predetermined amount of first value (paid in-game currency) sufficient to play the first game to obtain the first game medium equivalent to the converted second game medium (S602: YES), it generates notification data recommending the conversion of the second game medium to the first game medium (S603), and transmits the generated notification data to the user terminal 12 operated by the user through communication with the user terminal 12 (S604), and then terminates the processing. On the other hand, if it determines that the user has not acquired the second game medium (S601: NO) or if it determines that the user possesses the predetermined amount of first value (S602: NO), it terminates the processing.
The above is an example of the second recommended process.

<Other embodiments>
Up to this point, we have explained the information processing device, information processing method, and program of the present invention using specific examples, but the above embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and other embodiments may also be considered.

In the above embodiment, the server computer for distributing game data (i.e., the server 10) functions as the information processing device of the present invention, but this is not limited to this, and some of the functions of the server 10 may be provided in the user terminal 12. For example, some or all of the functions of the first conversion unit 35, the second conversion unit 36, or the game progression unit 39 may be provided in the user terminal 12.

In the above embodiment, user information, etc. is stored on a server computer (i.e., server 10) for distributing game data, but it is also possible to provide a separate database server (not shown) and store the information all together on that database server, or to store it on the user terminal 12.

In the above embodiment, no specific game content is mentioned, but an example of a game is one in which a user controls a character to fight enemy characters. Other examples include word games, fighting games, sports games, shooting games, racing games, puzzle games, card games, board games, role-playing games, and simulation games. Games may be individual or team games. Furthermore, games may be ones in which humans compete against each other as users, or ones in which humans compete against a computer (e.g., AI or a robot).

<Summary>
The main features of the information processing device, information processing method, and program according to the above-described embodiment are as follows.

[1] The information processing device of this embodiment includes a first providing unit that provides a first game medium to a user in response to playing a first game that can be executed by consuming a first value owned by the user, a second providing unit that provides a second game medium to a user in response to playing a second game that can be executed without consuming the first value, and a first conversion unit that converts the second game medium into the first game medium by the user consuming the second value.
According to the information processing device described above, even if a game medium has limited acquisition methods, the user can acquire the game medium through multiple methods (routes), thereby improving the entertainment value of the game. That is, even if a first game medium would normally require the consumption of first value to be acquired, it can be acquired without the consumption of first value, so that the user has the opportunity to acquire the first game medium even if he or she does not have enough first value (including if he or she does not own it at all).

[2] The information processing device further includes a second conversion unit that converts the second game medium into the first game medium by combining the third game medium set in the second game medium as a material.
This allows the user to convert the second game medium into the first game medium by consuming the second value, or to combine the second game medium with the third game medium and convert the second game medium into the first game medium, regardless of whether the second value is consumed. This allows the user to obtain game media in multiple ways, further improving the entertainment value of the game.

[3] In the information processing device, the first conversion unit determines the amount of the second value required for conversion for each user depending on the number of times the first game has been played.
This allows a user to exchange second game media for first game media with different amounts of second value according to the number of times the user has played the first game. For example, if the amount of second value required for exchange is reduced as the number of times the first game has been played increases, the user is less likely to be dissatisfied even if they are unable to obtain the first game media despite having played the first game multiple times by consuming first value. This allows the user to obtain game media through multiple methods, further improving the entertainment value of the game.

[4] In the above information processing device, the first conversion unit reduces the amount of second value required for conversion depending on the number of times the first game has been played, and increases the amount of second value when a predetermined condition is satisfied.
This allows a user to exchange second game media for first game media by playing the first game with a small amount of second value corresponding to the number of times the user has played the first game. On the other hand, since the amount of second value is increased when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the amount of second value required for exchange is not excessively reduced, and the game balance can be maintained in an appropriate state. This allows a user to obtain game media through multiple methods, further enhancing the appeal of the game.

[5] In the above information processing device, the first conversion unit sets the amount of the second value to a specified value when the second game medium is converted into the first game medium.
This allows a user to exchange second game media for first game media with different amounts of second value according to the number of times the user has played the first game by playing the first game. On the other hand, when the second game media are exchanged for the first game media, the amount of second value required for exchange is set to a predetermined value, so that the amount of second value required for exchange does not change too drastically, and the game balance can be maintained in an appropriate state. Furthermore, the user can enjoy bargaining over the timing of exchanging the second game media for the first game media. This allows the user to obtain game media through multiple methods, further enhancing the entertainment value of the game.

[6] In the above-mentioned information processing device, the first providing unit is capable of providing the first game medium during a specified providing period, and the first conversion unit is capable of converting the second game medium into the first game medium outside the specified providing period.
This allows the user to exchange the second game medium for the first game medium even outside of a predetermined distribution period during which the first game medium cannot be acquired through the first game. This not only motivates users to exchange the second game medium for the first game medium, but also allows users to acquire game media through multiple methods, further enhancing the appeal of the game.

[7] In the above-mentioned information processing device, the first providing unit is capable of providing the first game medium during a specified providing period, and the first conversion unit changes the amount of second value required for conversion depending on whether the conversion is within the specified providing period or outside the specified providing period.
This allows users to exchange second game media for first game media with a small amount of second value depending on whether the first game media is available in the first game or not during a predetermined provision period. For example, if demand for the first game media decreases outside the predetermined provision period, reducing the amount of second value required for exchange outside the predetermined provision period can motivate users to exchange the second game media for first game media outside the predetermined provision period. On the other hand, if demand for the first game media increases outside the predetermined provision period, reducing the amount of second value required for exchange within the predetermined provision period can motivate users to exchange the second game media for first game media within the predetermined provision period. This allows users to obtain game media through multiple methods, while further enhancing the entertainment value of the game.

