U.S. Pat. No. 8,678,935

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference toFIG. 1, an apparatus for executing a game program according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Hereinafter, in order to give a specific explanation, a description will be given using a game system including a stationary game apparatus body5that is an example of the above apparatus.FIG. 1is an external view showing an example of a game system1including a stationary game apparatus3.FIG. 2is a block diagram showing an example of the game apparatus body5. The game system1will be described below.

As shown inFIG. 1, the game system1includes: a home-use television receiver2(hereinafter referred to as a monitor2) that is an example of display means; and the stationary game apparatus3that is connected to the monitor2via a connection cord. The monitor2has loudspeakers2afor outputting, in the form of sound, an audio signal outputted from the game apparatus3. The game apparatus3includes: an optical disc4having the game program stored thereon; the game apparatus body5having a computer for executing the game program of the optical disc4to output and display a game screen on the monitor2; and a controller7for providing the game apparatus body5with necessary operation information for a game in which a character or the like displayed in the game screen is controlled.

The game apparatus body5includes a wireless controller module19therein (seeFIG. 2). The wireless controller module19receives data wirelessly transmitted from the controller7, and transmits data from the game apparatus body5to the controller7. In this manner, the controller7and the game apparatus body5are connected to each other by wireless communication. Further, the optical disc4as an example of an exchangeable information storage medium is detachably mounted on the game apparatus body5.

On the game apparatus body5, a flash memory17(seeFIG. 2) is mounted. The flash memory17acts as a backup memory for fixedly storing such data as save data. The game apparatus body5executes the game program or the like stored in the optical disc4, and displays a result thereof as a game image on the monitor2. The game program to be executed may be prestored not only in the optical disc4, but also in the flash memory17. The game apparatus body5may reproduce a state of the game played in the past, by using the save data stored in the flash memory17, and display an image of the reproduced game state on the monitor2. A player of the game apparatus3can enjoy advancing in the game by operating the controller7while watching the game image displayed on the monitor2.

By using the technology of, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), the controller7wirelessly transmits transmission data, such as operation information and biological information, to the game apparatus body5having the wireless controller module19therein. The controller7includes a core unit70and a vital sensor76. The core unit70and the vital sensor76are connected to each other via a flexible connection cable79. The core unit70is operation means mainly for controlling an object or the like displayed on a display screen of the monitor2. The vital sensor76is attached to a player's body (e.g., to a player's finger). The vital sensor76obtains biological signals from the player, and sends the biological signals to the core unit70via the connection cable79. The core unit70includes: a housing that is small enough to be held by one hand; and a plurality of operation buttons (including a cross key, a stick, or the like) that are exposed at a surface of the housing. As described later in detail, the core unit70includes an imaging information calculation section74for taking an image of a view viewed from the core unit70. As an example of imaging targets of the imaging information calculation section74, two LED modules8L and8R (hereinafter referred to as “markers8L and8R”) are provided in the vicinity of the display screen of the monitor2. These markers8L and8R each output, for example, infrared light forward from the monitor2. The controller7(e.g., the core unit70) is capable of receiving, via a communication section75, transmission data wirelessly transmitted from the wireless controller module19of the game apparatus body5, and generating a sound or vibration based on the transmission data.

Note that, in this embodiment, the core unit70and the vital sensor76are connected to each other via the flexible connection cable79. However, the connection cable79can be eliminated by mounting a wireless unit on the vital sensor76. For example, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) unit mounted on the vital sensor76as a wireless unit enables transmission of biological signals from the vital sensor76to the core unit70or to the game apparatus body5is enabled. Further, the core unit70and the vital sensor76may be integrated, by fixedly providing the vital sensor76on the core unit70. In this case, the player can use the vital sensor76integrated with the core unit70.

Next, an internal configuration of the game apparatus body5will be described with reference toFIG. 2.FIG. 2is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the game apparatus body5. The game apparatus body5has a CPU (Central Processing Unit)10, a system LSI (Large Scale Integration)11, an external main memory12, a ROM/RTC (Read Only Memory/Real Time Clock)13, a disc drive14, an AV-IC (Audio Video-Integrated Circuit)15, and the like.

The CPU10performs game processing by executing the game program stored in the optical disc4, and acts as a game processor. The CPU10is connected to the system LSI11. In addition to the CPU10, the external main memory12, the ROM/RTC13, the disc drive14, and the AV-IC15are connected to the system LSI11. The system LSI11performs processing such as: controlling data transfer among components connected to the system LSI11; generating an image to be displayed; obtaining data from external devices; and the like. An internal configuration of the system LSI11will be described later. The external main memory12that is a volatile memory stores a program, for example, the game program loaded from the optical disc4, or a game program loaded from the flash memory17, and also stores various data. The external main memory12is used as a work area or buffer area of the CPU10. The ROM/RTC13has a ROM (so-called a boot ROM) in which a boot program for the game apparatus body5is incorporated, and has a clock circuit (RTC) that counts the time. The disc drive14reads program data, texture data, and the like from the optical disc4, and writes the read data into a later-described internal main memory35or into the external main memory12.

On the system LSI11, an input/output processor31, a GPU (Graphic Processor Unit)32, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor)33, a VRAM (Video RAM)34, and the internal main memory35are provided. Although not shown, these components31to35are connected to each other via an internal bus.

The GPU32is a part of rendering means, and generates an image in accordance with a graphics command from the CPU10. The VRAM34stores necessary data (data such as polygon data, texture data and the like) for the GPU32to execute the graphics command. At the time of generating the image, the GPU32uses the data stored in the VRAM34, thereby generating image data.

The DSP33acts as an audio processor, and generates audio data by using sound data and sound waveform (tone) data stored in the internal main memory35and in the external main memory12.

The image data and the audio data generated in the above manner are read by the AV-IC15. The AV-IC15outputs the read image data to the monitor2via the AV connector16, and outputs the read audio data to the loudspeakers2aembedded in the monitor2. As a result, an image is displayed on the monitor2and a sound is outputted from the loudspeakers2a.

The input/output processor (I/O Processor)31performs, for example, data transmission/reception to/from components connected thereto, and data downloading from external devices. The input/output processor31is connected to the flash memory17, a wireless communication module18, the wireless controller module19, an expansion connector20, and an external memory card connector21. An antenna22is connected to the wireless communication module18, and an antenna23is connected to the wireless controller module19.

The input/output processor31is connected to a network via the wireless communication module18and the antenna22so as to be able to communicate with other game apparatuses and various servers connected to the network. The input/output processor31regularly accesses the flash memory17to detect presence or absence of data that is required to be transmitted to the network. If such data is present, the data is transmitted to the network via the wireless communication module18and the antenna22. Also, the input/output processor31receives, via the network, the antenna22and the wireless communication module18, data transmitted from other game apparatuses or data downloaded from a download server, and stores the received data in the flash memory17. By executing the game program, the CPU10reads the data stored in the flash memory17, and the game program uses the read data. In addition to the data transmitted and received between the game apparatus body5and other game apparatuses or various servers, the flash memory17may store save data (such as result data or progress data of the game) of a game that is played using the game apparatus body5.

Further, the input/output processor31receives, via the antenna23and the wireless controller module19, operation data or the like transmitted from the controller7, and temporarily stores the operation data or the like in a buffer area of the internal main memory35or of the external main memory12. Note that, similarly to the external main memory12, the internal main memory35may store a program, for example, the game program loaded from the optical disc4or a game program loaded from the flash memory17, and also store various data. The internal main memory35may be used as a work area or buffer area of the CPU10.

In addition, the expansion connector20and the external memory card connector21are connected to the input/output processor31. The expansion connector20is a connector for such interface as USB, SCSI or the like. The expansion connector20, instead of the wireless communication module18, is able to perform communication with a network by being connected to such a medium as an external storage medium, to such a peripheral device as another controller, or to a connector for wired communication. The external memory card connector21is a connector to be connected to an external storage medium such as a memory card. For example, the input/output processor31is able to access the external storage medium via the expansion connector20or the external memory card connector21to store or read data in/from the external storage medium.

On the game apparatus body5(e.g., on a front main surface thereof), a power button24of the game apparatus body5, a reset button25for resetting game processing, an insertion slot for mounting the optical disc4in a detachable manner, an eject button26for ejecting the optical disc4from the insertion slot of the game apparatus body5, and the like, are provided. The power button24and the reset button25are connected to the system LSI11. When the power button24is turned on, each component of the game apparatus body5is supplied with power via an AC adaptor (not shown). When the reset button25is pressed, the system LSI11re-executes the boot program of the game apparatus body5. The eject button26is connected to the disc drive14. When the eject button26is pressed, the optical disc4is ejected from the disc drive14.

With reference toFIGS. 3 and 4, the core unit70will be described.FIG. 3is a perspective view of the core unit70viewed from a top rear side thereof.FIG. 4is a perspective view of the core unit70viewed from a bottom front side thereof.

As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the core unit70includes a housing71formed by plastic molding or the like. The housing71has a plurality of operation sections72provided thereon. The housing71has an approximately parallelepiped shape extending in a longitudinal direction from front to rear. The overall size of the housing71is small enough to be held by one hand of an adult or even a child.

At the center of a front part of a top surface of the housing71, a cross key72ais provided. The cross key72ais a cross-shaped four-direction push switch. The cross key72aincludes operation portions corresponding to four directions (front, rear, right, and left), which are respectively located on cross-shaped projecting portions arranged at intervals of 90 degrees. The player selects one of the front, rear, right and left directions by pressing one of the operation portions of the cross key72a. Through an operation of the cross key72a, the player can, for example, designate a direction in which a player character or the like appearing in a virtual game world is to move, or give an instruction to select one of multiple options.

