JP7832098B2 - Game device, game execution control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

Application of Article 30, Paragraph 2 of the Patent Law (1) Publication date: September 10, 2022 to September 11, 2022, Publication location: Namco Coaska Bayside Stores, a location test site for the commercial game machine "Fishing Spirits" equipped with the "Sinker" function (2) Posting date: October 7, 2022 to December 6, 2022, https://trsp.bn-am.net/index.html and sub-addresses of this address (3) Posting date: October 7, 2022, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBm5tltK_gQ&t=11s; October 7, 2022, https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=WNS0hlzBYbk; October 7, 2022, https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=j9xwiB-Fnh4; December 2, 2022, https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=G5Bs0ynla6g (4) Posting date: October 7, 2022, https://bandainamco-am. co. jp/company/NEWS/am/20221007_1100_18-C-015. html, https://bandainamco-am.co.jp/documents/company/NEWS/am/18/20221007_18-C-015.pdf (5) Publication date: October 15, 2022, Publication: Monthly CoroCoro Comic November issue, pages 176-179 (6) Public release date: November 21, 2022 to December 14, 2022 (after the patent application date), Public release locations: Yume Town Yame store, Yume Kids store, and 13 other stores in total

This invention relates to a game device, etc.

There are games themed around virtual fishing (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). Players can enjoy virtual fishing in a virtual ocean or other virtual environment displayed within the game's visuals by operating a fishing rod-shaped controller.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-164863 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-221117

In real-world fishing, you consider the "tana," which is the underwater layer (depth) where the target fish feed, and prepare fishing gear (rigs) appropriate for that "tana." Traditional fishing games lacked this concept of "tana."

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a new fishing game technology that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest.

The first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is a game device for running a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images (for example, the control board 1250 in Figure 1, the processing unit 200 in Figure 10, the game image display control unit 240, the game image display control data 720 in Figure 13, and step S20 in Figure 14),
The system includes a game progress control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers (for example, the control board 1250 in Figure 1, the processing unit 200 in Figure 10, the game progress control unit 220, the target layer information of the player management data 714 in Figure 13, and steps S60 to S66 in Figure 15),
The aforementioned plurality of underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in one of the underwater layers. The game image display control means generates a deep layer image, which is an image of the deep layer, and a surface layer image, which is an image of the surface layer. The game device generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep layer image to change its visibility (for example, distortion processing in Figure 5, step S20 in Figure 14).

According to the first invention, the game device can control the progress of a virtual fishing game displaying game images, with the target of fishing being one of several underwater layers. In other words, it is possible to realize a new fishing game technology that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest.

Furthermore, according to the first invention, the multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer. The game device generates a deep-layer image (an image of the deep layer) and a surface-layer image (an image of the surface layer), and can perform predetermined image processing on the deep-layer image. Therefore, the player can virtually experience how the visibility of underwater objects changes due to light refraction, etc., and experience things like catching deep-layer objects. In other words, it is possible to realize a new fishing game technology that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest.

The second invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game image display control means generates the game image in which the images are superimposed in the following order: 1) a given deep background image, 2) the deep image after the image processing, 3) the surface image, and 4) a given water surface image.

According to the second invention, game images can be generated by sequentially overlaying a processed deep-layer image, a surface image, and a water surface image onto a deep-layer background image. Therefore, realistic underwater representation can be achieved, for example, by making the deep-layer details less visible while the surface details are highly visible.

The third invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means sets a game stage that defines either a virtual fishing location, environment, or virtual time (for example, steps S6 to S8 in Figure 14), and the game image display control means adjusts the color of the deep background image and/or the deep image according to the game stage (for example, step S20 in Figure 14).

According to the third invention, the deep background image and the deep image can be given a color tone suitable for the settings of the corresponding game stage. Furthermore, by matching the color tones of the deep background image and the deep image, it is possible to suppress the unnatural appearance of objects located in the deep layer.

The fourth invention is a game device in which the image processing includes image processing that modifies the visibility of the deep image by a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of the object located in the deep layer.

According to the fourth invention, by applying image processing with a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of objects located in the deeper layers, it is possible to suppress the unnatural appearance of objects located in the deeper layers in proportion to their size.

The fifth invention relates to the above-mentioned game device, wherein the game progress control means determines a target layer among the plurality of underwater layers and controls the progress of the game play.
It is a game device.

The fifth invention will allow players to play a virtual fishing game targeting specific depths (underwater layers).

The sixth invention is a game device that further comprises a switching control means (for example, the switching control unit 222 in Figure 10, and steps S60 to S66 in Figure 15) that sets the initial setting of the target layer to the surface layer and controls the switching of the target layer from among the multiple underwater layers.

According to the sixth invention, the user can enjoy a virtual fishing experience, for example, by starting to target the surface layer but then switching to targeting a different underwater layer midway through.

The seventh invention is a game device further comprising the above-described game device, which, when the target layer is the deep layer, includes surface object modification control means (for example, the surface object modification control unit 224 in Figure 10, and steps S10 to S12 in Figure 14) for changing any of the types, numbers, and sizes of the objects located on the surface layer.

According to the seventh invention, it is possible to prevent the appearance of the target layer (the deeper layer) from becoming obscured by the type, number, and size of objects located on the surface.

The eighth invention is a game device in which, when the target layer is the deep layer, the game progress control means controls the sinking of virtual floats, lures, bait, hooks, weights, fishing rigs, tackle, and other items to be placed in the water (hereinafter referred to as "underwater items"), and the game image display control means controls the display form of the underwater items according to the depth at which the underwater items are located (for example, switching between the surface model 71 and the deep-layer model 72 in Figure 4, step S64 in Figure 15).

According to the eighth invention, the game device can indicate whether an item placed underwater is located in the deep or surface layer by changing the display format of the item. Therefore, it becomes easier for the player to play.

The ninth invention is a game device in which the deep image includes an image of the underwater-dropped item when it is located in the deep layer.

According to the ninth invention, the visibility of items deployed underwater can also be altered. Therefore, the realism can be enhanced when targeting the deep sea layer.

The tenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game image display control means controls the display form of the underwater-introduced item in stages, and controls the display of a given effect during the staged change (for example, effect 73 in Figure 4, step S64 in Figure 15).

According to the tenth invention, the change in the display format of items placed underwater can be made less noticeable.

The eleventh invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means performs movement control to gradually bring hit objects that have been hit during gameplay closer to the water surface (for example, step S88 in Figure 15), and the game image display control means performs control to change the display clarity of the hit objects according to the depth at which the hit objects are located (for example, step S102 in Figure 15).

"Hit" means that something has been caught on the fishing gear. For example, if the hit object is a fish, it corresponds to the fish biting the bait on the fishing gear. If the hit object is a treasure chest submerged on the seabed, it corresponds to the treasure chest getting caught on the hook at the end of the fishing line.

"Display Clarity" is the degree to which the features that identify an object type are clear. Higher display clarity means the features that identify the object type are clearer. Specifically, display clarity changes when at least one of the following factors is changed: image size, clarity of outlines, number of colors in the color scheme, or color (including hue, saturation, and brightness).

According to the eleventh invention, the game device can represent the gradual process of the hit object becoming clearer.

The twelfth invention is a game device in which the game image display control means performs irreversible control, controlling only in the direction of maintaining or improving the display clarity of the hit object, and not in the direction of making the display clarity of the hit object unclear.

As the clarity of a hit object gradually increases, the anticipation of reeling it in grows. On the other hand, if the clarity decreases during the reeling process, it can realistically depict the hit object sinking deeper into the water again, but it may also dampen that heightened anticipation. This risk is higher among younger players.
According to the twelfth invention, it is possible to create a fishing game that takes into account the expectations that younger players have about catching fish.

The thirteenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, if the game progress control means fails to reel in the hit object and the hit object becomes a miss object, it performs control to maintain the display clarity of the miss object (for example, step S114 in Figure 16).

A "miss object" is an object that was a hit object but is considered to have come off the hook during the retrieval process.
According to the 13th invention, the player can be shown the appearance of a missed object that came off the hook during the retrieval process. This can make the player want to try catching the object again, thereby increasing their motivation for the next play.

The fourteenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progression control means selects candidate object types for the hit object according to the size of the hit object at the time of the hit, and determines the object type of the hit object from among the candidate object types (for example, the hit determination unit 226 in Figure 10, step S82 in Figure 15).

According to the 14th invention, the hit object may not necessarily be the type the player expected. This recreates the thrill of fishing, where you don't know what kind of fish you've caught until you reel it in.

The fifteenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means reads information from a storage unit that stores information on the types of acquired objects that the player has previously caught (for example, the storage unit 500 and acquired fish species information 605 in Figure 11), performs a lottery that improves the probability of selecting an object type that has not been acquired as the hit object, and determines the object type of the hit object.

According to the 15th invention, players will find it easier to catch objects they have never caught before. Therefore, the more they play the game, the more enjoyable it becomes to collect the objects they have caught, increasing their motivation to play the fishing game even more.

The sixteenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means performs the lottery multiple times until the hit object is caught.

According to the 16th invention, the nature of the hit object remains uncertain until the moment of reeling, enhancing the excitement of the fishing game.

The seventeenth invention is a game device in which, as a battle effect control that changes the top view display position of the hit object in the game image, a) if the hit object is a surface object, it performs battle effect control to move the hit object in one of multiple directions, including the near and far directions and the left and right directions relative to the player; and b) if the hit object is a deep object, it performs battle effect control to move the hit object in a direction along the near and far direction relative to the player (for example, step S104 in Figure 15).

According to the 17th invention, the game device can create a so-called battle sequence where, depending on whether the hit object is a deep-layered or surface-layered object, the player attempts to reel in the hit object as it is about to escape the trap.

