U.S. Pat. No. 8,708,819

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Hereafter, a description will be given, with reference to the drawings, of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a video game apparatus100in the one embodiment of the invention.

As shown inFIG. 1, the video game apparatus100of the embodiment includes a video game apparatus main body10, a display device50, and a sound transmission device60. The video game apparatus main body10is configured of, for example, an over-the-counter video game machine or a portable game machine. Also, the display device50, being configured of, for example, a television device, a liquid crystal display device or the like, has a plurality of image display portions, which are an upper image display portion51and a lower image display portion52.

The video game apparatus main body10includes a controller11, an RAM12, a hard disc drive (HDD)13, a sound processor14, a graphics processor15, a DVD/CD-ROM drive16, a communication interface17, an interface portion18, a frame memory19, a memory card slot20, and an input interface portion21.

The controller11, the RAM12, the hard disc drive (HDD)13, the sound processor14, the graphics processor15, the DVD/CD-ROM drive16, the communication interface17, and the interface portion18of the video game apparatus main body10are each connected to an internal bus22.

The controller11, including a CPU, an ROM and the like, carries out a control of a whole of the video game apparatus100, in accordance with a control program stored in the HDD13or a storage medium70. The controller11is equipped with an internal timer used for, for example, generating a timer interruption or the like. The RAM12is used mainly as a work area of the controller11. The HDD13is a storage area in the video game apparatus main body10for saving the control program and various kinds of data.

The sound processor14, being equipped with a function of a sound input-output interface which carries out a D/A conversion and an A/D conversion of a sound signal, is connected to the sound transmission device60configured of, for example, a speaker. The sound processor14, in accordance with a sound transmission instruction from the controller11, which is executing a process in accordance with various kinds of control program, transmits a sound signal to the sound transmission device60.

Also, the sound processor14, being connected to an unshown sound input device configured of, for example, a microphone, inputs a sound signal from the sound input device in accordance with a sound input instruction from the controller11. It is also acceptable that the sound transmission device60is built into the display device50or the video game apparatus main body10.

The graphics processor15is, for example, connected to the display device50, which has the upper image display portion51and the lower image display portion52, on which an image display is performed. The graphics processor15, in accordance with a drawing command from the controller11, as well as placing an image in the frame memory19, transmits a video signal for causing a display of the image on the upper and lower image display portions51and52to the display device50. A switching time of the image displayed by the video signal is taken as, for example, one thirtieth of a second per frame.

The storage medium70, such as a DVD-ROM or a CD-ROM, in which a game control program is stored is loaded in the DVD/CD-ROM drive16. The DVD/CD-ROM drive16carries out a process reading various kinds of data, such as the control program, from the loaded storage medium70.

It is acceptable that the storage medium70, apart from the DVD-ROM or CD-ROM, is any kind of DVD (such as a DVD-RAM, a DVD-R, a DVD-RW, a DVD+R, a DVD+RW, a DVD+R DL, a DVD-R DL, a BlueRay Disc, or an HD DVD), or any kind of CD (such as a CD-R or a CD-RW). In this case, it is also acceptable that the video game apparatus main body10includes, in place of the DVD/CD-ROM drive16or in addition to the DVD/CD-ROM drive16, a drive which carries out a process reading and writing the various kinds of data from and onto the storage medium70.

The communication interface17is connected to a communication network80, such as an internet, wirelessly or by wire. Also, the communication interface17is wirelessly connected to another video game apparatus main body10, via an unshown communication unit which has an antenna81. The video game apparatus main body10carries out, for example, a communication with another computer, via the communication network80, using a communication function in the communication interface17, or carries out, for example, a wireless communication with the other video game apparatus main body10, using the antenna81. Consequently, the video game apparatus main body10has a function as a communication terminal.

The input interface portion21, the memory card slot20, and a touch panel40, as an operation input portion (a controller) are connected to the interface portion18. The interface portion18stores instruction data from the input interface portion21, based on an operation by a player of a keypad30, and instruction data based on an operation by the player of the touch panel40using a touch pen41or the like, in the RAM12. Then, the controller11executes various kinds of calculation process in accordance with the instruction data stored in the RAM12.