The cross key72ais an operation section for outputting an operation signal in accordance with the aforementioned direction input operation performed by the player. Such an operation section may be provided in a different form. For example, an operation section that has four push switches arranged in a cross formation and that is capable of outputting an operation signal in accordance with pressing of one of the push switches by the player, may be provided. Alternatively, an operation section that has a composite switch having, in addition to the above four push switches, a center switch provided at an intersection point of the above cross formation, may be provided. Still alternatively, the cross key72amay be replaced with an operation section that includes an inclinable stick (so-called a joy stick) projecting from the top surface of the housing71and that outputs an operation signal in accordance with an inclining direction of the stick. Still alternatively, the cross key72amay be replaced with an operation section that includes a horizontally-slidable disc-shaped member and that outputs an operation signal in accordance with a sliding direction of the disc-shaped member. Still alternatively, the cross key72amay be replaced with a touch pad.

Behind the cross key72aon the top surface of the housing71, a plurality of operation buttons72bto72gare provided. The operation buttons72bto72gare each an operation section for, when the player presses a head thereof, outputting a corresponding operation signal. For example, functions as a 1st button, a 2nd button, and an A button are assigned to the operation buttons72bto72d. Also, functions as a minus button, a home button, and a plus button are assigned to the operation buttons72eto72g, for example. Operation functions are assigned to the respective operation buttons72ato72gin accordance with the game program executed by the game apparatus body5. In the exemplary arrangement shown inFIG. 3, the operation buttons72bto72dare arranged in a line at the center on the top surface of the housing71in a front-rear direction. The operation buttons72eto72gare arranged on the top surface of the housing71in a line in a left-right direction between the operation buttons72band72d. The operation button72fhas a top surface thereof buried in the top surface of the housing71, so as not to be inadvertently pressed by the player.

In front of the cross key72aon the top surface of the housing71, an operation button72his provided. The operation button72his a power switch for turning on and off the game apparatus body5by remote control. The operation button72halso has a top surface thereof buried in the top surface of the housing71, so as not to be inadvertently pressed by the player.

Behind the operation button72con the top surface of the housing71, a plurality of LEDs702are provided. Here, a controller type (a number) is assigned to the core unit70such that the core unit70is distinguishable from other controllers. The LEDs702are used for, e.g., informing the player of the controller type currently set for the core unit70. Specifically, a signal is transmitted from the wireless controller module19to the core unit70such that one of the plurality of LEDs702, which corresponds to the controller type of the core unit70, is lit up.

On the top surface of the housing71, sound holes for outputting sounds from a later-described speaker (a speaker706shown inFIG. 5) to the external space are formed between the operation button72band the operation buttons72eto72g.

On the bottom surface of the housing71, a recessed portion is formed. The recessed portion on the bottom surface of the housing71is formed in a position in which an index finger or middle finger of the player is located when the player holds the core unit70with one hand so as to point a front surface thereof to the markers8L and8R. On a slope surface of the recessed portion, an operation button72iis provided. The operation button72iis an operation section acting as, for example, a B button.

On the front surface of the housing71, an image pickup element743that is a part of the imaging information calculation section74is provided. The imaging information calculation section74is a system for: analyzing image data of an image taken by the core unit70; identifying an area having a high brightness in the image; and detecting the position of the center of gravity, the size, and the like of the area. The imaging information calculation section74has, for example, a maximum sampling period of approximately 200 frames/sec, and therefore can trace and analyze even a relatively fast motion of the core unit70. A configuration of the imaging information calculation section74will be described later in detail. On the rear surface of the housing71, a connector73is provided. The connector73is, for example, an edge connector, and is used for engaging and connecting the core unit70with a connection cable, for example.

Next, an internal structure of the core unit70will be described with reference toFIGS. 5 and 6.FIG. 5is a perspective view, viewed from a rear surface side of the core unit70, of an example of the core unit70in a state where an upper casing thereof (a part of the housing71) is removed.FIG. 6is a perspective view, viewed from a front surface side of the core unit70, of an example of the core unit70in a state where a lower casing thereof (a part of the housing71) is removed. Here,FIG. 6is a perspective view showing a reverse side of a substrate700shown inFIG. 5.

As shown inFIG. 5, the substrate700is fixedly provided inside the housing71. On a top main surface of the substrate700, the operation buttons72ato72b, an acceleration sensor701, the LEDs702, an antenna754, and the like, are provided. These elements are connected to, for example, a microcomputer751(seeFIGS. 6 and 7) via wiring (not shown) formed on the substrate700and the like. A wireless module753(seeFIG. 7) and the antenna754allow the core unit70to act as a wireless controller. Inside the housing71, a quartz oscillator (not shown) is provided, and the quartz oscillator generates a reference clock of the later-described microcomputer751. Further, the speaker706and an amplifier708are provided on the top main surface of the substrate700. The acceleration sensor701is provided, on the substrate700, to the left side of the operation button72d(i.e., provided not on a central part but on a peripheral part of the substrate700). For this reason, in response to the core unit70having rotated around an axis of the longitudinal direction of the core unit70, the acceleration sensor701is able to detect, in addition to a change in a direction of the gravitational acceleration, acceleration containing a centrifugal component, and the game apparatus body5or the like is able to determine, on the basis of detected acceleration data, a motion of the core unit70by predetermined calculation with favorable sensitivity.

As shown inFIG. 6, at a front edge of the bottom main surface of the substrate700, the imaging information calculation section74is provided. The imaging information calculation section74includes an infrared filter741, a lens742, the image pickup element743, and an image processing circuit744, which are located in said order from the front surface of the core unit70. These elements are attached to the bottom main surface of the substrate700. At a rear edge of the bottom main surface of the substrate700, the connector73is mounted. Further, a sound IC707and the microcomputer751are provided on the bottom main surface of the substrate700. The sound IC707is connected to the microcomputer751and the amplifier708via wiring formed on the substrate700and the like, and outputs an audio signal via the amplifier708to the speaker706in response to sound data transmitted from the game apparatus body5.

On the bottom main surface of the substrate700, a vibrator704is attached. The vibrator704may be, for example, a vibration motor or a solenoid. The vibrator704is connected to the microcomputer751via wiring formed on the substrate700and the like, and is activated or deactivated in accordance with vibration data transmitted from the game apparatus body5. The core unit70is vibrated by actuation of the vibrator704, and the vibration is conveyed to the player's hand holding the core unit70. Thus, a so-called vibration-feedback game is realized. Since the vibrator704is provided at a relatively forward position in the housing71, the housing71held by the player significantly vibrates, and allows the player to easily feel the vibration.

Next, an internal configuration of the controller7will be described with reference toFIG. 7.FIG. 7is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the controller7.

As shown inFIG. 7, the core unit70includes the communication section75in addition to the above-described operation sections72, the imaging information calculation section74, the acceleration sensor701, the vibrator704, the speaker706, the sound IC707, and the amplifier708. The vital sensor76is connected to the microcomputer751via the connection cable79and connectors791and73.

The imaging information calculation section74includes the infrared filter741, the lens742, the image pickup element743, and the image processing circuit744. The infrared filter741allows, among light incident thereon through the front surface of the core unit70, only infrared light to pass therethrough. The lens742condenses the infrared light having passed through the infrared filter741, and outputs the condensed infrared light to the image pickup element743. The image pickup element743is a solid-state image pickup element such as a CMOS sensor, CCD or the like. The image pickup element743takes an image of the infrared light condensed by the lens742. In other words, the image pickup element743takes an image of only the infrared light having passed through the infrared filter741. Then, the image pickup element743generates image data of the image. The image data generated by the image pickup element743is processed by the image processing circuit744. Specifically, the image processing circuit744processes the image data obtained from the image pickup element743, and detects a high brightness area of the image, and outputs, to the communication section75, process result data indicative of results of detecting, for example, position coordinates, a square measure, and the like of the high brightness area. The imaging information calculation section74is fixed to the housing71of the core unit70. An imaging direction of the imaging information calculation section74can be changed by changing a facing direction of the housing71.

The process result data outputted from the imaging information calculation section74can be used as operation data indicative of: a position designated by using the core unit70; and the like. For example, the player holds the core unit70such that the front surface of the core unit70(a side having a light opening through which light is incident on the imaging information calculation section74taking an image of the light) faces the monitor2. On the other hand, the two markers8L and8R are provided in the vicinity of the display screen of the monitor2. The markers8L and8R each emit infrared light forward from the monitor2, and become imaging targets of the imaging information calculation section74. Then, the game apparatus body5calculates a position designated by the core unit70, by using position data regarding high brightness points based on the two makers8L and8R.