The eighteenth invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means controls the retrieval speed according to the depth at which the hit object is located (for example, steps S66 and S88 in Figure 15).

According to the 18th invention, the game device can provide a virtual fishing experience that closely resembles real fishing, such as the time it takes to reel in a fish when it bites in deep water.

The 19th invention is a game device in which, in the above-described game device, the game progress control means performs control to improve the probability of catching the hit object in response to a predetermined operation by the player (for example, steps S130 to S132 in Figure 16).

According to the 19th invention, game-like elements can be added, enhancing the unique appeal of a virtual fishing experience.

The 20th invention is a game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game, comprising: game image display control for controlling the display of game images; and game progress control for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers, wherein the multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in one of the underwater layers; and the game image display control generates a deep layer image, which is an image of the deep layer, and a surface layer image, which is an image of the surface layer, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep layer image to change its visibility.

According to the 20th invention, a game execution control method can be realized that achieves the same effects as the first invention.

The 21st invention is a program for causing a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game, wherein the computer functions as a game image display control means for controlling the display of game images, and a game progress control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers, the multiple underwater layers including at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in one of the underwater layers, and the game image display control means generates a deep layer image, which is an image of the deep layer, and a surface layer image, which is an image of the surface layer, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep layer image to change its visibility.

According to the 21st invention, a program that can achieve the same effects as the first invention can be realized.

The 22nd invention is a program in which, in the above-described program, the fishing game is a multiplayer game playable simultaneously by the player and other players, and the game image display control means controls the display clarity of the hit object according to the depth at which the hit object is located when an object is hit by the player's gameplay, and performs a different control from the control that changes the display clarity of the hit object when an object is hit by another player's gameplay.

According to the 22nd invention, it is possible to change the visual display when another player's hit object is hit.

A diagram showing an example configuration of a game device. This diagram shows an example of how game images are displayed when the target layer is the surface layer. This diagram shows an example of how game images are displayed when the target layer is deep. A diagram illustrating the changes in the display format of fishing floats. A diagram illustrating the generation of game images. A diagram illustrating how to reel in a hooked fish. A diagram illustrating the display control for hit fish. A diagram illustrating the display control for missed fish. A diagram explaining how to activate a technique on a hooked fish. A functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a game device. A diagram showing examples of programs and data stored in the memory unit. This diagram shows an example of the data structure for the initial game stage settings. A diagram showing an example of the data structure of play data. A flowchart illustrating the processing flow in a game device. Flowchart continuing from Figure 14. Flowchart continuing from Figure 15. A diagram showing an example of the configuration of a game device in the second embodiment. A functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device in the second embodiment. A diagram showing an example of the game system configuration in the third embodiment. A functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server system in the third embodiment. A diagram showing examples of programs and data stored in the server storage unit of the third embodiment. A functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal in the third embodiment. A functional block diagram showing an example of the user terminal's functional configuration in a modified example. A diagram showing examples of programs and data stored in the terminal memory of a user terminal in a modified example.

The following describes examples of embodiments of the present invention, but it goes without saying that the applicable forms of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described below.

[First Embodiment]
Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a game device 1200 to which the present invention is applied.
The game device 1200 is a multiplayer-compatible commercial game device that runs a virtual fishing game. The game device 1200 is also a type of computer system. The game device 1200 comprises a flat panel display 1206 fixed to the top surface of the housing 1201 with its display surface facing upward, a speaker 1208, player-specific stations 1210, and a control board 1250.

The flat panel display 1206 primarily displays game images. The flat panel display 1206 may also have touch panel functionality.

Station 1210 is provided in quantities equal to the number of players who can play simultaneously. In the example shown in Figure 1, a configuration allowing for four-player multiplayer is displayed, with a total of four stations 1210 located on each side of the rectangular housing 1201 in a top view. Each station 1210 includes a payment device 1212, a touch panel 1214, a code reader 1213, and a fishing rod-type controller 1220. There is no particular limit to the number of stations; they can be designed as needed.

The play fee payment device 1212 is a device that accepts payment for play by inserting cash coins or designated tokens. The payment method for play fees is not limited to cash or tokens; it can be set as appropriate. For example, payment may be made by credit card, prepaid card, electronic money, or electronic payment code. The play fee payment device 1212 can be configured accordingly by equipping it with a card reader, short-range communication device, code reader, etc.

The touch panel 1214 displays individual information to the player of the station 1210 and accepts operation input from the player. Instead of the touch panel, a small flat panel display with normal display functions may be used.

The code reader 1213 is a device that reads various types of codes. For example, it may be capable of reading two-dimensional codes. The player may pay for the game by displaying an electronic payment code on a camera-equipped communication terminal with online payment functionality (e.g., a smartphone) owned by the player, and having the code reader 1213 read it.

The fishing rod-type controller 1220 comprises a grip 1221 that mimics the handle of a fishing rod, a dummy rod 1222 that mimics a part of the fishing rod, a dummy reel 1223, and a controller board 1230.

The dummy reel 1223 is a mechanism that receives an input equivalent to winding a reel in real fishing by rotating the handle 1224. It is equipped with a sensor that detects the rotation direction and angle of the handle 1224, and an operation switch 1225. The sensor and operation switch 1225 of the dummy reel 1223 are electrically connected to the controller board 1230. Alternatively, the system may simply detect the presence or absence of a reel rotation input without detecting the rotation direction and angle of the handle 1224.

The controller board 1230 comprises an IC chip 1231, an IC memory 1232, a three-axis accelerometer 1234, a gyroscope 1235, and a communication module 1236. The three-axis accelerometer 1234 and the gyroscope 1235 detect the attitude and orientation of the fishing rod-type controller 1220, as well as any changes thereto.

The controller board 1230 communicates with the control board 1250, which is built into the housing 1201, via the communication cable 1240. The controller board 1230 transmits input signals corresponding to operation inputs to the handle 1224 and operation switches 1225, as well as information on the attitude and orientation of the fishing rod-type controller 1220 detected by the 3-axis accelerometer 1234 and gyro sensor 1235, to the control board 1250.

The control board 1250 incorporates various microprocessors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1251, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various IC memories 1252 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, a communication device 1253, and an interface circuit 1254. Part or all of the control board 1250 may be implemented using an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a SoC (System on a Chip).

The game device 1200 performs the following functions based on a predetermined program and data, through calculations performed by the control board 1250: (1) controlling the progress of the fishing game, (2) controlling the generation and display of game images, and (3) controlling the management of information about the fish caught by each player. Of course, the control board 1250 may also perform other types of control.

Figure 2 shows an example of how game images are displayed.
The game image W2 is an image of a virtual underwater world, consisting of at least two underwater layers, a deep layer and a surface layer, viewed from above the water surface, and is generated by the control board 1250.
Game image W2 has different screen compositions and color tones for each game stage, which is defined as either a location, environment, or time of day for virtual fishing. It includes a deep background image 21 depicting the deep sea background (the part drawn by overlapping the shaded areas in Figure 2), deep-sea fish 22 swimming in the deep sea, a surface background image 24 depicting the surface sea background, surface fish 25 swimming on the surface, a water surface image 27 representing the shimmering and rippling of the water surface, and images of floats 7 for each player.

Deep-sea fish 22 and surface-dwelling fish 25 are underwater objects representing things that exist in water. The underwater objects depicted in game image W2 are not limited to deep-sea fish 22 and surface-dwelling fish 25; they may also include rocks, coral, shipwrecks, treasure chests, and other organisms besides fish such as shellfish, starfish, anemones, and jellyfish, as appropriate.

In the following, deep-sea fish 22 and surface-water fish 25 will be described as objects that can be caught, but other objects such as treasure chests, starfish, jellyfish, and other non-fish creatures may also be used as targets for fishing.

Furthermore, the term "fish" in "deep-sea fish" and "surface-water fish" does not refer exclusively to fish in the biological classification, but rather to all creatures targeted for fishing. Therefore, while deep-sea fish 22 and surface-water fish 25 exist at different depths, they can certainly be fish in the biological classification, but they could also include mollusks such as squid and octopus, mammals such as dolphins, jellyfish, sharks, and so on. Moreover, they are not limited to real-world fish; fictional creatures are also acceptable.

The number of deep-sea fish 22 and surface-water fish 25 displayed simultaneously in the game image W2 is set appropriately, taking into account the size of the flat panel display 1206, so as not to overcrowde the screen with fish shadows.

Since deep-sea fish 22 are generally rare for the average angler, it might be acceptable to randomly select one, or at most a few, species from a group of candidate fish and display one of each. Surface fish 25 are familiar to the average angler (relatively easy to catch), so the number of surface fish 25 species displayed may be greater than the number of deep-sea fish 22. Similarly, the number of surface fish 25 displayed may also be greater than the number of deep-sea fish 22.

However, considering that surface fish 25 are displayed overlapping with deep-sea fish 22, the number, species, and size of surface fish 25 displayed are changed according to the number of players attempting to catch deep-sea fish 22 (the number of players who have set their target layer to deep, as described later), in order to maintain a reasonably clear view of the deep-sea environment.

For example, you could change the number of surface fish displayed to decrease inversely proportional to the number of players. Alternatively, you could keep the number of displayed fish the same but change the probability of selecting smaller surface fish, making them more likely to be selected. Or, you could keep the number of displayed fish and the selection of fish species the same but reduce the display size. Of course, you could also combine changes to the number of displayed fish, the fish species, and the display size.

The player selects either the deep or surface underwater layer as the target layer for gameplay. Initially, the target layer is set to the surface layer, but the player can switch the target layer each time they perform a specific operation on the fishing rod-type controller 1220 (for example, by pressing the operation switch 1225).