It is sufficient that the touch panel40is, for example, used laminated on a display screen side of at least either one of the upper and lower image display portions51and52. In this case, by managing and controlling a timing of a display on a side of the upper and lower image display portions51and52on which the touch panel40is laminated, and a timing and position coordinates of an operation of the touch panel40using the touch pen41or the like, the controller11recognizes input information in accordance with an operation input resulting from an input operation by the player.

In this way, by laminating the touch panel40on the display screen of at least either one of the upper and lower image display portions51and52, it is possible, in combination with the keypad30, to carry out an input of a large amount of information, without enlarging an aspect of the player's operation system. Herein, as a kind of the touch panel40, it is possible to use various kinds of heretofore known touch panel, such as a resistive touch type or a pressure-sensitive type. It is also acceptable that the display device50, rather than being one which has the plurality of image display portions, like the upper and lower image display portions51and52, is one which configures the display screen with one image display portion.

The video game apparatus main body10configured in this way, as well as being connected to the touch panel40via the interface portion18, as heretofore described, is connected to the keypad30, which acts as the operation input portion (the controller), via the input interface portion21. It is acceptable that the keypad30is provided either configured integrated with the video game apparatus main body10, or as a separate entity.

For example, a cross key31and a button group32being disposed on an upper portion of a front side of the keypad30, an up key31a, a down key31b, a right key31cand a left key31dare included in the cross key31, while a ◯ button32a, a X button32b, a Δ button32cand a □ button32dare included in the button group32. Also, a select button35and a start button37are disposed on a connecting portion of a base on which the cross key31is disposed and a base on which the button group32is disposed. Furthermore, a plurality of buttons, such as an R1 button36and an L1 button33, are also disposed on a side portion of the keypad30. Apart from this, although omitted from the figure, it is also acceptable that a joystick or the like is disposed on the keypad30.

The keypad30configured in this way including switches linked one to each of the cross key31, the ◯ button32a, the X button32b, the Δ button32c, the □ button32d, the select button35, the start button37, the R1 button36and the L1 button33, and the like, on a pressing force being applied to each button, a corresponding switch, for example, is activated. A detection signal corresponding to an activation/deactivation of the switch is generated in the keypad30. Also, in the case in which the joystick is disposed, a detection signal corresponding to a tilting orientation of the joystick is generated in the keypad30.

The switch system detection signal generated in the keypad30is supplied to the input interface portion21and, by the detection signal from the keypad30being directed through the input interface portion21, it becomes detection information which indicates which button or the like on the keypad30has been pressed. Also, in the case in which the joystick has been provided, the joystick system detection signal becomes detection information indicating a condition of the joystick. In this way, an operation order (the operation input) from a user (the player) performed on the keypad30is given to the video game apparatus main body10.

Also, the interface portion18, in accordance with instructions from the controller11, carries out a process which stores data indicating an implementation status of a game, stored in the RAM12, on a memory card90loaded in the memory card slot20, a process which reads data on a game at a time of interruption saved on the memory card90, and transfers them to the RAM12, and the like.

Various kinds of data, such as the control program, for carrying out the game with the video game apparatus100are stored in, for example, the storage medium70. The various kinds of data, such as the control program, stored in the storage medium70are read by the DVD/CD-ROM drive16in which the storage medium70is loaded, and loaded in the RAM12.

The controller11, in accordance with the control program loaded in the RAM12, executes various kinds of process, such as a process which transmits the drawing command to the graphics processor15, and a process which transmits the sound transmission instruction to the sound processor14. While the controller11is executing the processes, data which originate intermediately in accordance with the implementation status of the game (for example, data which show a game score, a condition of a player character, or the like) are saved in the RAM12, which is used as a work memory.

A three-dimensional video game according to the embodiment is taken to be a game including a portion in which the game is implemented by a plurality of characters such as the player character (PC: a character which acts in accordance with an operation by the player of the keypad30or the touch screen40) moving on a field provided in a hypothetical three-dimensional space displayed on the display screens of the upper and lower image display portions51and52. The three-dimensional space in which the field is formed is taken to be indicated by a world coordinate system. Also, the field being configured of a plurality of planes, it is expressed with coordinates of an apex of each configuration plane as feature points.