For example, when the player holds the core unit70such that its front surface faces the monitor2, the infrared lights outputted from the two markers8L and8R are incident on the imaging information calculation section74. The image pickup element743takes images of the incident infrared lights via the infrared filter741and the lens742, and the image processing circuit744processes the taken images. In the imaging information calculation section74, components of the infrared lights outputted from the markers8L and8R are detected, whereby positional information (positions of target images) and the like of the markers8L and8R on the taken image are obtained. Specifically, the image processing circuit744analyzes the image data taken by the image pickup element743, eliminates, from area information of the taken image, images that are not generated by the infrared lights outputted from the markers8L and8R, and then determines the high brightness points as the positions of the markers8L and8R. The imaging information calculation section74obtains the positional information such as positions of the centers of gravity of the determined high brightness points, and outputs the positional information as the process result data. The positional information, which is the process result data, may be outputted as coordinate values whose origin point is set to a predetermined reference point on a taken image (e.g., the center or the left top corner of the taken image). Alternatively, with the position of the center of gravity at a predetermined timing being set as a reference point, the difference between the reference point and a current position of the center of gravity may be outputted as a vector. That is, in the case where a predetermined reference point is set on the taken image taken by the image pickup element743, the positional information on the target images is used as parameters representing differences between the positions of the target images and the reference point position. The positional information is transmitted to the game apparatus body5, whereby, on the basis of the differences between the reference point and the positional information, the game apparatus body5is capable of obtaining variations in a signal that corresponds to a movement, an attitude, a position, and the like of the imaging information calculation section74, i.e., the core unit70, with respect to the markers8L and8R. Specifically, when the core unit70is moved, the positions of the centers of gravity of the high brightness points in the image transmitted from the communication section75change. Therefore, a direction and a coordinate point are inputted in accordance with the change in the positions of the centers of gravity of the high brightness points, whereby the position designated by the core unit70may be regarded as an operation input, and a direction and a coordinate point may be inputted in accordance with a direction in which the core unit70moves.

In this manner, the imaging information calculation section74of the controller7takes the images of the markers (the infrared lights from the markers8L and8R in this embodiment) that are located fixedly, whereby data outputted from the controller7is processed in the process on the game apparatus body5, and an operation can be performed in accordance with the movement, the attitude, the position, and the like of the core unit70. Further, it becomes possible to perform an intuitive operation input that is different from an input performed by pressing an operation button or an operation key. Since the above markers are located in the vicinity of the display screen of the monitor2, a position of the core unit70with respect to the markers can be easily converted to the movement, the attitude, position and the like of the core unit70with respect to the display screen of the monitor2. That is, the process result data based on the movement, the attitude, the position, and the like of the core unit70is used as an operation input directly reflected on the display screen of the monitor2(e.g., an input of the position designated by the core unit70), and thus the core unit70can be caused to serve as a pointing device with respect to the display screen.

Preferably, the core unit70includes a triaxial acceleration sensor701. The triaxial acceleration sensor701detects linear acceleration in three directions, i.e., the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-rear direction. Alternatively, an accelerometer capable of detecting linear acceleration along at least one axis direction may be used. As a non-limiting example, the acceleration sensor701may be of the type available from Analog Devices, Inc. or STMicroelectronics N.V. Preferably, the acceleration sensor701is an electrostatic capacitance or capacitance-coupling type that is based on silicon micro-machined MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) technology. However, any other suitable accelerometer technology (e.g., piezoelectric type or piezoresistance type) now existing or later developed may be used to provide the acceleration sensor701.

Accelerometers, as used in the acceleration sensor701, are only capable of detecting acceleration along a straight line (linear acceleration) corresponding to each axis of the acceleration sensor701. In other words, the direct output of the acceleration sensor701is limited to signals indicative of linear acceleration (static or dynamic) along each of the three axes thereof. As a result, the acceleration sensor701cannot directly detect movement along a non-linear (e.g., arcuate) path, rotation, rotational movement, angular displacement, inclination, position, orientation or any other physical characteristic. However, through processing by a computer such as a processor of the game apparatus (e.g., the CPU10) or a processor of the controller (e.g., the microcomputer751) based on the acceleration signals outputted from the acceleration sensor701, additional information relating to the core unit70can be inferred or calculated (determined), as one skilled in the art will readily understand from the description herein.

The communication section75includes the microcomputer751, a memory752, the wireless module753, and the antenna754. The microcomputer751controls the wireless module753that wirelessly transmits transmission data, while using the memory752as a storage area during processing. The microcomputer751also controls operations of the sound IC707and the vibrator704(not shown) in accordance with data which the wireless module753has received from the game apparatus body5via the antenna754. The sound IC707processes sound data or the like that is transmitted from the game apparatus body5via the communication section75. Further, the microcomputer751activates the vibrator704in accordance with vibration data or the like (e.g., a signal for causing the vibrator704to be ON or OFF) that is transmitted from the game apparatus body5via the communication section75.

Operation signals from the operation sections72provided on the core unit70(key data), acceleration signals from the acceleration sensor701with respect to the three axial directions (X-, Y- and Z-axis direction acceleration data), and the process result data from the imaging information calculation section74, are outputted to the microcomputer751. Also, biological signals (biological signal data) provided from the vital sensor76are outputted to the microcomputer751via the connection cable79. The microcomputer751temporarily stores inputted data (the key data, the X-, Y- and Z-axis direction acceleration data, the process result data, and the biological signal data) in the memory752as transmission data to be transmitted to the wireless controller module19. Here, wireless transmission from the communication section75to the wireless controller module19is performed at predetermined time intervals. Since game processing is generally performed at a cycle of 1/60 sec, the wireless transmission needs to be performed at a shorter cycle. Specifically, game processing is performed at a cycle of 16.7 ms ( 1/60 sec), and a transmission interval of the communication section75configured using the Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology is 5 ms. At a timing of performing transmission to the wireless controller module19, the microcomputer751outputs, to the wireless module753, the transmission data stored in the memory752as a series of pieces of operation information. The wireless module753uses, for example, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology to radiate, using a carrier wave having a predetermined frequency, a radio signal from the antenna754, the radio signal indicative of the series of pieces of operation information. Thus, the key data from the operation sections72provided on the core unit70, the X-, Y- and Z-axis direction acceleration data from the acceleration sensor701, the process result data from the imaging information calculation section74, and the biological information data from the vital sensor76, are transmitted from the core unit70. The wireless controller module19of the game apparatus body5receives the radio signal, and the game apparatus body5demodulates or decodes the radio signal to obtain the series of pieces of operation information (the key data, the X-, Y- and Z-axis direction acceleration data, the process result data, and the biological signal data). In accordance with the series of pieces of obtained operation information and the game program, the CPU10of the game apparatus body5performs game processing. In the case where the communication section75is configured using the Bluetooth (registered trademark) technology, the communication section75can have a function of receiving transmission data wirelessly transmitted from other devices.

Next, the vital sensor76will be described with reference toFIGS. 8 and 9. FIG.8is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of the vital sensor76.FIGS. 9A and 9Bare diagrams showing a pulse wave signal that is an example of a biological signal outputted from the vital sensor76.FIG. 9Ashowing the pulse wave signal is a graph in which the scale of values detected by a photodetector (i.e., a vertical axis) in a pulse wave portion of the pulse wave signal shown inFIG. 9Bis expanded.

InFIG. 8, the vital sensor76includes a control unit761, a light source762, and a photodetector763.

The light source762and the photodetector763constitutes a transmission-type digital-plethysmography sensor, which is an example of a sensor that obtains a biological signal of the player. The light source762includes, for example, an infrared LED that emits infrared light having a predetermined wavelength (e.g., 940 nm) toward the photodetector763. On the other hand, the photodetector763senses the light emitted by the light source762, in accordance with the wavelength of the emitted light. The photodetector763is constituted by, for example, an infrared photoresistor. The light source762and the photodetector763are arranged so as to face each other with a predetermined gap (hollow space).

Here, hemoglobin that exists in human blood absorbs infrared light. For example, a part (e.g., a fingertip) of the player's body is inserted in the gap between the light source762and the photodetector763. In this case, the infrared light emitted from the light source762is partially absorbed by hemoglobin existing in the inserted fingertip before being sensed by the photodetector763. On the other hand, arteries in the human body pulsate, and therefore, the thickness (blood flow rate) of the arteries varies depending on the pulsation. Therefore, similar pulsation occurs in arteries in the inserted fingertip, and the blood flow rate varies depending on the pulsation, so that the amount of infrared light absorption also varies depending on the blood flow rate. Specifically, as the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, the amount of light absorbed by hemoglobin also increases and therefore the amount of infrared light sensed by the photodetector763relatively decreases. Conversely, as the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases, the amount of light absorbed by hemoglobin also decreases and therefore the amount of infrared light sensed by the photodetector763relatively increases. The light source762and the photodetector763utilize such an operating principle, i.e., convert the amount of infrared light sensed by the photodetector763into a photoelectric signal to detect pulsation (hereinafter referred to as a pulse wave) of the human body. For example, as shown inFIG. 9A, when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, the detected value of the photodetector763(e.g., a photoelectric voltage obtained when the photodetector763receives the light) increases, and when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases, the detected value of the photodetector763decreases. Thus, a pulse wave portion in which the detected value of the photodetector763rises and falls is generated as a pulse wave signal. Depending on the circuit configuration of the photodetector763, a pulse wave signal may be generated in which, when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, the detected value of the photodetector763decreases, and when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases, the detected value of the photodetector763increases.

When the player's fingertip or the like is not inserted in the gap between the light source762and the photodetector763, the infrared light emitted from the light source762is directly received by the photodetector763with no intervening object. Therefore, in this case, the amount of infrared light received by the photodetector763significantly increases as compared with the case where the player's fingertip or the like is inserted in the gap between the light source762and the photodetector763. For example, as shown inFIG. 9B, when the state where the player wears the vital sensor76at his/her finger and thereby his/her fingertip is inserted in the gap between the light source762and the photodetector763(sensor attached state shown inFIG. 9B) is changed to the state where the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76and thereby the fingertip is not inserted in the gap between the light source762and the photodetector763(sensor detached state shown inFIG. 9B), the amount of infrared light received by the photodetector763rapidly increases. In the example shown inFIGS. 9A and 9B, the circuit of the photodetector763is configured such that the detected value of the photodetector763increases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, and decreases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases. As shown inFIG. 9B, the decrease in the detected value of the photodetector763, which is caused by the change from the sensor attached state to the sensor detached state, is several orders of magnitude greater than the increase/decrease of the detected value, which is caused by the increase/decrease of the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip. Likewise, the increase in the detected value of the photodetector763, which is caused by the change from the sensor detached state to the sensor attached state, is also several orders of magnitude greater than the increase/decrease of the detected value, which is caused by the increase/decrease of the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip.