The currently set target layer is indirectly indicated to the player by the display mode of float 7. For example, game image W2 in Figure 2 shows float 7 (71) when the target layer is the surface, and game image W3 in Figure 3 shows float 7 (72) when the target layer is the deep layer. The display mode of float 7 changes to indicate sinking/floating depending on the target layer.

Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the changes in the display format of float 7.
The float 7 comes in two models: a surface model 71 used when the target layer is the surface, and a deep-water model 72 used when the target layer is the deep layer. The design of each model can be set as appropriate, but in the example in Figure 4, the surface model 71 has a design in which a propeller is attached to the outer circumference of a circular central body. The deep-water model 72 represents the surface model 71 when it is submerged deep to the bottom, so the part corresponding to the propeller is not identifiable, and it is designed to be circular or nearly circular.

When the target layer shifts from the surface to the deeper layer, the depth value set on float 7 is gradually increased. Accordingly, the surface layer model 71 rotates and its display size decreases as the depth increases (Figure 4(1) → Figure 4(2) → Figure 4(3)).

When the depth of float 7 reaches a predetermined value (for example, a depth value corresponding to the boundary between the surface and the deep layer), the model switches from the surface model 71 to the deep layer model 72. To make the model switch less noticeable, effect 73 is superimposed on the image of float 7 before and after the model switch (Figures 4(3) and 4(4)).

The content of Effect 73 can be configured as needed, but in the example in Figure 4, it is set to reproduce the appearance of a group of bubbles viewed from directly above.

The deep-sea model 72 is controlled to decrease in display size and to blink as the depth of the float 7 increases (Figure 4(4) → Figure 4(5)). When the depth of the float 7 reaches a predetermined deep-sea depth value, the display size change of the deep-sea model 72 stops, and the blinking display control continues.

When the target layer is switched from the deep layer to the surface layer, the display control is reversed (Figure 4(5) → Figure 4(4) → Figure 4(3) → Figure 4(2) → Figure 4(1)).

Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the generation of the game image W2.
The game image W2 is generated by sequentially layering the deep background image 21, a deep image 23 which includes at least an image of a deep fish 22, a surface image 26 which superimposes a surface fish 25 onto a surface background image 24, and a water surface image 27. Since distortion processing is applied to the deep image 23, the deep image 23 after distortion processing is synthesized.

The deep background image 21, deep image 23, and surface image 26 are pre-adjusted in color tone according to the virtual time in the game stage. This creates the effect of time changes as the virtual time shifts from daytime to evening, by darkening the deep background image 21 or adjusting its color tone to that of a sunset. Furthermore, the deep-sea fish 22 are color-adjusted to match the color tone of the deep background image 21 after it has been adjusted. This prevents the deep-sea fish 22 from standing out and becoming inconspicuous. The surface fish 25 may also be color-adjusted to match the color tone of the surface image 26 after it has been adjusted.

Depending on the depth of float 7, the image of float 7 may be included in either the deep-sea image 23 or the surface image 26. For example, in the example in Figure 5, the image of float 7 is included in the surface image 26.

"Distortion processing" is an image processing technique that alters visibility to reproduce the appearance of underwater objects, such as how objects appear to waver due to the refraction of light by water. For example, this can be achieved using an "underwater wave filter." More specifically, wave height map data (where wave height changes over time) is prepared, and the wave height at the drawing position is read from the wave height map data. The dots in the image to be processed (for example, the image of the deep-sea fish 22) are then shifted in the X and Y directions by a distance corresponding to the wave height. As a result, the distorted image loses its outline, making it appear as if you are looking at the bottom of deep water.

The distortion processing is then performed at a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of the deep-sea fish 22. Specifically, the smaller the fish, the lower the degree of distortion; the larger the fish, the higher the degree of distortion. If the distortion is too high for a small fish, the outline will be too distorted, making it impossible to determine the fish species. Being able to determine the fish species from the outline is important because it attracts the player's interest and motivates them to want to catch the deep-sea fish 22.

In this embodiment, the distortion processing is applied only to the image of the deep-sea fish 22. Therefore, focusing on image distortion, only the deep-sea fish 22 is distorted within the deep-sea background image 21. This is a deliberate measure to make it easier for children to identify the deep-sea fish 22 within the deep-sea background image 21. Of course, it is also possible to generate the deep-sea image 23 by applying distortion processing to an image in which the deep-sea fish 22 is superimposed on the deep-sea background image 21. In this case, while the ease of identifying the deep-sea fish 22 decreases, the realism improves.

Furthermore, distortion correction may involve performing one or more image processing techniques, such as blurring, mosaic processing, or brightness and saturation adjustments. Alternatively, one or more of these techniques, such as blurring, mosaic processing, or brightness and saturation adjustments, may be used as a substitute for distortion correction. For example, adding color correction to distortion correction (e.g., shifting the original RGB values) can alter the visibility of the deep-sea fish 22 not only in terms of its outline but also its color.

Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating how to retrieve a hooked fish.
A "hit fish" is a fish that has been caught in a fishing rig. In other words, it is a hit object among the objects that can be caught in this game that has been caught in a fishing rig. For both deep-sea fish 22 and surface-water fish 25, the hit fish is selected by a random process from among multiple candidate fish species (candidate object species that can be caught).

Specifically, the fish species displayed in game image W2 are used as candidate species, and a lottery process is used to select the hit fish by applying the probability for each candidate species (rare species have a lower probability). Alternatively, in addition to the fish species displayed in game image W2, other fish species of the same size (e.g., small, medium, large, etc.) may also be used as candidate species, and a lottery process is used to select the hit fish by applying the probability for each candidate species (rare species have a lower probability). For example, if a small surface fish 25 is swimming and a hit occurs, that surface fish 25 or another surface fish 25 of similar size will be selected as the hit fish.

In the method of using the fish species displayed in game image W2 as candidate fish, players can enjoy the challenge of estimating the species of the hit fish from the silhouette of the deep-sea fish 22 visible in game image W2. In the method of selecting and adding other fish species of similar size to those displayed in game image W2 as candidate fish, it is possible to make the player's species estimation more difficult, creating an element of surprise. This method can also be said to be adapted to the fact that the degree of distortion processing and the clarity of display vary depending on the size of the deep-sea fish 22.

The game device 1200 has a function to store information on the types of fish that each player has previously caught (acquired object type information). For one or both of the deep-sea fish 22 and surface fish 25, if a fish type has not been acquired, a lottery is conducted by applying an applied hit probability, which is an increased probability from the initial hit probability by a predetermined improvement rate.

The game progression is controlled so that the time and effort required to reel in a fish is greater for deep-sea fish (22) than for surface-dwelling fish (25).
Specifically, the virtual fishing line payout distance L(L2, L5) is set according to the target layer. When the target layer is deep, the payout distance L2 is set to be greater than the payout distance L5 when the target layer is the surface. Then, the payout distances L2 and L5 are reduced according to the number of winding operations of the dummy reel 1223 of the fishing rod type controller 1220, and when a predetermined value is reached, it becomes possible to reel in the hooked fish. In other words, it can be said that control is performed to change the reeling speed according to the depth where the hooked fish is located.

After a bite, the fish's movements are controlled to simulate it struggling to escape and break free from the hook. This movement control, which represents the battle between the angler and the fish, is called "battle control." In battle control, a) if the fish is a surface fish 25, the fish is controlled to move in one of several directions, including near and far from the player, and left and right. b) if the fish is a deep-sea fish 22, the fish is controlled to move in a direction aligned with the near and far directions from the player.

Furthermore, to assist in the fishing gameplay, the current value of the distance L extended may be displayed as a gauge on the flat panel display 1206 near the station 1210 of the player who hit the fish. Alternatively, it may be displayed on the touch panel 1214.

Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the display control for hit fish.
When the player performs a winding operation with the dummy reel 1223, the payout distance L is deducted, and the depth set for the hit fish is also deducted, causing the hit fish to be displayed as it gradually approaches the water surface. Furthermore, the hit fish is displayed in a way that increases clarity and size as the depth approaches "0".

Specifically, for deep-sea fish 22, different display clarity levels are pre-set for each of several depth ranges, and fish image display models 8 (8a, 8b, ...) are provided for each display clarity level.
"Display Clarity" is the degree to which the features that allow for the identification of a fish species are clear. Higher display clarity results in clearer features that allow for the identification of a fish species. Specifically, display clarity is changed by changing at least one of the following: image size, clarity of outline, number of colors, and color (including hue, saturation, and brightness). In the example in Figure 7, display clarity is set in stages from "1" to "4". Display clarity "1" has an outline that resembles an actual fish, but the color scheme is almost monochromatic. As display clarity increases, the image size increases, the outline becomes more accurate and detailed, and the number of colors depicted increases. Display clarity "4" is an image of an actual fish, or a realistic illustration or CG equivalent to it. As mentioned above, in the generation of the game image W2, distortion processing is applied to the image of the deep-sea fish 22, so the display clarity of fish shadow display model 8a and fish shadow display model 8b is relatively lower than that of fish shadow display model 8c and fish shadow display model 8d.

The display clarity of hit fish is changed irreversibly; it is only controlled in the direction of maintaining or increasing display clarity, and not in the direction of making it less clear.
As the clarity of the displayed fish gradually increases, the anticipation of catching it grows. If the clarity decreases, it can realistically depict the fish trying to escape back into the water, but it may also dampen that heightened anticipation and cause disappointment. This risk is higher among younger players. To take into consideration the feelings of younger players, irreversible control is implemented over the display clarity.

Furthermore, by implementing irreversible control over display clarity, the player can clearly see the fish escaping.
Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the display control for missed fish.
After a bite, a "miss judgment" is performed at random (or predetermined) timings to determine whether the hooked fish has come off the rig, or whether a so-called "miss" or "lost the hook" has occurred.