[8] In the above information processing device, the first conversion unit determines the amount of second value required for conversion based on information that changes depending on the attributes of the second game content or the playing situation.
This allows the user to exchange the second game medium for the first game medium with a small amount of second value depending on the play situation, such as the frequency of use of the second game medium, etc. This not only motivates the user to exchange the second game medium, which requires a small amount of second value, for the first game medium, but also allows the user to obtain the game medium through multiple methods, further improving the entertainment value of the game.

[9] In the above information processing device, the first conversion unit limits the conversion from the second game medium to the first game medium when the number of times the second game medium has been converted to the first game medium reaches a predetermined number.
This makes it possible to prevent the number of users who can obtain the first game media or the total number of first game media in the entire game from increasing too much, and also maintain an appropriate game balance, thereby enabling users to obtain game media through multiple methods and further improving the appeal of the game.

[10] In the above information processing device, the first conversion unit limits conversion from second game media to first game media based on the number of first game media owned by the user.
This makes it possible to prevent the number of users who can obtain the first game media or the total number of first game media in the entire game from increasing too much, and to maintain an appropriate game balance, thereby enabling users to obtain game media through multiple methods and further improving the appeal of the game.

[11] The information processing device further includes a first recommendation unit that recommends to a user who does not own the first game medium that they convert from the second game medium to the first game medium after obtaining the second game medium.
This not only encourages users to convert, but also increases the likelihood that users will be able to efficiently access the information they need, thereby motivating users who do not own the first game medium to convert their second game medium into the first game medium, and further enhancing the appeal of the game by enabling users to obtain game media through multiple methods.

[12] The information processing device further includes a second recommendation unit that recommends to a user who does not possess a predetermined amount of first value that the second game medium be converted into the first game medium after the user acquires the second game medium.
This not only encourages users to convert, but also increases the likelihood that users will be able to efficiently access the information they need. Therefore, in particular, users who are unable to obtain the first game medium because they do not possess a predetermined amount of first value are motivated to convert their second game medium into the first game medium, and allows users to obtain the game medium through multiple methods, further improving the appeal of the game.

[13] Furthermore, according to the information processing method of this embodiment, a computer provides a first game medium to a user in response to playing a first game that can be executed by consuming a first value owned by the user, and a computer provides a second game medium to the user in response to playing a second game that can be executed without consuming the first value, and the computer converts the second game medium into the first game medium by the user consuming a second value.
According to the above information processing method, even if the game medium has limited acquisition methods, it is possible for the user to acquire the game medium through multiple methods, thereby improving the entertainment value of the game.

[14] Furthermore, according to the program of this embodiment, a computer is caused to provide a first game medium to a user in response to playing a first game that can be executed by consuming a first value owned by the user, to provide a second game medium to the user in response to playing a second game that can be executed without consuming the first value, and to convert the second game medium into the first game medium by the user consuming a second value.
According to the above program, even if the game medium has limited acquisition methods, the user can acquire the game medium through multiple methods, thereby improving the entertainment value of the game.

10 Server 12 User terminal 14 Network 21 Processor 22 Memory 23 Communication interface 24 Storage 25 Bus 30 Memory unit 31 Information acquisition unit 32 Display control unit 33 First provision unit 34 Second provision unit 35 First conversion unit 36 Second conversion unit 37 First recommendation unit 38 Second recommendation unit 39 Game progression unit 51 First game medium display area 52 Second game medium display area 53 Amount display area 54 Conversion button G Game medium conversion screen S Information processing system

Claims (4)

a processor, the processor comprising:
providing a first game medium to a user in response to playing a game that consumes value owned by the user;
providing a second game medium to the user in response to playing the game without consuming the value;
converting one of the second game media into one of the first game media by consuming a predetermined amount of the value without consuming other game media;
before converting the second game medium to the first game medium, displaying a screen displaying the first game medium, the second game medium, and a value consumed for the conversion, and converting the second game medium to the first game medium after the user operates the screen;
Information processing device. the processor provides the first game medium to the user in response to playing a game that consumes the value owned by the user;
the processor provides the user with a second game medium in response to play of the game without consuming the value;
a processor converting one of the second game media into the first game media by consuming a predetermined amount of the value without consuming other game media;
a processor, before converting the second game medium into the first game medium, displays a screen displaying the first game medium, the second game medium, and a value to be consumed for the conversion, and converts the second game medium into the first game medium after the user operates the screen;
Information processing methods. The processor
providing a first game medium to a user in response to playing a game that consumes value owned by the user;
providing a second game medium to the user in response to playing the game without consuming the value;
converting one of the second game media into one of the first game media by consuming a predetermined amount of the value without consuming other game media;
before converting the second game medium to the first game medium, displaying a screen displaying the first game medium, the second game medium, and a value consumed for the conversion, and converting the second game medium to the first game medium after the user operates the screen;
program. A server and a terminal are included,
The server
providing a first game medium to a user in response to playing a game that consumes value owned by the user;
providing a second game medium to the user in response to playing the game without consuming the value;
converting one of the second game media to one of the first game media by consuming a predetermined amount of the value without consuming any other game media;
system.