Accordingly, by providing a threshold value between the detected value of the photodetector763assuming the sensor detached state and the detected value of the photodetector763assuming the sensor attached state, it is possible to detect whether the player inserts a finger in the vital sensor76, i.e., whether the player wears the vital sensor76. For example, when the circuit of the photodetector763is configured such that the detected value of the photodetector763increases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, and the detected value of the photodetector763decreases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases, it is determined that the player wears the vital sensor76if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and that the player does not wear the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value. Further, when the circuit of the photodetector763is configured such that the detected value of the photodetector763decreases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, and the detected value of the photodetector763increases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases, it is determined that the player does not wear the vital sensor76if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and that the player wears the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value. Adopted in the following description is the former case, that is, the case where the circuit of the photodetector763is configured such that the detected value of the photodetector763increases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, and the detected value of the photodetector763decreases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases.

In the above example, whether the player wears the vital sensor76is determined depending on whether or not the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value. However, another determination method may be adopted. For example, in a case where the detected value of the photodetector763is within a predetermined range when the player wears the vital sensor76, and is outside the range when the player does not wear the vital sensor76, it is possible to determine, by using this range, whether the player wears the vital sensor76. Specifically, it is determined that the player wears the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is within the range, and it is determined that the player does not wear the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is larger than or smaller than the values in the range. Of course, also in a case where the detected value of the photodetector763is outside the predetermined range when the player wears the vital sensor76, and is within the range when the player does not wear the vital sensor76, it is possible to determine, by using this range, whether the player wears the vital sensor76. Specifically, it is determined that the player does not wear the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is within the range, and that the player wears the vital sensor76when the detected value of the photodetector763is greater than or smaller than the values in the range.

As another example, whether the player wears the vital sensor76may be detected depending on the amount of change in the detected value of the photodetector763. As described above, the amount of change in the detected value of the photodetector763, which is caused by the change from the sensor detached state to the sensor attached state, is several orders of magnitude greater than the amount of change in the detected value, which is caused by the increase/decrease in the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip. Accordingly, when the amount of change in the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, it is determined that the sensor detached state changes to the sensor attached state, or the sensor attached state changes to the sensor detached state. On the other hand, when the amount of change in the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value, it is determined that the player remains in the sensor attached state or in the sensor detached state. By estimating that the player wears or does not wear the vital sensor76at a certain time point, and determining an amount of change in the detected value of the photodetector763on and after this time point, it is possible to detect whether the player wears the vital sensor76. For example, the estimation as to whether the player wears the vital sensor76at a certain time point may include: estimating that the player does not wear the vital sensor76in the initial state of the vital sensor76; or estimating a switching between the sensor attached state and the sensor detached state in accordance with that the player is instructed to wear or remove the vital sensor76.

The control unit761is constituted by, for example, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The control unit761controls the amount of infrared light emitted from the light source762. The control unit761A/D-converts a photoelectric signal (pulse wave signal) outputted from the photodetector763to generate pulse wave data (biological signal data). Then, the control unit761outputs the pulse wave data (biological signal data) to the core unit70via the connection cable79.

In the game apparatus body5, a biological signal of the player using the vital sensor76is detected by analyzing the pulse wave data obtained from the vital sensor76, and thus various biological parameters of the player can be detected or calculated. The game apparatus body5may detect, as an example of a first biological parameter, a pulse timing of the player (e.g., a timing of heart contraction; exactly, a timing at which blood vessels in a part of the player's body to which the vital sensor76is attached contract or expand) in accordance with rising and falling of the pulse wave indicated by the pulse wave data obtained from the vital sensor76. Specifically, the game apparatus body5may detect, as a pulse timing of the player, a timing at which the pulse wave indicated by the pulse wave data obtained from the vital sensor76represents a local minimum value; a timing at which the pulse wave represents a local maximum value; a timing at which a blood vessel contraction rate reaches a maximum value; a timing at which a blood vessel expansion rate reaches a maximum value; a timing at which acceleration of the blood vessel expansion rate reaches a maximum value; or a timing at which deceleration of the blood vessel expansion rate reaches a maximum value. When the game apparatus body5detects, as a pulse timing of the player, a timing at which acceleration of the blood vessel expansion rate reaches a maximum value or a timing at which deceleration of the blood vessel expansion rate reaches a maximum value, the game apparatus body5may detect, as a pulse timing of the player, a parameter obtained by differentiating the blood vessel expansion or contraction rate, i.e., a timing at which acceleration of blood vessel expansion reaches its maximum value or acceleration of blood vessel contraction reaches its maximum value.

As an example of a second biological parameter, a heart rate HR of the player may be calculated based on the player's pulse timing detected from the pulse wave represented by the pulse wave data. For example, a value obtained by dividing 60 seconds by the interval of pulse timings is calculated as the heart rate HR of the player using the vital sensor76. Specifically, when the timing at which the pulse wave represents the local minimum value is set as the pulse timing, 60 seconds is divided by the interval of heartbeats between adjoining two local minimum values (an R-R interval shown inFIG. 9A), whereby the heart rate HR is calculated.

As an example of a third biological parameter, a respiratory cycle of the player may be calculated based on a rise-fall cycle of the heart rate HR. Specifically, when the heart rate HR calculated in this embodiment is rising, it is determined that the player is breathing in, and when the heart rate HR is falling, it is determined that the player is breathing out. That is, it is possible to calculate the cycle of breathing (respiratory cycle) of the player by calculating the rise-fall cycle (fluctuation cycle) of the heart rate HR.

As an example of a fourth biological parameter, the degree of easiness and difficulties felt by the player may be calculated based on an amplitude PA (e.g., a difference in height between a local maximum value of the pulse wave and a succeeding local minimum value; seeFIG. 9A) of the pulse wave represented by the pulse wave data obtained from the vital sensor76. Specifically, when the amplitude PA of the pulse wave is decreased, it can be determined that the player is in a difficult state.

As an example of a fifth biological parameter, a blood flow rate of the player can be obtained by dividing, by the heart rate HR, a pulse wave area PWA (seeFIG. 9A) obtained from the pulse wave signal.

As an example of a sixth biological parameter, a coefficient of variance of R-R interval (CVRR) of the player may be calculated based on the interval of pulse timings (the interval of heartbeats; e.g., an R-R interval shown inFIG. 9A) of the player, which is detected from the pulse wave represented by the pulse wave data. For example, the CVRR is calculated by using the interval of heartbeats based on the past100beats indicated by the pulse wave obtained from the vital sensor76. Specifically, the following equation is applied for calculation.
CVRR={(standard deviation of the interval of 100 heartbeats)/(average value of the interval of 100 heartbeats)}×100
With the use of the CVRR, it is possible to calculate the state of the autonomic nerve (e.g., the activity of the parasympathetic nerve) of the player.

An overview of game processing performed on the game apparatus body5will be described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 13before a specific description of processes performed by the game apparatus body5is given.FIGS. 10 to 13are diagrams each showing an example of a game image displayed on the monitor2.

InFIG. 10, the monitor2represents a virtual game world in which a player character PC and a determination object JO are arranged. In the example ofFIG. 10, an image that simulates a human hand with its index finger pointing upward is shown as the player character PC, and a crocodile with its mouth open is shown as the determination object JO. Textual information “INSERT A FINGER” that prompts the player to insert a finger in the gap in the vital sensor76is displayed on the monitor2.

When the player inserts a finger in the gap in the vital sensor76, i.e., when the player wears the vital sensor76, the player character PC moves so that the index finger represented as the player character PC is put in the mouth of the crocodile shown as the determination object JO. For example, as shown inFIG. 11, the determination object JO with its mouth open is displayed from the top toward the bottom in the display screen of the monitor2. When the player wears the vital sensor76, the player character PC, with its index finger pointing upward in the display screen of the monitor2, moves upward (along the direction of an outlined arrow shown inFIG. 11) from the bottom of the display screen toward the determination object JO. Then, the player character PC stops its upward movement when the pointing-up index finger reaches into the mouth of the determination object JO.

When the player wears the vital sensor76, time count is started. When a predetermined time period has elapsed, the mouth of the determination object JO is closed. Therefore, if the pointing-up index finger of the player character PC is inside the mouth of the determination object JO, the index finger of the player character PC is bitten by the determination object JO, and thus the player fails in the game (seeFIG. 12).

On the other hand, when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76, i.e., when the vital sensor76is detached, the player character PC moves so that the index finger represented as the player character PC goes out of the mouth of the determination object JO. For example, as shown inFIG. 13, when the vital sensor76is detached, the player character PC, with its index finger pointing upward in the display screen of the monitor2, moves toward the bottom of the display screen (along the direction of an outlined arrow shown inFIG. 13). Then, the pointing-up index finger of the player character PC goes out of the mouth of the determination object JO. If the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76at a too early timing before the determination object JO closes the mouth, it is shown that the player is disqualified in the game. For example, as shown inFIG. 13, if the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76is too early, textual information “COWARD!” informing that the player is disqualified in the game is displayed.

As described above, in the game shown inFIGS. 10 to 13, the game is started at the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76, and whether the player succeeds or fails in the game is determined depending on the timing when the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76, i.e., at the timing when the vital sensor76is detached.