A "miss" is determined when a fish species is selected in a lottery process that applies a pre-set "miss probability." If a miss occurs, the fish is reset from a "hit" state to a "not hit" state, and the fish becomes a "missed fish."

If a player misses reeling in a fish that was previously hooked, the display control will show the fish escaping while maintaining its clarity. For example, it will move away from the player and then frame out of the display area of the flat panel display 1206. If the hooked fish was a deep-sea fish 22, the display control could be adjusted to show it escaping back to the depths. However, clearly showing the player the escaped fish while maintaining its clarity enhances their motivation for the next play.

Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the activation of a technique when a fish is caught.
The game device 1200 performs a "fishing check" for each hit fish at random timings or when intermittent execution conditions are met (for example, every 5 seconds after the outgoing distance L decreases to a predetermined standard value). If the fishing check is successful, the hit fish is considered to have been caught. As one of the game elements related to this "fishing check," the player can activate a predetermined technique on the hit fish by performing a predetermined technique activation operation (for example, pressing the operation switch 1225) using the fishing rod type controller 1220.

The content and representation of the techniques can be set as appropriate. Figure 9 shows an example of a technique that delivers an electric shock via the fishing line. Upon activation of the technique, the game image W2 displays a technique activation indicator 91, showing that the technique has been activated, and a damage indicator 92, showing the degree to which the technique is affecting the hit fish. Alternatively, the technique could involve dropping a bomb into the water and detonating it to shock the hit fish.

The strength of a technique changes depending on the activation cost paid by the player. The "activation cost" could be a given amount of payment for gameplay (e.g., coins or medals), or items or points awarded to the player based on gameplay. Figure 9 shows an example where consuming one unit of activation cost activates a technique with strength "1" that deals "100" damage to the hit fish, and consuming three units of activation cost activates a technique with strength "2" that deals "200" damage to the hit fish. The number of strength levels and their relationship to cost are not limited to the example in Figure 9 and can be set as appropriate.

The catch determination is based on a random draw using the "catch probability" set for the fish species that was caught. If successful, the catch is confirmed. The catch probability is set to be higher the lower the fish's health value. In other words, the more you use a technique to reduce the fish's health, the higher the chance of successfully catching it.

Next, I will explain the functional configuration.
Figure 10 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device 1200.
The game device 1200 includes an operation input unit 100, a payment detection unit 110, a code reading unit 112, a processing unit 200, a sound output unit 390, an image display unit 392, a communication unit 394, and a storage unit 500.

The operation input unit 100 is a means for the player to input various operations related to gameplay, and outputs operation input signals to the processing unit 200. The fishing rod-type controller 1220 and touch panel 1214 in Figure 1 are examples of this.

The payment detection unit 110 detects payment of the play fee by the player and outputs a detection signal to the processing unit 200. The play fee payment device 1212 in Figure 1 corresponds to this unit.

The code reading unit 112 reads the code and outputs a reading signal to the processing unit 200. The code reader 1213 in Figure 1 corresponds to this unit. The reading method can be optical or magnetic.

The processing unit 200 is implemented using electronic components such as a processor (CPU, GPU, ASIC, FPGA, etc.) and IC memory, and controls data input and output with each functional unit, including the operation input unit 100 and the storage unit 500. It then executes various calculation processes based on predetermined programs, data, operation input signals from the operation input unit 100, etc., to comprehensively control the operation of the game device 1200. The control board 1250 in Figure 1 corresponds to this.

The processing unit 200 includes a user management unit 202, a game management unit 210, a timing unit 280, a sound generation unit 290, an image generation unit 292, and a communication control unit 294. Of course, other functional units may also be included as appropriate.

The User Management Unit 202 handles the registration process for players and manages the storage of various information associated with user accounts. Specifically, the User Management Unit 202 performs the following tasks: (1) assigning unique user accounts and setting passwords to registered users, (2) storing and managing user-specific play history data, and (3) user authentication at the start of gameplay.

User registration may be performed outside of the game device 1200. For example, users may register in advance on a designated website. The user management unit 202 performs user authentication processing before the game starts. The user authentication method can be selected as appropriate. For example, a user authentication screen may be displayed on the touch panel 1214, prompting the player to enter their registered account and password. Alternatively, a code containing the account and password (e.g., a 2D code) may be displayed on an information processing device such as a smartphone held by the player, and read by the code reader 1213. Furthermore, if the account and password are stored on a plastic card with an information storage medium such as an IC chip or magnetic tape (a so-called membership card), a corresponding reader may be provided on the casing 1201, and the account and password may be read by this reader.

The game management unit 210 performs various processes related to game execution management. The game management unit 210 includes a game progress control unit 220 and a game image display control unit 240.

The game progress control unit 220 controls virtual fishing gear (e.g., float 7; underwater item) to set one of the multiple underwater layers in the game image W2 as the target layer, and controls the progress of the fishing gameplay in the target layer.

Specifically, the game progress control unit 220 includes a game stage setting unit 221, a switching control unit 222, an underwater item deployment control unit 223, a surface object change control unit 224, an object movement control unit 225, a hit detection unit 226, a battle performance control unit 227, a fishing control unit 228, a miss detection unit 229, and a skill control unit 230.

The game stage setting unit 221 sets the game stage by defining one of the following: a location, environment, or time of day for virtual fishing.

The switching control unit 222 sets the initial target layer to the surface layer and controls the switching of the target layer from among multiple underwater layers based on the player's input.

The underwater item deployment control unit 223 controls the underwater item to sink or float in response to the switching of the target layer. This corresponds to the control of the sinking/floating of the virtual float 7 (see Figure 4).

The surface object modification control unit 224 controls the modification of one of the following: the type, number, or size of the surface objects, when the target layer is deep. This includes controlling the modification of one of the types, number, or size of the surface fish 25.

The object motion control unit 225 controls the movement of moving objects such as the deep-sea fish 22 and the surface fish 25 (for example, movement control to make the deep-sea fish 22 and surface fish 25 appear to be swimming, movement control to gradually bring the hit fish closer to the water surface, etc.).

The hit determination unit 226 selects candidate object types that will become hit objects. Then, from these candidate object types, it refers to information on acquired object types that the player has previously caught, and performs a lottery to increase the probability of selecting an object type that has not been acquired as a hit object. This determines whether a hit occurred and the object type of the hit object. This process includes selecting candidate fish types and selecting from the candidate fish types related to the selection of the hit fish.

The battle performance control unit 227 controls the display position of the hit object (hit fish) in the game image W2 from a top view.
The fishing control unit 228 controls the fishing speed according to the depth at which the hit object (hit fish) is located.

The miss detection unit 229 determines whether the hit object (hit fish) has come off the rig.
The technique control unit 230 performs control to improve the probability of catching a hit object (hit fish) in response to the player's operation to activate a predetermined technique.

The game image display control unit 240 controls the display of the game image W2, which shows a view overlooking the water surface (see Figure 2). Specifically, the game image display control unit 240 generates a deep image 23 and a surface image 26, and then applies predetermined image processing to the deep image 23 to change its visibility, thereby generating the game image W2. More specifically, the game image display control unit 240 generates a game image with the images layered in the following order: 1) a given deep background image, 2) a deep image with distortion processing applied, 3) a surface image, and 4) a given water surface image (see Figure 5).

More specifically, the game image display control unit 240 is:
(1) Color adjustment of deep background image 21 and/or deep image 23 according to the game stage,
(2) Control to process distortion according to the size of the deep-sea fish 22 in the deep-sea image 23 (distortion processing in Figure 5),
(3) Control to change the clarity of the display of the hit fish according to the depth where the hit fish is located (distortion processing in Figure 5 and modification of the fish shadow display model 8 in Figure 7),
(4) Control to gradually change the display form of the float 7 according to the depth in which the float 7 is located (see Figure 4),
(5) Control to display a given effect 73 when the float 7 undergoes a gradual change (see Figure 4),
Perform.

The timing unit 280 uses the system clock to perform various timing operations, such as determining the current date and time and setting time limits.

The sound generation unit 290 is implemented by executing ICs and software that generate and decode audio data, generating or decoding audio data such as operation sounds, sound effects, and background music related to game execution. The audio signal is then output to the sound output unit 390.

The sound output unit 390 outputs sound. The speaker 1208 in Figure 1 corresponds to this.

The image generation unit 292 generates an image to be displayed on the image display unit 392 and outputs the image signal. This function relates to the generation of the game image W2.

The image display unit 392 is implemented using a device that displays images, such as a flat panel display, a head-mounted display, or a projector. The flat panel display 1206 in Figure 1 is an example of this.

The communication control unit 294 performs data processing related to data communication and enables data exchange with external devices via the communication unit 394.

The communication unit 394 connects to the network to enable communication with external devices. This is achieved, for example, by a wireless communication device, modem, TA (terminal adapter), wired communication cable jacks, and control circuits. In the example in Figure 1, the communication device 1253 corresponds to this unit.

The memory unit 500 stores programs and various data necessary to enable the processing unit 200 to comprehensively control the game device 1200. It also serves as a workspace for the processing unit 200, temporarily storing calculation results performed by the processing unit 200 according to various programs. This function can be implemented using, for example, IC memory such as RAM or ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs, or online storage. In the example in Figure 1, the IC memory 1252 corresponds to this.

Figure 11 shows examples of programs and data stored in the memory unit 500.
The memory unit 500 stores program 501, game stage initial setup data 510, user management data 600, play data 700, and the current date and time 900. The server memory unit 500s also stores other programs and data (such as timers, counters, and various flags) as appropriate.