Next, a description will be given of an operation of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.

Herein, in order to simplify the description, it being taken that only at least one player character PC and a plurality of non-player characters (NPC: characters which act in accordance with a control by the game machine (specifically, a control by the controller11)) exist as objects which act in the hypothetical three-dimensional space, it can happen that there is a case in which a description of a process other than those particularly related to the invention is omitted. In the embodiment, it is taken that a video game control and communication are executed for an RPG.

FIG. 2is a flowchart showing an example of a main process in the video game apparatus100of the embodiment. The main process being, for example, a process for generating one frame's worth of images, and processes necessary for the control of the video game, it is executed in accordance with the timer interruption every one thirtieth of a second. The heretofore mentioned “one thirtieth of a second” being one example, it is also acceptable that the main process is, for example, executed in accordance with a timer interruption every one field period (one sixtieth of a second) or, depending on a throughput, executed in accordance with a timer interruption every two frame periods (one fifteenth of a second).

In the embodiment, the game being one implemented on a common field on which various kinds of behavior, including the movement of the player character PC and a battle involving the player character PC, are permitted, a stage finishes when a predetermined objective on the field is achieved, and the game shifts to a next stage on the field.

Also, in the embodiment, each character appearing on the field in a battle scene being given an identical time axis, on once appearing, they move on the field or remain stationary on the field, in accordance with the identical time axis, for as long as HP (hit points: a value expressing a life force (a life value)) do not reach zero. In a battle scene in which only one player character PC appears, in the event that the player character PC's HP reach zero, the player character PC is in a condition in which it is unable to do battle, and the game finishes, or another event occurs.

However, in the embodiment, in a case in which, for example, a plurality of player characters PC appear, it is taken that none of the player characters PC is in the condition in which it is unable to do battle unless the player characters PC's HP all reach zero. That is, even in the event that, for example, one player character PC's HP have reached zero, when another player character PC's HP remain, it is possible for each player character PC, including the first player character PC, to maintain a battle condition. A portion which is displayed as a character image on the upper and lower image display portions51and52is a portion existing within a field of view of a hypothetical camera in the field.

In the main process, the controller11determines, if it is before a start of the game, whether or not there has been a game starting instruction via an operation by the player of the keypad30or the touch panel40, and determines, if it is during an execution of the game, whether or not it is time to carry out a situation change (for example, a change of the field) (step S101).

The “game starting” means, when selection menu items such as “game start” and “demonstration” have been presented, a starting of a game by selecting “game start”. Therefore, there is a case in which an opening movie is played before the starting of the game (a case in which it is automatically played by turning on power), and a case in which it is played after the starting of the game (a case in which it is played in accordance with there having been the game starting instruction from the player).

The time at which the situation change is carried out, determined in step S101, means a time at which, for example, in order to finish a situation which has been displayed thus far on the upper and lower image display portions51and52(for example, a situation being expressed by the hypothetical three-dimensional space, or a situation being expressed by a moving image effect created by a movie image), and switch to a new situation, a hypothetical three-dimensional space which shows the new situation is displayed on the upper and lower image display portions51and52.

When it is determined that there has been the game starting instruction, or when it is determined that it is the time to carry out the situation change (Y of step S101), the controller11, in accordance with the control program, determines an initial screen (an initial screen at a time of starting the game, or an initial screen at a time of changing the situation) (step S102).

The initial screen at the time of starting the game means, for example, a screen displayed first when there has been the game starting instruction from the player. Also, the initial screen at the time of changing the situation means, for example, when clearing one stage and shifting to a new stage (when it is time to carry out the situation change), a screen displayed first in the new stage.

The screens and characters used in the game with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, or various kinds of data such as icons, are stored in the storage medium70. In step S102, an initial display position of the player character PC, non-player characters NPC to be displayed, and initial display positions thereof, icons to be displayed, and initial display positions thereof, and the like, on the initial screen or in the situation after changing (for example, the new stage), are determined in accordance with the control program.