The following will describe in detail the game processing performed on the game system1. With reference toFIG. 14, main data used in the game processing will be described.FIG. 14is a diagram showing an example of main data and programs stored in the external main memory12and/or the internal main memory35(hereinafter, the two main memories are collectively referred to a main memory) of the game apparatus body5.

As shown inFIG. 14, a data storage area of the main memory stores therein operation information data Da, time limit data Db, disqualification period data Dc, player character position data Dd, determination object behavior data De, elapsed time data Df, game score data Dg, biological parameter data Dh, image data Di, and the like. Note that, in addition to the data shown inFIG. 14, the main memory stores therein data required for the game processing, such as data (position data and the like) relating to other objects appearing in the game, data (background data and the like) relating to the virtual game world, and the like. A program storage area of the main memory stores therein various programs Pa configuring the game program.

The operation information data Da includes pulse wave data Da1. The pulse wave data Da1indicates a pulse wave signal (biological signal) obtained from the vital sensor76, and is included in the series of pieces of operation information transmitted as transmission data from the core unit70. Pulse wave data stored in the pulse wave data Da1is continuously updated to latest data in accordance with reception of the operation information transmitted from the core unit70. There is a case where a history of the pulse wave signal corresponding to a time length required for a selected game may be stored as the pulse wave data in the pulse wave data Da1. Also in this case, the history is appropriately updated in accordance with reception of the operation information. Further, the wireless controller module19included in the game apparatus body5receives biological signal data included in the operation information transmitted from the core unit70in predetermined cycles (e.g., every 1/200 sec.) and stores the received data into a buffer (not shown) included in the wireless controller module19. Thereafter, the biological signal data stored in the buffer is read every one-frame period (e.g., every 1/60 sec.), which corresponds to a game processing cycle, and thereby the pulse wave data Da1in the main memory is updated.

In this case, the cycle of the reception of the operation information is different from the processing cycle, and therefore, a plurality of pieces of operation information received at a plurality of timings are stored in the buffer. In a description of the processing below, only the latest one of a plurality of pieces of operation information received at a plurality of timings is invariably used to perform a process at each step described below, and the processing proceeds to the next step.

In addition, a process flow will be described below by using an example in which the pulse wave data Da1is updated every one-frame period, which corresponds to the game processing cycle. However, the pulse wave data Da1may be updated in other processing cycles. For example, the pulse wave data Da1may be updated in transmission cycles of the core unit70, and the updated pulse wave data Da1may be used in game processing cycles. In this case, the cycle in which the pulse wave data Da1is updated is different from the game processing cycle.

The time limit data Db indicates a time period from when the player wears the vital sensor76to when the mouth of the determination object JO is closed. The disqualification period data Dc indicates a time period in which the player is determined as being disqualified in the game.

The player character position data Dd indicates the position of the player character PC in the virtual game world displayed on the display screen. The determination object behavior data De indicates the behavior of the determination object JO in the virtual game world displayed on the display screen.

The elapsed time data Df indicates an elapsed time from when the player worn the vital sensor76. The game score data Dg indicates a game score calculated in accordance with the elapsed time. The biological parameter data Dh indicates a biological parameter of the player, such as the heartbeat/pulse timing or the heart rate, which is calculated based on the pulse wave data Da1.

The image data Dr includes player character image data Di1, determination object image data Di2, textual image data Di3, and the like. The player character image data Di1is data for arranging the player character PC in the virtual game world to generate a game image. The determination object image data Di2is data for arranging the determination object JO in the virtual game world to generate a game image. The textual image data Di3is data for generating a textual image that prompts the player to wear the vital sensor76, and informs the player of the result of the game.

Next, the game processing performed on the game apparatus body5will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 15 and 16.FIG. 15is a flowchart showing an example of main processing executed on the game apparatus body5.FIG. 16is a subroutine flowchart showing an example of detailed processing of a game process shown in step43inFIG. 15. In the flowcharts shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, processes using a biological signal obtained from the vital sensor76will be mainly described, while other game processes that do not directly relate to the present invention will not be described in detail. InFIGS. 15 and 16, each step executed by the CPU10is abbreviated to “S”.

When the game apparatus body5is powered on, the CPU10of the game apparatus body5executes the boot program stored in the ROM/RTC13, thereby initializing each unit such as the main memory. Thereafter, the game program stored in the optical disc4is loaded into the main memory, and the CPU10starts execution of the game program. The flowchart shown inFIG. 15indicates the main processing to be performed after completion of the aforementioned process.

InFIG. 15, the CPU10determines whether a game is selected by the player (step41). For example, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, options indicating a plurality of playable games to prompt the player to select a game. When the player selects to play one of the games, the CPU10advances the process to step42. On the other hand, when the player does not select to play a game, the CPU10advances the process to step44.

In step42, the CPU10determines whether the game selected in step41is a game using a biological parameter. When the game selected in step41is a game using no biological parameter, the CPU10advances the process to step43. On the other hand, when the game selected in step41is a game using a biological parameter, the CPU10advances the process to step45.

In step43, the CPU10executes a game processing using no biological parameter, and advances the process to step44. Hereinafter, the game process performed in step44will be described with reference toFIG. 16.

InFIG. 16, the CPU10performs initial setting (step50), and advances the process to the next step. For example, in the initial setting in step50, the CPU10performs setting of the virtual game world and initial setting of the positions, status, and the like of the player character PC and the determination object JO. Further, in the initial setting in step50, the CPU10initializes the respective parameters to be used in the subsequent game processing. For example, by the initial setting in step50, the virtual game world in which the player character PC and the determination object JO are arranged is displayed on the monitor2, and textual information that prompts the player to insert a finger in the gap in the vital sensor76is displayed on the monitor2(the state inFIG. 10).

Next, the CPU10waits until the player wears the vital sensor76(step51). When the player wears the vital sensor76, the CPU10advances the process to step52. For example, in step51, the CPU10obtains, from the core unit70, data representing operation information, and updates the pulse wave data Da1using the latest biological signal data included in the operation information. Then, the CPU10determines whether or not the value of the pulse wave signal (biological signal) indicated by the updated pulse wave data Da1is equal to or greater than the threshold value (seeFIG. 9B) used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76. The data which is continuously updated and stored as the pulse wave data Da1is data indicating the biological signal (pulse wave signal) outputted from the vital sensor76, and the data indicates a detected value (e.g., a photoelectric voltage) of the photodetector763of the vital sensor76, which is obtained when the photodetector763receives the infrared light. In this example, the circuit of the photodetector763is configured such that the detected value of the photodetector763increases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip increases, and decreases when the blood flow rate in the inserted fingertip decreases. Accordingly, in step51, if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player wears the vital sensor76.

In step52, the CPU10calculates a time limit and a disqualification period, and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10randomly sets a time until the mouth of the determination object JO is closed (a time until a time limit), and updates the time limit data Db using the set time. Further, the CPU10sets, in accordance with the time until the mouth of the determination object JO is closed, a period (disqualification period) in which the player is determined to be disqualified in the game, and updates the disqualification period data Dc using the set period. The length of the disqualification period is shorter than the time indicating the time limit, and for example, it is set to a time length obtained by subtracting a predetermined period from the time indicating the time limit. The disqualification period is set as a period from when the player wears the vital sensor76to when a time corresponding to the calculated length of the disqualification period elapses.

Next, the CPU10moves the player character PC and displays the player character PC on the monitor2(step53), and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger represented as the player character PC is inserted into the mouth of the determination object JO, and updates the player character position data Dd using the changed position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC, based on the position indicated by the player character position data Dd, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2(the state shown inFIG. 11).

Next, the CPU10updates the elapsed time and displays the updated elapsed time on the monitor2(step54), and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10obtains the elapsed time at the current time point with reference to the elapsed time data Df, adds, to the elapsed time, a period (e.g., 1/60 sec.) according to the processing cycle, and updates the elapsed time data Df using the elapsed time obtained after the addition. Then, the CPU10displays the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time data Df on the monitor2. In the example shown inFIG. 11, it is displayed that the elapsed time is 1.85 sec.

Next, the CPU10determines whether the current time point has reached the time limit (step55). For example, the CPU10determines whether the elapsed time has reached the time until the time limit, with reference to the time until the time limit indicated by the time limit data Db and the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time data Df. If the current time point has not yet reached the time limit, the CPU10advances the process to step56. On the other hand, if the current time point has reached the time limit, the CPU10advances the process to step59.

In step56, the CPU10determines whether the player wears the vital sensor76. If the player still wears the vital sensor76, the CPU10returns to step54to repeat the processing. On the other hand, if the player does not wear the vital sensor76, i.e., if the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76, the CPU10advances the process to step57. For example, like in step51, the CPU10obtains the data indicating the operation information from the core unit70in step56, and updates the pulse wave data Da1using the latest biological signal data included in the operation information. Then, the CPU10determines whether or not the value of the pulse wave signal (biological signal) indicated by the updated pulse wave data Da1is equal to or greater than the threshold value (seeFIG. 9B) used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76. Also in this case, the data which continuously updated and stored in the pulse wave data Da1indicates the biological signal (pulse wave signal) outputted from the vital sensor76, and the data indicates the detected value of the photodetector763, which is obtained when the photodetector763of the vital sensor76receives the infrared light. In step56, if the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. On the other hand, in step56, if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player still wears the vital sensor76.

In step57, the CPU10determines whether the current time point is in the disqualification period. For example, the CPU10determines whether the elapsed time is in the disqualification period, with reference to the disqualification period indicated by the disqualification period data Dc and the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time data Df. When the current time point is outside the disqualification period, the CPU10advances the process to step58. On the other hand, if the current time point is in the disqualification period, the CPU10advances the process to step60.