Figure 12 shows an example of the data structure of the game stage initial setup data 510.
Multiple game stages are available, each differing in at least one of the following: the location, environment, or time of day for virtual fishing. The game stage initial setup data 510 includes a stage ID 511, deep background image data 513 which is the data for the deep background image 21, distortion processing filter data 515, surface background image data 517 which is the data for the surface background image 24, surface image data 519 which is the data for the water surface image 27, deep fish definition data 520 prepared for each species of deep fish 22 that can appear in the game stage, surface fish definition data 530 prepared for each species of surface fish 25 that can appear in the game stage, and float definition data 540 which stores various data related to the float 7 (see Figure 5). Of course, other data can also be included as appropriate.

One deep-sea fish definition data set 520 includes the fish species 521, the fish species selection condition data 522, the display clarity setting data 523, the hit probability 524, the catch probability 525, and the miss probability 527. Of course, other data can also be included as appropriate.

The fish species selection condition data 522 defines the conditions that must be met to select the deep-sea fish in question. For example, these conditions may include virtual time, total number of players, number of players who have set their target layer to deep-sea, and fish species that players have previously caught.

The display clarity-specific setting data 523 is prepared separately for each display clarity level (see Figure 7) and stores various data related to how the deep-sea fish 22 is displayed at that level. For example, the display clarity-specific setting data 523 stores the display clarity ID, the applicable depth (indicating the range of depths to which the setting data applies), the fish's size, initial strength value, fish shadow display model data, movement pattern data for movement control, battle pattern data for battle control, escape display pattern data, and so on. Multiple types of each pattern data may be provided.

The catch probability of 525 is defined as a function that takes the fish's strength value and the casting distance L as variables. The probability increases as the strength value decreases, and as the casting distance L decreases (the shallower the fish is), the probability also increases. However, for some fish species, there may be a setting where the probability decreases as the casting distance L decreases.

When the fish shadow display model data is generated by rendering the game image W2 as 3DCG, it will consist of 3DCG object models and textures. When the fish shadow is represented as a 2D image, it will be implemented using a set of 2D still images corresponding to each frame of a 2D animation, prepared separately for movement pattern data, battle pattern data, and escape pattern data.

The surface fish definition data 530 basically has the same data structure as the deep-sea fish definition data 520. However, the data corresponding to the display clarity setting data 523 is omitted, and one display model data (corresponding to display clarity "4") for displaying the surface fish 25 is stored.

The float definition data 540 is definition data for a float, which is an example of an item deployed underwater, and stores various definition data related to the float 7 (see Figures 2 to 4). For example, it stores data for the surface model 71, the deep-water model 72, and the effect 73 of the float 7.

Returning to Figure 11, the user management data 600 is prepared for each user who has completed the prescribed user registration procedure, and stores various data related to that user. One user management data 600 includes the user account 601, password 602, play history data 603, and acquired fish species information 605. Of course, other data can also be included as appropriate.

Play history data 603 is created for each game play session and stores data such as the date and time of play, a list of catches by fish species (types of fish caught), a list of acquired items, and points earned.

The acquired fish species information 605 stores the previously caught fish species (types of acquired fish; types of acquired objects determined to have been acquired from among the catchable objects) and the number of fish caught, associating them with each other. For example, the acquired fish species information 605 is a list that associates the number of fish caught for each fish species appearing in the game, and is updated each time a fish is caught.

The play data 700 stores various data related to game progress control and game image display control. For example, as shown in Figure 13, the play data 700 includes an applicable stage ID 701 indicating the game stage currently being used in gameplay, a virtual time 703 indicating the time in the game world, deep-sea fish management data 710 created for each deep-sea fish 22 displayed in the game image W2, surface fish management data 712 created for each surface fish 25 displayed in the game image W2, player management data 714 created for each player, float management data 716 created for each player, hit fish management data 718 created for each hit fish, and game image display control data 720 that stores various data for generating the game image W2. Of course, other data can also be included as appropriate.

The virtual time 703 is automatically controlled to evolve differently from the current date and time 900.

The deep-sea fish management data 710 consists of data for deep-sea fish 22 selected from among candidate fish species that satisfy the fish species selection condition data 522, based on the deep-sea fish definition data 520 (see Figure 12) for the game stage indicated by the application stage ID 701. For example, it includes fish ID, fish species, display position, depth, posture, motion control data, etc. Note that when generating game images using so-called 3DCG, which renders the appearance of a three-dimensional virtual space where objects are placed, the display position and depth may be replaced with the placement position in the three-dimensional coordinate system of the three-dimensional virtual space.

The surface fish management data 712 consists of data for 25 surface fish selected from among the candidate fish species that satisfy the fish species selection criteria, based on the fish species defined in the surface fish definition data 530 (see Figure 12) for the game stage indicated by the application stage ID 701. For example, it includes fish ID, fish species, display position, depth, posture, motion control data, etc.

The player management data 714 stores the player ID, the station ID indicating the station 1210 being used, the float ID indicating the float 7 of the player, the distance L of the virtual fishing line released from the player's virtual fishing rod, target layer information indicating the target layer, etc.

The float management data 716 is management data for underwater items used by the player, and stores the float ID, the player ID to which the float is associated, the display position, the depth, etc.

The hit fish management data 718 is management data for hit objects, and stores the fish ID, fish species, player ID, applicable fish shadow display model data, strength value, depth, etc., indicating the fish (object) that was designated as a hit fish among the objects that can be caught.

Figures 14 to 16 are flowcharts illustrating the processing flow in the game device 1200.
As shown in Figure 14, the game device 1200 first determines whether the conditions for updating the game stage have been met. For example, it determines that the conditions for updating the game stage have been met when the game is started, when no one is playing, or when a predetermined period of time has passed without anyone playing.

Then, if the conditions for updating the game stage are met (YES in step S6), the game device 1200 selects a game stage, sets the virtual time 703, and starts time progression (step S8). The game stage may be selected randomly, or stage selection conditions may be set in advance for each game stage, and a game stage that satisfies those conditions may be selected.

Next, it is determined whether the fish species selection criteria are met (step S10). The fish species selection criteria can include, for example, when the game starts, when a game stage is re-selected, or when the virtual time 703 in that game stage indicates a predetermined time.

If the fish species selection conditions are met (YES in step S10), the game device 1200 selects the deep-sea fish 22 and surface fish 25 to be displayed in the game image W2 (step S12), and sets the depth of the deep-sea fish 22 to a predetermined depth value (step S14). The placement positions may be determined randomly. One of the operation control patterns is selected.

Next, the game device 1200 adjusts the color tones of the deep-sea background image 21 and the deep-sea fish 22 (step S16), and starts controlling the movement of the deep-sea fish 22 and surface fish 25 to be displayed (step S18). Then, it starts generating the game image W2 (see Figure 2) and controlling its display on the flat panel display 1206 (step S20).

The game device 1200 monitors the start of play. For example, when payment of a predetermined play fee is detected by the play fee payment device 1212, the game device considers that a start of play has occurred. Then, upon detecting the start of play (YS in step S30), the game device 1200 performs user authentication (step S32).

During user authentication, the game device 1200 displays a user authentication screen on the touch panel 1214 and accepts the input of a user account and password. If there is corresponding user management data 600, player management data 714 is created based on that user management data 600. The target layer is initially set to "surface layer," and the payout distance L is initially set to "0" (see Figure 13). The user authentication screen also accepts new user registration operations. If a new user registration operation is performed, the game device 1200 executes a predetermined new user registration process to create new user management data 600 and player management data 714. Furthermore, the user authentication screen also accepts the operation to start playing without new user registration. In other words, players can register as users at their discretion.

Next, when the game device 1200 detects a predetermined rod-swinging operation by a player with a rod extension distance L = 0, such as swinging the tip of the fishing rod forward (YES in step S40), the game device 1200 initializes the player's target layer to "surface layer" and initializes the rod extension distance L to the initial value for each target layer (step S42), and starts displaying the float 7 corresponding to that player (step S44). That is, new float management data 716 is created, and the new float 7 is displayed in the game image W2 using the surface layer model 71 (see Figure 4).

Moving to Figure 15, when a target layer switching operation is detected (YES in step S60), the game device 1200 switches the target layer setting for the player who performed the switching operation (step S62). It then performs display control for the sinking or rising of the player's float 7 (see Figure 4; step S64), and changes the player's payout distance L to the initial value of the current target layer (step S66).

Next, the game device 1200 executes Loop A for each player whose payout distance L ≠ 0, that is, for each player whose float 7 is displayed (steps S80 to S174; Figure 16).

In loop A, a hit is determined for the player being processed (step S82).
Specifically, if the target layer of the player being processed is "deep water," the system refers to the fish species in the deep water fish management data 710 (see Figure 13) and performs a lottery process applying the hit probability 524 (see Figure 12) of that fish species. If selected, this is designated as a hit fish, and hit fish management data 718 (see Figure 13) is created.

If the target layer is "surface layer," the system refers to the fish species in the surface fish management data 712 (see Figure 13) and sets the applicable hit probability for the referenced fish species. The setting of the applicable hit probability refers to the fish species acquired by the target player 605 (see Figure 11). For fish species that have been caught in the past, the hit probability 524 defined in the surface fish definition data 530 (see Figure 12) is used as is. On the other hand, for fish species that have never been caught in the past, the applicable hit probability is a value modified from the hit probability 524 in the surface fish definition data 530 to increase the chances of winning.

Then, a lottery process is performed applying the respective applicable hit probabilities, and the winning fish species is designated as the hit fish, creating hit fish management data 718. The health value included in the hit fish management data 718 is copied from the initial health value in the hit fish's deep-sea fish definition data 520 or surface-water fish definition data 530.

Furthermore, when the target layer is "surface," the selection of the hit fish may be enhanced by adding an element of surprise, such as the possibility of catching the surface fish 25 displayed in the game image W2. Specifically, a population of candidate fish species for the hit fish is created by searching among candidate fish species (surface fish definition data 530 in the game stage initial setting data 510 indicated by the applicable stage ID 701) that are the same size (or similar in size) as the fish species (one or more) in the surface fish management data 712. Then, a lottery process is performed to select the hit fish by applying the hit probability to the fish species included in the population of candidate fish species. Also, whether the target layer is "surface" or "deep," candidate fish may be selected according to the distance from the float 7. The "distance from the float 7" may be the straight-line distance between the display position of the float 7 in the game image W2 (see Figure 2) and a predetermined position on the outer edge of the screen, which is set in advance for each station 1210, or it may be the payout distance L (see Figure 6).

If a hit occurs (YES in step S84), the game device 1200 adjusts the depth of the player's float 7 to match the displayed position of the hit fish (step S86), and then begins subtracting the player's retrieve distance L and changing the depth of the hit fish and float 7 in accordance with the player's reeling operation (step S88).

Furthermore, the game device 1200 initiates winding operations, raising and lowering operations of the fishing rod-type controller 1220, and processing a reduction in the health value of the hit fish according to the time elapsed since the hit (step S90). Also, if the hit fish is a deep-sea fish 22 (YES in step S100), the game device 1200 initiates control of changing the fish shadow display model 8 (see Figure 7) used to generate the game image W2 according to the depth of the hit fish (step S102).

Next, the game device 1200 selects one of the battle patterns for the hit fish and starts controlling the battle (step S104), and starts displaying the rising animation according to the depth of the float 7 (step S106).

Therefore, when a fish is hooked, the game image W2 displays the hooked fish struggling to escape, letting the player know that they have a hit. Simultaneously, a notification indicating the hookup may be displayed near the player's station 1210. After the hookup, when the player reels in the dummy reel 1223, the clarity of the hooked fish display increases accordingly (see Figure 7), and the float 7's display model also changes (see Figure 4). As a result, the player can gradually see the hooked fish being pulled towards the surface, eventually understanding what kind of fish it is, and the excitement of the hookup intensifies.

Moving to Figure 16, after a hit, the game device 1200 performs a miss determination at a random timing (step S110). The miss determination is performed using a lottery process that applies a modified miss probability, where the miss probability 527 for the hit fish is adjusted so that the lower the fish's health value is from its initial value, and so that the longer the time elapsed since the hit, the less likely a miss is to occur.

If a miss is detected (YSE in step S112), the game device 1200 considers the hit fish to be a missed fish and displays the image of the missed fish escaping (step S114). Furthermore, the hit fish management data 718 (see Figure 13) is deleted to remove the setting as a hit fish (step S116), the float 7 of the player being processed is removed from the game image W2, and the release distance L is initialized to "0" (step S118).

The game device 1200 monitors whether the player being processed meets the conditions for activating a special move after a hit. When payment of the special move's activation cost and input of a predetermined operation on the fishing rod-shaped controller 1220 are detected, a positive determination is made that the conditions for activating the special move have been met.

Then, if the determination is positive (YES in step S130), the game device 1200 displays the skill activation indicator 91 (see Figure 9) and the damage indicator 92, and subtracts a predetermined amount from the health value of the hit fish (step S132).
Next, the game device 1200 performs a lottery process applying the probability of catching a hit fish, 525 (see Figure 12), to determine if a fish has been caught (step S134).

If the catch check is unsuccessful, meaning the fish was not caught (NO in step S140), the process returns to step S110. This means the miss check and catch check processes are repeated until the hit fish is either a miss or a successful catch. This repetition can be performed at predetermined intervals, such as every 5 or 10 seconds, or every time the depth of the hit fish changes by a predetermined distance, or every time the casting distance L changes by a predetermined length. The catch probability of 525 is set to increase as the hit fish's stamina value decreases and as the casting distance L decreases. Therefore, the probability settings for the draws performed during the catch process will change according to the gameplay situation. Through the above repetition, multiple draws will be performed before the hit fish is caught.

If the catch is successful in the fishing judgment, that is, if it is determined that the fish has been caught (YES in step S140), the game device 1200 cancels the setting of the hit fish and the display of the float 7, and erases their management data (step S142). Then, it displays a predetermined fishing animation (step S144), updates the fish species information 605 of the player being processed (step S146), and grants the player a fishing bonus corresponding to the type of fish caught (for example, items usable in the game, items or points consumed as skill activation costs, medals consumed as payment for playing, etc.) (step S132). The bonus is of higher value when a deep-sea fish 22 is caught than when a surface fish 25 is caught.

If the hit detection fails, the game device 1200 subtracts the outward-release distance L of the player being processed in accordance with the winding operation, and updates the depth of the float 7 to bring it closer to the water surface (step S150). Then, if the outward-release distance L reaches "0" as a result of the subtraction (YES in step S152), the display of the float 7 is cleared, and the float management data 716 is erased (step S154).

Next, the game device 1200 determines whether the predetermined play termination conditions are met. For example, if the elapsed time from the start of play reaches a predetermined length, it makes a positive determination that the play termination conditions are met.
If the determination is positive (YES in step S170), the game device 1200 performs a predetermined play termination process for the player being processed (step S172) and exits loop A (step S174).

In summary, this embodiment provides a new fishing game technique that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest.

The game device 1200, when running a virtual fishing game displaying a game image W2 overlooking the water surface, can control virtual fishing gear based on the player's input, thereby determining the target layer among multiple underwater layers in the game image and controlling the progress of the fishing gameplay. In other words, it realizes a new fishing game technology that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest.

The multiple underwater layers include at least two layers: a deep layer where the deep-sea fish 22 are located, and a surface layer where the surface fish 25 are located. The game device 1200 generates a deep-sea image 23, which is an image of the deep layer and includes an image of the deep-sea fish 22, and a surface image 26, which is an image of the surface layer. A predetermined distortion process can then be applied to the deep-sea image 23. Therefore, the player can experience how the appearance of fish swimming in the deep layer appears distorted due to the refraction of light underwater, and can experience catching deep-sea fish. In other words, a new fishing game technology that incorporates underwater depth as an element of interest can be realized.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. The hardware configuration of the game device in the second embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment. In the following, we will mainly describe the differences from the first embodiment, and the same reference numerals will be used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

Figure 17 shows an example configuration of the game device 1200B in the second embodiment. The game device 1200B is classified as a home-use, stationary game device. The game device 1200B comprises a main unit 1202 containing a control board 1250, a first controller 1261 and a second controller 1262 wirelessly connected to the control board 1250, and a flat panel display 1206.

The first controller 1261 and the second controller 1262 both have a stick shape suitable for gripping, and each is equipped with one or more operating switches or levers, along with a controller board 1230.

The first controller 1261 is intended to represent a fishing rod. The player holds the vertically oriented first controller 1261 in one hand, as if holding a fishing rod, and manipulates the rod. The second controller 1262 is intended to represent a reel lever. The player holds the horizontally oriented second controller 1262 in the other hand, as if holding a reel handle, and performs winding operations by rotating it around a virtual horizontal axis Ax2. Skill activation may be performed by operating any of the control switches on the first controller 1261.

One set of the first controller 1261 and the second controller 1262 corresponds to one station 1210. Although only one set of the first controller 1261 and the second controller 1262 is shown in Figure 17, multiple sets can be prepared to enable multiplayer.

Figure 18 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device 1200B in the second embodiment. The game device 1200B is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, but the payment detection unit 110 is omitted compared to the first embodiment.

The processing flow in the game device 1200B of the second embodiment is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the second embodiment provides the same effects as the first embodiment.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.
The third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the game is an online game. In the following, we will mainly describe the differences from the first and second embodiments, and the same reference numerals will be used for components that are the same as those in the first and second embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

Figure 19 shows an example configuration of a game system 1000 for running a fishing game as an online game. The game system 1000 includes a server system 1100 connected via a network 9 for data communication, and user terminals 1500 (1500a, 1500b, ...) for each user. The user terminals 1500 serve as the Man-Machine Interface (MMIF) of this computer system.

Network 9 refers to a communication path capable of data transmission. Specifically, Network 9 includes not only LANs (Local Area Networks) using dedicated lines (dedicated cables) for direct connections and Ethernet (registered trademark), but also telephone networks, cable networks, and the Internet.

The server system 1100 comprises a main unit, keyboard, touch panel, and storage, with a control board 1150 mounted on the main unit. The control board 1150 includes various microprocessors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1151, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various IC memories 1152 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a communication device 1153. Note that part or all of the control board 1150 may be implemented using an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or SoC (System on a Chip).

The server system 1100 functions as a game server by having the control board 1150 perform calculations based on predetermined programs and data.

The user terminal 1500 (1500a, 1500b, ...) is a computer system that can connect to the network 9, such as a personal computer, smartphone, wearable computer, portable game console, home game console, or tablet computer.

In the example in Figure 19, user terminal 1500a shows an example where a stationary home game console executes the client program. User terminal 1500b shows an example where a smartphone 1501 executes the client program.

The user terminal 1500b comprises an operation input device (e.g., touch panel 1506, keyboard, game controller, mouse, etc.), an image display device (e.g., touch panel) 1506, and a control board 1550. The user terminal 1500b is intended to perform gameplay operations via touch operation on the touch panel, but may also have a first controller 1261 and a second controller 1262 as subordinate operating devices.

The control board 1550 incorporates a CPU 1551, various microprocessors such as a GPU and DSP, various IC memories 1552 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a communication module 1553 connected to the network 9. These components on the control board 1550 are electrically connected via bus circuits, enabling data reading and writing, and signal transmission and reception. Part or all of the control board 1550 may be constructed using ASICs, FPGAs, or SoCs. The control board 1550 stores programs and various data necessary to realize the functions of the user terminal 1500b in the IC memory 1552.