In step58, the CPU10moves the player character PC, and displays, on the monitor2, a game score depending on the elapsed time, thereby completing the process of the subroutine. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger represented as the player character PC goes out of the mouth of the determination object JO, and updates the player character position data Dd using the updated position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC, based on the position indicated by the player character position data Dd, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2. Further, the CPU10calculates a game score using the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time data Df, and updates the game score data Dg using the calculated game score. Typically, the longer the elapsed time indicated by the elapsed time data Df is, the higher the game score calculated by the CPU10is. Then, the CPU10displays the game core on the monitor2, based on the game score indicated by the game score data Dg.

On the other hand, in step59, the CPU10causes the determination object JO to close its mouth, and displays, on the monitor2, a message which informs the player that the player has failed in the game, thereby completing the process of the subroutine. For example, the CPU10sets, in the determination object operation data De, data representing that the determination object JO is caused to behave so that the determination object JO bites the index finger of the player character PC, and causes the determination object JO to behave according to the contents described in the determination object operation data De (the state shown inFIG. 12). Further, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, textual information representing that the player has failed in the game. For example, in the example shown inFIG. 12, textual information “BITTEN!” representing that the player has failed in the game is displayed on the monitor2.

In step60, the CPU10moves the player character PC, and displays, on the monitor2, a message informing that the player has disqualified in the game, thereby completing the process of the subroutine. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger represented as the player character PC goes out of the mouth of the determination object JO, and updates the player character position data Dd using the changed position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC based on the position indicated by the player character position data Dd, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2(the state shown inFIG. 13). Further, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, textural information representing that the player has disqualified in the game. For example, in the example shown inFIG. 13, textual information “COWARD!” representing that the player has disqualified in the game is displayed on the monitor2.

As described above, in the above-described game processing, the game is started at the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76. If the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76during the disqualification period (Yes in step57), that is, if the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76at a too early timing after the player wore the vital sensor76, the player is determined to be disqualified in the game. On the other hand, if the player wears the vital sensor76until the time limit expires (Yes in step55), the index finger of the player character PC is bitten by the determination object JO, and thus the player fails in the game. Accordingly, in order for the player to success in the game and get a high score, the player must remove the finger from the vital sensor76at a timing which is outside the disqualification period (No in step57) and does not reach the time limit (No in step55). Thus, even in the case where the game is started and the success/failure in the game is determined depending on the timing when the player wears/removes the vital sensor76, highly-responsive game processing is realized by directly using a biological signal of the player, which is outputted from the vital sensor76.

Turning toFIG. 15, in step42, if it is determined that the game selected in step41is a game using a biological parameter, the CPU10performs a process to calculate the biological parameter (step45), and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10obtains the data indicating the operation information from the core unit70, and updates the pulse wave data Da1using the latest biological signal data included in the operation information. Then, the CPU10calculates, based on the pulse wave data Da1, a biological parameter of the player, which is required for the game processing in step46, and updates the biological parameter data Dh using the calculated biological parameter. Examples of the player's biological parameter required for the game processing in step46may include: a timing of heartbeat or pulse, a heart rate, a respiratory cycle, an amplitude of a pulse wave, a degree of easiness/difficulty, a blood flow rate, a CVRR, and the like, which are obtained from the player. Thus, various parameters depending on the game contents are considered. These biological parameters must be calculated based on a biological signal repeatedly obtained from the player (e.g., a biological signal continuously obtained from the player per unit time). Therefore, as the pulse wave data to be stored in the pulse wave data Da1, a history of the pulse wave signal corresponding to a desired time length is stored depending on the selected game and the biological parameter required for the game.

Next, the CPU10performs the game processing using at least the biological parameter of the player (step46), and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10performs the game processing to execute the game selected in step41by using the biological parameter of the player, which is represented by the biological parameter data Dh. For example, the CPU10causes the object in the virtual game world to behave in response to the player's heartbeat/pulse timing, or heart rate, and/or changes the color or shape of the object in the virtual game world in response to the player's heart rate. Alternatively, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, the value of the player's biological parameter, or a diagram (graph) that varies depending on the value. Although a variety of other games are considered as examples of the game processing performed in step46, those games are not described herein.

Next, the CPU10determines whether to end the game using the player's biological parameter (step47). The game is to be ended, for example, when conditions for game over are satisfied, or when the player has performed an operation to end the game. When the game is not to be ended, the CPU10returns to step45to repeat the processing. When the game is to be ended, the CPU10advances the process to step44.

In step44, the CPU10determines whether to end the processing of the flowchart shown inFIG. 15. The game is to be ended, for example, when the player has performed an operation to end the game. When the game is not to be ended, the CPU10returns to step41to repeat the processing. When the game is to be ended, the CPU10ends the processing of the flowchart.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 17 to 20, another example of a game processing in step43, which is performed in the game apparatus body5, will be described.FIGS. 17 to 20are diagrams illustrating game images of the other game processing, which are displayed on the monitor2.

InFIG. 17, a virtual game world in which a player character PC and a selection object SO are arranged is represented on the monitor2. In the example ofFIG. 17, an image that simulates a human hand with its index finger bending toward the depth direction of the drawing sheet is shown as a player character PC, and an image that simulates a beehive is shown as a selection object SO. Specifically, the selection object SO represents a honeycomb structure constituted by a comb foundation having a plurality of hexagonal chambers. This game is played by a plurality of players in turns, and textual information “Sasaki's turn” indicating a player in turn is displayed on the monitor2.

Among the plurality of chambers provided in the selection object SO, a target chamber being currently selected (selected area CH) is presented to the player. The selected area CH shows a chamber into which the index finger of the player character PC is to be inserted if the player performs an instruction that causes the player character PC to insert the finger into the chamber. The selected area CH sequentially shifts to other selectable chambers with time. For example, chambers already selected by other players are set as nonselectable chambers, and are displayed distinctively from other chambers. InFIG. 17, the nonselectable chambers are hatched. When the player inserts a finger in the gap in the vital sensor76, that is, when the player wears the vital sensor76, the player character PC moves so that the index finger of the player character PC is inserted into the chamber specified as the selected area CH (the state shown inFIG. 18).

When the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76, that is, when the vital sensor76is detached, the player character PC moves so that the index finger represented as the player character PC goes out of the chamber specified as the selected area CH (the states shown inFIGS. 19 and 20). When the chamber specified as the selected area CH is a correct chamber, a game image in which honey flows out of the chamber is displayed, and thus the player succeeds in the game (the state shown inFIG. 19). On the other hand, when the chamber specified as the selected area CH is a wrong chamber, a game image in which bees fly out of the chamber is displayed, and thus the player fails in the game (the state shown inFIG. 20).

As described above, in the game shown inFIGS. 17 to 20, a selected chamber is determined at the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76, and whether the player has succeeded or failed in the game is clarified when the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76, that is, when the vital sensor76is detached from the player.

Next, the other example of the game processing performed in the game system1will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 21.FIG. 21is a subroutine showing an example of detailed processes of the other example of the game processing shown in step43inFIG. 15. InFIG. 21, each step executed by the CPU10is abbreviated to “S”.

InFIG. 21, the CPU10performs initial setting (step81), and advances the process to the next step. For example, in the initial setting in step81, the CPU10initializes the setting of the virtual game world, the position of the player character PC, the status of the selection object SO, and the like. The CPU10sets at least one of the plurality of chambers of the selection object SO as a “wrong chamber”, and sets the other chambers as “correct chambers”. Further, in the initial setting in step81, the CPU10initializes the respective parameters to be used in the subsequent game processing, and displays the set virtual game world on the monitor2.

Next, the CPU10performs setting of players who will play the game selected in step41(step82), and advances the process to the next step. For example, in step82, the CPU10sets the number, names, and order of the players who will play the game selected in step41, based on an operation by the player, and stores, in the main memory, the data indicating the setting.

Next, the CPU10selects, in accordance with the set order of players, a player in turn, and displays, on the monitor2, textual information representing the player in turn (step83). Then, the CPU10advances the process to the next step. For example, through the processes in steps81to83, the virtual game world in which the player character PC and the selection object SO are arranged is displayed on the monitor2, and the textual information representing the player in turn is also displayed on the monitor2(the state shown inFIG. 17).

Next, the CPU10updates the elapsed time (step84), and determines whether the current time point is the timing for shifting the selected area CH (step85). For example, the CPU10obtains the elapsed time at the current time point with reference to the data indicating the elapsed time, which is stored in the main memory; and adds a time (e.g., 1/60 sec) according to the game processing cycle to the elapsed time; and then updates the data using the elapsed time obtained after the addition. Next, the CPU10determines whether the elapsed time obtained after the addition has reached a predetermined time for shifting the selected area. CH (a predetermined shift time). If the elapsed time has reached the shift time, the CPU10advances the process to step86. On the other hand, if the elapsed time has not yet reached the shift time, the CPU10advances the process to step88.

In step86, the CPU10shifts the selected area CH to another selectable chamber, and displays the selected area CH on the monitor2, and then advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10shifts the current selected area CH to another selectable chamber, and updates the data indicating the position of the selected area, which is stored in the main memory. Then, the CPU10shifts the selected area CH to the other chamber based on the data, and displays the selected area CH on the monitor2.

Next, the CPU10resets the elapsed time (step87), and advances the process to step87. For example, the CPU10resets, to an initial value (e.g., 0), the elapsed time at the current time point, with reference to the data indicating the elapsed time, which is stored in the main memory, and then updates the data using the reset elapsed time.