Figure 20 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server system 1100.
The server system 1100 includes an operation input unit 100s, a server processing unit 200s, an audio output unit 390s, an image display unit 392s, a communication unit 394s, and a server storage unit 500s.

The operation input unit 100s is a means for inputting various operations for system management. Examples include a keyboard, touch panel, and mouse.

The server processing unit 200s is implemented using electronic components such as a processor (CPU, GPU, ASIC, FPGA, etc.) and IC memory, and controls data input and output with each functional unit, including the operation input unit 100s and the server storage unit 500s. It then executes various calculation processes based on predetermined programs, data, and data received from operation input signals from the operation input unit 100s, thereby comprehensively controlling the operation of the server system 1100. The control board 1150 in Figure 19 corresponds to this unit.

The server processing unit 200s basically has the same functional components as in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the game image display control unit 240 performs control related to the generation of the game image W2 and control for generating transmission data to display the game image W2 on the user terminal 1500.

The sound generation unit 290s is implemented by executing ICs and software that generate and decode audio data. The sound generation unit 290s outputs the generated audio signal to the sound output unit 390s. The sound output unit 390s is implemented by a speaker or similar device and emits sound based on the audio signal.

The image generation unit 292s generates images for various management screens for system administration and outputs the image data to the image display unit 392s. It also performs processing related to the generation of part or all of the images to be displayed on the user terminal 1500, such as drawing and compositing. The image display unit 392s is implemented using an image display device such as a flat panel display, head-mounted display, or projector.

The communication control unit 294s performs data processing related to data communication and enables data exchange with external devices via the communication unit 394s. The communication unit 394s connects to the network 9 to achieve communication. This is achieved, for example, by a wireless communication device, modem, TA (terminal adapter), wired communication cable jacks, control circuits, etc.

The server storage unit 500s stores programs and various data necessary to enable the server processing unit 200s to comprehensively control the server system 1100. The server storage unit 500s also serves as a workspace for the server processing unit 200s, temporarily storing calculation results and other data executed by the server processing unit 200s according to various programs. This function can be implemented using, for example, IC memory such as RAM or ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs, or online storage. In the example shown in Figure 19, the IC memory 1152 corresponds to this. It may also be implemented using online storage.

Figure 21 shows an example of programs and data stored in the server storage unit 500s. The server storage unit 500s of the server system 1100 basically stores programs and data similar to those of the storage unit 500 in the first embodiment, but instead of program 501 in the first embodiment, it stores a server program 503 and a distribution client program 505 for provision to the user terminal 1500.

Figure 22 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the user terminal 1500.
The user terminal 1500 includes an operation input unit 100t, a terminal processing unit 200t, an audio output unit 390t, an image display unit 392t, a communication unit 394t, and a terminal storage unit 500t.

The operation input unit 100t outputs operation input signals to the terminal processing unit 200t in response to various operation inputs made by the user. This can be achieved using, for example, a push switch, joystick, touchpad, trackball, accelerometer, gyroscope, CCD module, etc. In the example shown in Figure 19, this corresponds to the touch panel 1506, the first controller 1261, and the second controller 1262.

The terminal processing unit 200t is implemented using, for example, a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, and electronic components such as IC memory. It controls data input and output between the terminal processing unit 200t and other functional units, including the operation input unit 100t and the terminal storage unit 500t. It then executes various calculations based on predetermined programs and data, operation input signals from the operation input unit 100t, and various data received from the server system 1100, thereby controlling the operation of the user terminal 1500. In the example shown in Figure 1, the control board 1550 corresponds to this unit.

The terminal processing unit 200t includes a client control unit 260, a timing unit 280t, a sound generation unit 290t, an image generation unit 292t, and a communication control unit 294t.

The client control unit 260 performs control as a client in the client-server system. The client control unit 260 includes an operation input information provision unit 261 and a display control unit 262.

The operation input information provision unit 261 generates operation input information in response to the operation input signal received from the operation input unit 100t and performs control to transmit it to the server system 1100.

The display control unit 262 performs various controls to display game images W2, etc., on the user terminal 1500 based on various data received from the server system 1100.

Furthermore, the client control unit 260 may be configured to handle some of the functions of the game management unit 210 (see Figure 19).

The timing unit 280t uses the system clock to determine the current date and time, time limits, and other time information.

The sound generation unit 290t is implemented using, for example, a digital signal processor (DSP), a speech synthesis IC, or an audio codec capable of playing audio files. It generates sound signals for music, sound effects, and various operation sounds, and outputs them to the sound output unit 390t.

The sound output unit 390t is implemented by a device that outputs sound (emits sound) based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 290.

The image generation unit 292t generates various images based on the control of the client control unit 260. For example, it decodes data received from the server system 1100 to generate game images W2. It then outputs image signals for displaying these images to the image display unit 392t. In the example shown in Figure 19, this corresponds to the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and graphics controller mounted on the control board 1550.

The image display unit 392t is implemented using a device that displays images, such as a flat panel display, a head-mounted display, or a projector. In the example shown in Figure 19, the flat panel display 1206 and the touch panel 1506 are examples of this.

The communication control unit 294t performs data processing related to data communication and enables data exchange with external devices via the communication unit 394t.

The communication unit 394t connects to the network 9 to enable communication. This is achieved, for example, by a wireless communication device, modem, TA (terminal adapter), wired communication cable jacks, control circuits, etc. In the example in Figure 19, the communication module 1553 corresponds to this.

The terminal memory unit 500t stores programs and various data necessary for the terminal processing unit 200t to implement a given function. It also serves as a workspace for the terminal processing unit 200t, temporarily storing calculation results executed by the terminal processing unit 200t according to various programs, as well as input data received from the operation input unit 100. These functions are implemented using, for example, IC memory such as RAM or ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, or optical disks such as CD-ROMs or DVDs. In the example shown in Figure 19, the IC memory 1552 mounted on the control board 1550 corresponds to this. Configurations utilizing online storage are also possible.

The terminal storage unit 500t stores the client program 800 (application program) for enabling the terminal processing unit 200t to function as the client control unit 260, the user account 802 as a registered user of the game system 1000, the login password 804, and the current date and time 900. Of course, other data can also be stored as needed. For example, if the client control unit 260 handles some of the functions of the game management unit 210 (see Figure 19), various initial setting data and definition data may be downloaded and stored from the server system 1100 as needed.

The processing flow in the server system 1100 is the same as the processing flow in the first embodiment (see Figures 14 to 16), and the execution entity for each step should be replaced with the server system 1100.

According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[Variation]
Although examples of embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described above, the forms to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above forms, and components can be added, omitted, or modified as appropriate.

(Variation 1)
For example, in the third embodiment, all functions of the game management unit 210 are implemented by the server system 1100, but it is also possible to configure the system based on the third embodiment in which some functions of the game management unit 210 are implemented by the user terminal 1500.

(Variation 2)
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the underwater layer was exemplified as having a two-layer structure consisting of a surface layer and a deep layer, but it may also have three or more layers.

(Variation 3)
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the player himself switches the target layer, but the game device 1200 may also be configured to automatically control this. For example, the target layer may be switched alternately at random timings, or the target layer may be switched when a predetermined amount of time has passed without a hit, or the target layer may be selected and switched at random timings.

(Variation 4)
Furthermore, while the third embodiment exemplified a client-server type as an online multiplayer game, it is also possible to configure the system so that the server system 1100 functions as a matching server, and the matched user terminals 1500 communicate with each other to realize an online multiplayer game.

In this case, as shown in Figures 23 and 24, the matched user terminal 1500 executes a predetermined game program 810 in the terminal processing unit 200t, thereby realizing the functions of the user management unit 202, game management unit 210, and game image display control unit 240, as well as the functions of the information exchange control unit 242 and chat control unit 244.

The information exchange control unit 242 controls the exchange of operation input information and game progress information between matched user terminals 1500.
The chat control unit 244 performs control to enable text chat and voice chat between matched user terminals 1500.

Therefore, each matched user terminal 1500 possesses play data 700 and generates and displays game images W2 independently. Furthermore, based on operation input information and game progress information obtained from other matched user terminals 1500, the system controls the display of other players' information, such as bobber indicators, hit fish, and missed fish.

In this configuration, it is preferable to implement different control methods for displaying the float (7), hit fish, and missed fish, depending on whether the player is using their own machine or another player's machine. For example, when changing the display clarity of the player's hit fish (see Figure 7), all clarity levels from "1" to "4" should be used. On the other hand, for other players' hit fish, the clarity level should be changed from "1" to "2," but not to "3" or "4," thus limiting the changes. By deliberately making it unclear what other players have caught, opportunities remain for players to report their catches directly via chat, allowing for a virtual fishing experience that also recreates the fun of fishing with friends and boasting about catches. Of course, it is also possible to configure the system to fix the display clarity of other players' hit fish at "1," meaning that a different control method is used than the one that changes the display clarity.

(Variation 5)
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the virtual fishing gear that is cast into the water during fishing, i.e., the underwater cast item, is exemplified as a float 7 (see Figure 2), but the underwater cast item is not limited to this. For example, it may be artificial bait (lures, worms, flies, sabiki rigs, etc.), bait, hooks, weights, fishing rigs, tackle, nets, grabbers, etc. The surface model 71 (see Figure 4) may be designed to look like an artificial bait, bait, hook, etc. (for example, a design that imitates real ones, or a fictional design). The deep-water model 72 may be the same as the example in Figure 4 regardless of the type of item, such as artificial bait, bait, or hook, or it may be a slightly modified design such as rounding the corners of the item's outline.