In step88, the CPU10determines whether the player wears the vital sensor76. If the player wears the vital sensor76, the CPU10advances the process to step89. If the player does not wear the vital sensor76, the CPU10returns to step84to repeat the processing. For example, in step88, the CPU10obtains, from the core unit70, data representing operation information, and updates the pulse wave data Da1using the latest biological signal data included in the operation information. Then, the CPU10determines whether or not the value of the pulse wave signal (biological signal) indicated by the updated pulse wave data Da1is equal to or greater than the threshold value (seeFIG. 9B) used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76. The data which is continuously updated and stored in the pulse wave data Da1is data indicating the biological signal (pulse wave signal) outputted from the vital sensor76, and the data indicates a detected value (e.g., a photoelectric voltage) of the photodetector763of the vital sensor76, which is obtained when the photodetector763receives the infrared light. In step88, if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player wears the vital sensor76. On the other hand, in step88, if the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player does not wear the vital sensor76.

In step89, the CPU10moves the player character PC to the selected area displays the player character PC on the monitor2, and advances the process to the next step. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger of the player character PC is inserted into the chamber specified by the selected area CH, and updates the data indicating the player character position, which is stored in the main memory, using the changed position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC based on the player character position indicated by the data, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2(the state shown inFIG. 18).

Next, the CPU10waits until the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76(step90). When the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76, that is, when the vital sensor76is detached from the player, the CPU10advances the process to step91. For example, in step90, like in step88, the CPU10obtains, from the core unit70, the data representing the operation information, and updates the pulse wave data Da1using the latest biological signal data included in the operation information. Then, the CPU10determines whether or not the value of the pulse wave signal (biological signal) indicated by the updated pulse wave data Da1is equal to or greater than the threshold value (seeFIG. 9B) used for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76. The data which is continuously updated and stored in the pulse wave data Da1is data indicating the biological signal (pulse wave signal) outputted from the vital sensor76, and the data indicates a detected value (e.g., a photoelectric voltage) of the photodetector763of the vital sensor76, which is obtained when the photodetector763receives the infrared light. In step90, if the detected value of the photodetector763is smaller than the threshold value for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player has removed the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. On the other hand, in step90, if the detected value of the photodetector763is equal to or greater than the threshold value for determining whether the player wears the vital sensor76, it is determined that the player still wears the vital sensor76.

In step91, the CPU10determines whether the selected area CH in which the index finger of the player character PC has been inserted in step89is a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber. For example, the CPU10determines whether the current selected area CH is a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber, based on the setting of the selection object SO in step81. When the selected area CH is a correct chamber, the CPU10advances the process to step92. On the other hand, when the selected area CH is an incorrect chamber, the CPU10advances the process to step93.

In step92, the CPU10moves the player character PC, and displays, on the monitor2, a game image representing that the player has succeeded in the game. Then, the CPU10returns to step83to repeat the processing. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger of the player character PC goes out of the chamber specified as the selected area CH, and updates the data indicating the player character position, which is stored in the main memory, using the changed position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC based on the player character position indicated by the data, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2. Further, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, a game image in which honey flows out of the chamber specified as the selected area CH, as a game image representing that the player has succeeded in the game (the state shown inFIG. 19).

On the other hand, in step93, the CPU10moves the player character PC, and displays, on the monitor2, a game image representing that the player has failed in the game, thereby completing the processing of the subroutine. For example, the CPU10changes the position of the player character PC so that the index finger of the player character PC goes out of the chamber specified as the selected area CH, and updates the data indicating the player character position, which is stored in the main memory, using the changed position of the player character PC. Then, the CPU10moves the player character PC based on the player character position represented by the data, and displays the player character PC on the monitor2. Further, the CPU10displays, on the monitor2, a game image in which bees fly out of the chamber specified as the selected area, as a game image representing that the player has failed in the game (the state shown inFIG. 20).

As described above, in the above-described game processing, the selected area CH is determined depending on the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76, and whether the player has succeeded or failed in the game is clarified when the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76, that is, when the vital sensor76is detached from the player. When the player has succeeded in the game, the next player takes a turn. The game is continued until someone fails in the game. In this way, even in a game where one of a plurality of options is selected depending on the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76, and a result relating to the selected option is clarified at the timing when the player removes the vital sensor76, it is possible to realize highly-responsive game processing by directly using a biological signal of the player, which is outputted from the vital sensor76.

As is understood from the main processing shown inFIG. 15, the game apparatus body5is capable of calculating a biological parameter based on a biological signal repeatedly obtained from the player (e.g., a biological signal continuously obtained from the player per unit time), and performing game processing using the biological parameter. In such a game apparatus, it is general to reflect change in the biological parameter to the game processing. However, the use of the biological parameter may deteriorate the responsiveness until the biological signal obtained from the player is reflected to the game processing. The game apparatus body5realizes, even in the situation where the biological parameter is used, highly-responsive game processing by using change in the biological signal used for calculating the biological parameter.

The above-described examples of the games include: the game in which the player competes for the time during which he/she can maintain the state where the index finger of the player character PC is inserted in the mouth of the determination object JO in the virtual game world; and the game in which the player enjoys whether he/she hits a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber using the index finger of the player character being inserted in the selected area CH of the selection object SO. However, the present invention is also applicable to other games. The present invention is applicable to game processing in which predetermined processes are performed according to the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76and/or the timing when the player removes the vital sensor76. For example, an object that will fall after an elapse of a predetermined period of time is arranged in a virtual game world. Then, a game is assumed in which, when the player is wearing the vital sensor76, a player character is arranged at a position beneath the object in the virtual game world, and when the player removes a finger from the vital sensor76, the player character evacuates from the position beneath the object. Also in such a game, the game is started at the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76, and whether the player has succeeded or failed in the game is determined at the timing when the player removes the vital sensor76. Thus, highly-responsive game processing is realized by directly using a biological signal of the player, which is outputted from the vital sensor76.

Further, in the example of the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, if the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76during the disqualification period, the player is disqualified in the game. However, whether the player has succeeded or failed in the game may only be determined. In this case, setting of the disqualification period in step52inFIG. 16is not required, and the processes in steps57and60are not required. Then, in the process in step58, a game score, which becomes higher when the elapsed time is longer, is calculated. Thereby, the earlier the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76is, the lower the game score becomes. Thus, in the example of the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, it is possible to perform setting such that a player who removes a finger from the gap in the vital sensor76at an earlier timing gets a lower score, even without determining disqualification in the game.

Further, in the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, when the current time point has reached the time limit, the index finger of the player character P is bitten by the mouth of the determination object JO, and thus the player fails in the game. However, even after the time limit has expired, the game may be continued, and the count of the elapsed time may also be continued. For example, an object which moves with time after the player wears the vital sensor76is set in a virtual game world, and the movement of the object stops in response to that the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. Then, a game is assumed, in which a target position where a highest score is obtained when the object stops therein is set in the virtual game world, and the score gradually decreases with an increase in the distance between the target position and the position where the object stops. In this case, a time period, from when the player wears the vital sensor76to when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76to stop the object at the target position, may be treated as the above-described time until the time limit. Alternatively, this time period may be treated as a time representing the best timing in the game (best timing period). In this game, a game score is calculated based on a difference from the best timing period, and even after the best timing period has elapsed, the game is continued and the count of the elapsed time is continued. In this game, whether the player has succeeded or failed in the game is not necessarily determined depending on whether the player has reached the best timing period. For example, in this game, only the game score, which is calculated based on a difference from the best timing period, may be displayed on the monitor2, and the rank of the game result may be represented by means of only the game score.

In the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, a game image which informs the player that the game is started is displayed in response to that the player wears the vital sensor76. However, the start of the game may be informed to the player by another method. For example, the start of the game may be informed to the player by only voice in response to that the player wears the vital sensor76. Further, also the result of the game, which is determined according to the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76, may be informed to the player by only voice.

In the game described with reference toFIGS. 17 to 21, whether the selected chamber is a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber is clarified at the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. However, whether the selected chamber is a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber may be clarified independently of the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. For example, whether the selected chamber is a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber may be clarified at the timing when the player wears the vital sensor76and selects one from among the plurality of chambers included in the selection object SO. In this case, the player character PC is moved to the selected area CH in response to that the player wears the vital sensor76, and when the selected area CH is a correct chamber, a game image in which honey flows out of the chamber in the selected area CH is displayed on the monitor2to inform the player that the player has succeeded in the game. On the other hand, the player character is moved to the selected area CH in response to that the player wears the vital sensor76, and when the selected area CH is an incorrect chamber, a game image in which bees fly out of the chamber in the selected area CH is displayed on the monitor2to inform the player that the player has failed in the game.

Furthermore, in the game described with reference toFIGS. 17 to 21, the game image that informs the player of the result of the game is displayed at the timing when the player removes the finger from the gap in the vital sensor76. However, the result of the game may be informed to the player by another method. For example, the result of the game may be informed to the player by only voice in accordance with the timing when the player removes the finger from the vital sensor76.

In the above-described examples of the games, each game is advanced without using a biological parameter of the player. However, a biological parameter of the player may be used in the game. For example, after the player wears the vital sensor76(Yes in step51or Yes in step88), if the pulse wave of the player becomes measurable from the biological signal obtained from the vital sensor76(e.g., if the amplitude PA of the pulse wave, or the heart rate HR becomes calculable), the calculable biological parameter of the player can be reflected to the game.

For example, in the case of the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, the level of disturbance of the player is calculated such that the smaller the amplitude PA of the pulse wave is, the greater the disturbance of the player is; and the greater the amplitude PA of the pulse wave is, the smaller the disturbance of the player is. Specifically, the level of disturbance obtained when the amplitude PA of the pulse wave of the player reaches a maximum value (i.e., when the player is calm) is 0, and the level of disturbance obtained when the amplitude PA of the pulse wave of the player is half the maximum value (i.e., when the player is considerably disturbed) is 100. The maximum value of the amplitude PA of the pulse wave of the player may be updated during the game. In such a case, the level-of-disturbance calculation formula is also updated using the updated maximum value of the amplitude PA.

In the case of the game described with reference toFIGS. 10 to 16, the calculated level of disturbance of the player is reflected to the game. As a first example, the maximum value of the level of disturbance during the game is stored as a disturbance score. Then, the disturbance score is subtracted from the game score calculated in step58to obtain the final game store. Thus, it is possible to realize a game in which the game score is decreased with an increase in the level of disturbance of the player.

As a second example, the level of disturbance of the player is calculated in accordance with the behavior of the determination object JO. Then, the behavior of the determination object JO with which the level of disturbance of the player is relatively high is learned for each player, and the determination object JO is caused to behave based on the result of the learning. For example, it is possible to realize a game in which, depending on the player who plays the game, the determination object JO can be caused to behave so as to increase the level of disturbance of the player.

As a third example, the time limit may be controlled depending on the level of disturbance of the player. For example, if the level of disturbance of the player, which is calculated during the game, is low, that is, if the player is calm, the time until the time limit, which is calculated in step52, is extended in the process of step54. On the other hand, if the level of disturbance of the player, which is calculated during the game, is high, that is, if the player is disturbed, the time until the time limit, which is calculated in step52, is shortened in the process of step54. Thereby, the calmer the player during the game is, the longer the time until the time limit becomes, and thus the player can aim for a high score in the game. For example, it is possible to disturb the player by causing the determination object JO to perform such a feint movement that the determination object JO tries to bite the player character PC. In this case, it is possible to realize a game in which the player competes for how long the player can hold on without being disturbed.

The first example is applicable to the game described with reference toFIGS. 17 to 21. For example, also in this case, the amplitude PA of the pulse wave of the player is calculated based on the biological signal obtained from the vital sensor76after the player wears the vital sensor76, and the level of disturbance of the player who is wearing the vital sensor76is calculated based on the calculated amplitude PA. Then, the maximum value of the level of disturbance during the game is stored as a disturbance score, and the disturbance score is displayed on the monitor2. Thereby, it is possible to clarify not only whether the player hits a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber in the selection object SO but also the level of disturbance of the player during a period from when the player wears the vital sensor76to when it is clarified whether the player hits a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber. Therefore, the situation during the game can be presented to the player. Further, by reflecting the disturbance score in the game to the game score, it is possible to realize a game in which the player competes for not only whether the player hits a correct chamber or an incorrect chamber in the selection object SO but also the player's level of disturbance during the game.

Further, in the above description, a site of the player's body (e.g., a finger tip) is irradiated with infrared light, and a biological signal (pulse wave signal) of the player is obtained based on the amount of infrared light that is transmitted and received through the site of the body. That is, a change in volume of blood vessels is detected by a so-called optical method to obtain a volume pulse wave. Alternatively, in the present invention, the biological signal of the player may be obtained by using sensors of other types that obtain physiological information that occurs when the player performs physical activities. For example, the biological signal of the player may be obtained by detecting a change in pressure in blood vessels which is cause by pulsation of the arterial system, to obtain a pressure pulse wave as the biological signal of the player (e.g., by a piezoelectric method). Alternatively, a muscle potential or a heart potential of the player may be obtained as the biological signal of the player. The muscle potential or the heart potential can be detected by a commonly used method in which electrodes are used. For example, on the basis of a minute change in current in the player's body, the biological signal of the player can be obtained. Alternatively, a blood flow of the player may be obtained as the biological signal of the player. The blood flow is measured as a pulsating blood flow per heartbeat by using an electromagnetic method, an ultrasound method, or the like, whereby the pulsating blood flow is obtained as the biological signal of the player. A vital sensor may be attached to a site (e.g., a chest, an arm, an ear lobe, etc.) other than a finger of the player in order to obtain various biological signals described above. Strictly speaking, there may be a difference between the pulse and the heartbeat depending on the obtained biological signal. However, a heart rate and a pulse rate are considered to be substantially equal to each other, and thus the obtained biological signal can be processed in a manner similar to that of the aforementioned processing.

Further, in the above description, the game processing is performed by using the controller7(the vital sensor76and the core unit70) and the game apparatus body5(i.e., the game apparatus3). Alternatively, at least some of the process steps in the above game processing may be performed by using another apparatus. For example, when the game apparatus3is configured to be communicable with another apparatus (e.g., a server and another game apparatus), the process steps in the game processing may be performed by using the game apparatus3and the other apparatus in a cooperative manner. For example, when a virtual game world is set by the other apparatus, a case is considered where: a pulse wave signal outputted from the vital sensor76and key data outputted from the core unit70are transmitted to the other apparatus; the game processing thereafter is performed on the other apparatus; and then a display process is performed on the game apparatus3. In another example, when a virtual game world is set by the other apparatus, a case is considered where: data halfway through the game processing (e.g., data indicating the position of the player character PC) is transmitted from the game apparatus3to the other apparatus; the process using the transmitted data is performed on the other apparatus; and then a display process is performed on the game apparatus3. In this manner, by performing at least some of the process steps in the game processing on the other apparatus, processing similar to the game processing described above can be realized. In addition, the present invention is applicable to game processing that allows a plurality of players playing with individual game apparatuses to join a virtual game world realized on another apparatus (e.g., an on-line game that is operated on another apparatus and is joined and shared by a plurality of players playing with individual game apparatuses). The above game processing can be performed by one processor included in an information processing system that includes at least one information processing apparatus, or by multiple processors in the information processing system in a cooperative manner.

Further, in the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the stationary game apparatus3. The present invention is also applicable to any apparatus that includes at least a vital sensor and an information processing device for performing a process depending on information obtained from the sensor and the device. For example, the present invention is applicable to a commonly used personal computer, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a hand-held game apparatus, and the like.

Further, in the above description, the core unit70and the game apparatus body5are connected to each other by wireless communication. Alternatively, the core unit70and the game apparatus body5may be electrically connected to each other via a cable. In this case, a cable connected to the core unit70is connected to a connection terminal of the game apparatus body5.

Further, of the core unit70and the vital sensor76constituting the controller7, only the core unit70is provided with the communication section75. Alternatively, the vital sensor76may be provided with the communication section that wirelessly transmits biological information data to the game apparatus body5. Alternatively, each of the core unit70and the vital sensor76may be provided with the communication section. For example, the communication sections provided in the core unit70and the vital sensor76may each wirelessly transmit biological information data or operation data to the game apparatus body5. Alternatively, the communication section of the vital sensor76may wirelessly transmit biological information data to the core unit70, and the communication section75of the core unit70may receive it. And thereafter, the communication section75of the core unit70may wirelessly transmit, to the game apparatus body5, operation data of the core unit70along with the biological information data of the vital sensor76. In these cases, the connection cable79for electrically connecting the core unit70to the vital sensor76is no longer required.

Further, the shape of the above core unit70, and the shape, number, and arrangement or the like of the operation section72arranged thereon, are merely one example. The present invention can be achieved with other shapes, numbers, arrangements, and the like. Further, the shape of the above vital sensor76, and the types, numbers, arrangements, and the like of the components provided therein, are also merely one example. The present invention can be achieved with other types, numbers, arrangements, and the like. Further, the coefficients, criteria, mathematical formulas, processing orders, and the like which are used in the above-described processing, are also merely one example. The present invention can be achieved with other values, mathematical formulas, and processing orders.

Further, the above game program may be supplied to the game apparatus body5not only from an external storage medium such as the optical disc4, but also via a wireless or wired communication line. Further, the game program may be previously stored in a non-volatile storage device of the game apparatus body5. Examples of the information storage medium having the game program stored thereon include a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic optical disk, a magnetic tape, and a non-volatile memory in addition to a CD-ROM, a DVD, and any other optical disc-shaped storage medium similar to these media. Further, as the information storage medium storing thereon the game program, a volatile memory that stores the game program temporarily may be used.

While the invention has been described in detail, the foregoing description is in all aspects illustrative and not restrictive. It is understood that numerous other modifications and variations can be devised without departing from the scope of the invention. It should be understood that the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims. It is also understood that one skilled in the art can implement the present invention in the equivalent range based on the description of the present invention and common technical knowledge, from the description of the specific embodiments of the present invention. Further, throughout the specification, it should be understood that terms in singular form include a concept of plurality. Thus, it should be understood that articles or adjectives indicating the singular form (e.g., “a”, “an”, “the”, and the like in English) includes the concept of plurality unless otherwise specified. Further it should be understood that terms used in the present specification have meanings generally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Therefore, unless otherwise defined, all the jargons and technical terms have the same meanings as those generally understood by one skilled in the art of the present invention. In the event of any contradiction, the present specification (including meanings defined herein) has priority.

A storage medium having a game program stored thereon, a game apparatus, a game system, and a game processing method according to the present invention can realize, in a situation where a biological parameter is calculable based on a biological signal obtained from a player, a highly-responsive game processing based on the biological signal, and are useful as a game program, a game apparatus, a game system, a game processing method, and the like which perform a game processing based on a biological signal and/or a biological parameter of the player.