(Variation 6)
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, as an example of controlling the display clarity of a hit fish (hit object), a fish shadow display model 8 (8a, 8b, ...; see Figure 7) is prepared in advance for each display clarity level, and this is switched according to the depth of the hit fish, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

For example, image processing may be applied to the fish shadow display model 8 for a hit fish, according to the display clarity. Specifically, fish shadow display models 8a, 8b, and 8c may be omitted, and only fish shadow display model 8d with a display clarity of "4" may be provided. Then, using fish shadow display model 8d as a base, one or more image processing techniques such as color reduction, contour blurring, contour distortion, noise addition, and image resolution reduction may be applied, with the degree of processing increasing as the display clarity decreases, thus serving as a substitute for fish shadow display models 8a, 8b, and 8c.

Alternatively, for example, this can be achieved by applying image processing to the deep-layer image 23 and surface image 26, which include the silhouette of the hooked fish (see Figure 5). Specifically, the fish silhouette display model 8 of the hooked fish is drawn onto background images (deep-layer background image 21, surface background image 24) that change in depth during the retrieval process to create the deep-layer image 23 and surface image 26. Then, one or more image processing techniques, such as reducing the number of colors, blurring the contours, distorting the contours, adding noise, or reducing the image resolution, may be applied to the deep-layer image 23 and surface image 26.

(Variation 7)
Furthermore, the activation of the technique in the above embodiment may be replaced with the use of an item.

7... Float (item to be used underwater)
8 (8a, 8b, ...) ... Fish silhouette display model 21 ... Deep background image 22 ... Deep fish 23 ... Deep image 24 ... Surface background image 25 ... Surface fish 26 ... Surface image 27 ... Water surface image 71 ... Surface model 72 ... Deep model 73 ... Effects 91 ... Skill activation display 92 ... Damage display 200 ... Processing unit 210 ... Game management unit 220 ... Game progress control unit 221 ... Game stage setting unit 222 ... Switching control unit 223 ... Underwater item deployment control unit 224 ... Surface object change control unit 225 ... Object movement control unit 226 ... Hit judgment unit 227 ... Battle performance control unit 228 ... Fishing control unit 229 ... Miss judgment unit 230 ... Skill control unit 240 ... Game image display control unit 500 ... Memory unit 501 ... Program 510 ... Game stage initial setting data 513 ... Deep background image data 515... Distortion processing filter data 517... Surface background image data 519... Water surface image data 520... Deep-sea fish definition data 523... Display clarity setting data 530... Surface fish definition data 540... Float definition data 600... User management data 605... Acquired fish species information 700... Play data 701... Applicable stage ID
703...Virtual time 710...Deep-sea fish management data 712...Surface fish management data 714...Player management data 716...Float management data 718...Hit fish management data 720...Game image display control data 1100...Server system 1200...Game device 1220...Fishing rod type controller 1500...User terminal W2, W3...Game images

Claims (28)

A game device that runs a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers,
Equipped with,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The aforementioned image processing includes image processing that modifies the visibility of the deep image by a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of the object located in the deep layer.
Game device. A game device that runs a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers,
Equipped with,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates the game image by: 1) generating a deep image which is an image of the deep layer and a surface image which is an image of the surface layer, and applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility; and 2) controlling the image of a hit object that is hit during gameplay so that at least the clarity of the outline of the hit object changes according to the depth in which the hit object is located .
Game device. A game device that runs a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Equipped with,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progress control means reads information from a storage unit that stores information on the types of acquired objects that the player has caught in the past, and performs a lottery that increases the probability of selecting an object type that has not been acquired as the hit object, thereby determining the object type of the hit object.
Game device. The game progress control means performs the lottery multiple times until the hit object is caught.
The game device according to claim 3 . A game device that runs a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Equipped with,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control means, as a battle effect control that changes the top view display position of the hit object in the game image, a) if the hit object is located on the surface, performs battle effect control to move the hit object in one of several directions, including the near and far directions and the left and right directions relative to the player; and b) if the hit object is located in the deep layer, performs battle effect control to move the hit object in a direction along the near and far direction relative to the player.
Game device. A game device that runs a virtual fishing game,
A game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Equipped with,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control means controls the reeling speed according to the depth at which the hit object is located.
Game device. The game image display control means generates the game image in which the images are layered in the following order: 1) a given deep background image, 2) the deep image after the image processing has been applied, 3) the surface image, and 4) a given water surface image.
A game device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . The aforementioned game progression control means sets a game stage that defines one of the following: a place, environment, or time for virtual fishing.
The game image display control means adjusts the color of the deep background image and/or the deep image according to the game stage.
The game device according to claim 7 . The game progress control means determines a target layer among the plurality of underwater layers and controls the progress of the gameplay.
A game device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 . A switching control means that sets the initial setting of the target layer to the surface layer and controls switching the target layer from among the plurality of underwater layers.
The game device according to claim 9 , further comprising: The game progression control means controls the sinking of virtual floats, lures, bait, hooks, weights, fishing rigs, tackle, and other items to be placed in the water (hereinafter referred to as "underwater items") when the target layer is the deep layer.
The game image display control means controls the display form of the underwater-dropped item according to the depth at which the underwater-dropped item is located.
The game device according to claim 9 . The deep image includes an image of the underwater-submerged item when it is located in the deep layer.
The game device according to claim 11 . The game image display control means controls the display form of the underwater item to change in stages, and controls the display of a given effect during the staged change.
The game device according to claim 11 . The game image display control means performs irreversible control that does not control the clarity of the hit object image in a way that makes it unclear, but only in a way that maintains or increases clarity.
A game device according to any one of claims 2 to 6 . The game progression control means, when it fails to reel in the hit object and the hit object becomes a miss object, performs control to maintain the clarity of the image of the miss object.
The game device according to claim 14 . The game progression control means selects candidate object types for the hit object according to the size of the hit object at the time of the hit, and determines the object type of the hit object from among the candidate object types.
A game device according to any one of claims 2 to 6 . The game progression control means performs control to improve the accuracy of catching the hit object in response to a predetermined operation by the player.
A game device according to any one of claims 2 to 6 . A game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control that controls the display of game images,
Game progression control that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers,
Includes,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control includes generating a deep image, which is a deep image, and a surface image, which is a surface image, and generating the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The aforementioned image processing includes image processing that modifies the visibility of the deep image by a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of the object located in the deep layer.
Game execution control method. A game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control that controls the display of game images,
Game progression control that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers,
Includes,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control includes: 1) generating a deep image, which is an image of the deep layer, and a surface image, which is an image of the surface layer, and applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility; and 2) generating the game image by performing control to change the image of a hit object that is hit during gameplay, such that at least the clarity of the outline of the hit object changes according to the depth at which the hit object is located .
Game execution control method. A game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control that controls the display of game images,
The game progress control controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers, and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Includes,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control includes generating a deep image, which is a deep image, and a surface image, which is a surface image, and generating the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control includes reading information from a storage unit that stores information on the types of acquired objects that the player has caught in the past, performing a lottery that increases the probability of selecting an object type that has not been acquired as the hit object, and determining the object type of the hit object.
Game execution control method. A game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control that controls the display of game images,
The game progress control controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers, and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Includes,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control includes generating a deep image, which is a deep image, and a surface image, which is a surface image, and generating the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control includes, as a battle effect control that changes the top view display position of the hit object in the game image, a) if the hit object is located on the surface, a battle effect control that moves the hit object in one of several directions, including the near and far directions and the left and right directions relative to the player; and b) if the hit object is located in the deep layer, a battle effect control that moves the hit object in a direction along the near and far direction relative to the player.
Game execution control method. A game execution control method for controlling the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control that controls the display of game images,
The game progress control controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers, and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
Includes,
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control includes generating a deep image, which is a deep image, and a surface image, which is a surface image, and generating the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The aforementioned game progression control includes controlling the retrieval speed according to the depth at which the hit object is located.
Game execution control method. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers.
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The aforementioned image processing includes image processing that modifies the visibility of the deep image by a degree of distortion corresponding to the size of the object located in the deep layer.
program. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers.
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates the game image by: 1) generating a deep image which is an image of the deep layer and a surface image which is an image of the surface layer, and applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility; and 2) controlling the image of a hit object that is hit during gameplay so that at least the clarity of the outline of the hit object changes according to the depth in which the hit object is located .
program. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progress control means reads information from a storage unit that stores information on the types of acquired objects that the player has caught in the past, and performs a lottery that increases the probability of selecting an object type that has not been acquired as the hit object, thereby determining the object type of the hit object.
program. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control means, as a battle effect control that changes the top view display position of the hit object in the game image, a) if the hit object is located on the surface, performs battle effect control to move the hit object in one of several directions, including the near and far directions and the left and right directions relative to the player; and b) if the hit object is located in the deep layer, performs battle effect control to move the hit object in a direction along the near and far direction relative to the player.
program. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means that controls the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers and controls the movement of hit objects that are hit during the gameplay, gradually bringing them closer to the water surface .
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates a deep image, which is the deep layer image, and a surface image, which is the surface layer image, and generates the game image by applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility.
The game progression control means controls the reeling speed according to the depth at which the hit object is located.
program. A program that allows a computer to control the execution of a virtual fishing game,
Game image display control means for controlling the display of game images,
A game progression control means for controlling the progress of fishing gameplay in multiple underwater layers.
The computer is made to function as follows:
The aforementioned fishing game is a multiplayer game in which one player and other players can play simultaneously.
The aforementioned multiple underwater layers include at least a deep layer and a surface layer, and an object to be fished exists in any of the underwater layers.
The game image display control means generates the game image by: 1) generating a deep image, which is an image of the deep layer, and a surface image, which is an image of the surface layer , and applying predetermined image processing to the deep image to change its visibility; and 2) when an object is hit by the player's gameplay, controlling the display clarity of the hit object according to the depth at which the hit object is located, and when an object is hit by another player's gameplay, performing control different from the control that changes the display clarity of the hit object .
program.