After that, the controller11, in accordance with the control program, determines a position of a point of view, a direction of a visual axis, and a size of the field of view of the hypothetical camera, and carries out an initial setting of the hypothetical camera for carrying out a perspective transform (step S103). Then, the controller shifts to step S115, to be described hereafter.

When it determines that it is during the execution of the game but not time to carry out the situation change (N of step S101), the controller11accepts instruction data based on an operation by the player of the keypad30or the touch panel40(step S104). That is, it determines whether or not instruction data for executing the actions and the like of the player character PC have been input via the keypad30or the touch panel40and, if valid instruction data (meaning instruction data for which a reception is permitted) have been input, the controller11accepts the instruction data.

In the embodiment, for example, a setting is done in advance in such a way that a player character PC displayed on the upper image display portion51can be operated by the keypad30, and a player character PC displayed on the lower image display portion52can be operated by the touch panel40. Also, the setting being such that, with regard to the player character PC displayed on the upper image display portion51, the movement is not permitted, processes of a next step S105to step S107are taken to apply only to the player character PC displayed on the lower image display portion52.

It is also acceptable that it is a setting whereby the player characters PC operable by the keypad30and the touch panel40are interchanged, or that it is a setting whereby an operable player character PC differs for each of the cross key31and button group32on the keypad30or, in a case in which a detection area of the touch panel40is segmented, for each detection area.

If the controller11has accepted instruction data for instructing behavior relating to the movement in step S104(movement instruction data: a selection of a movement command on the touch panel40with the touch pen41, a movement instruction to the player character PC on the lower image display portion52(that is, on the touch panel40) with the touch pen41, or the like) (Y of step S105), in accordance with an operation (a movement operation) of the touch panel40for instructing the behavior of the player character PC relating to the movement, the controller11executes a movement process in accordance with the accepted movement instruction data (step S106).

In the movement process of step S106, the controller11moves a position of the player character PC in the hypothetical space (on a current field) in accordance with the accepted movement instruction data. As the movement command there is, for example, a dash instruction command and the like. The dash instruction command, being a command for moving the player character PC swiftly, is a command for, in the event that the battle is in progress, giving an instruction to move swiftly from a predetermined area of the battle area to another area.

After that, the controller11generates movement information, based on position information of the player character PC which derives from the movement process (step S107). That is, in accordance with the movement of the position of the player character PC due to the movement process, the controller11updates necessary data, from among the position of the point of view, the direction of the visual axis, and the size of the field of view of the hypothetical camera, and carries out a changing of setting details of the hypothetical camera.

The movement information generated in step S107includes various kinds of data relating to the movement, such as the position of the player character PC after the movement, and the position of the point of view, the direction of the visual axis, and the size of the field of view of the hypothetical camera changed by the movement of the player character PC. Then, the controller11shifts to step S113.

If the controller11has accepted instruction data for instructing behavior relating to the battle in step S104(battle instruction data: a battle command) (Y of step S108), in accordance with an operation (a battle operation) of the keypad30or the touch panel40for instructing the behavior of the player character PC relating to the battle, the controller11executes a battle process in accordance with the accepted battle instruction data (step S109).

In the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, specifically, in the event that an operation input for instructing the behavior for carrying out the battle has been carried out with respect to the player character PC, by means of an input operation using the cross key31or the button group32of the keypad30, or an input operation with the touch pen41on the touch panel40, the controller11determines that it has accepted the battle instruction data (Y of step S108), and executes the battle process (step S109). In the battle process carried out in step S109, the controller11executes, for example, a process determining a result of a battle, and a course of a battle, between an enemy character which is a battle opponent, and the player character PC, and the like.

After that, the controller11generates battle information based on the result of the battle and the course of the battle determined by the battle process (step S110). That is, in accordance with the result of the battle and the course of the battle emanating from the battle process, the controller11carries out an update and a setting of necessary data, from among names of the player character PC and the enemy character which have fought, a course of a fight, a result of the fight, parameters regulating a capability of the player character PC, and the like. The battle information includes various kinds of data relating to the battle, such as the names of the player character PC and the enemy character which have fought, the course of the fight, the result of the fight, and the parameters regulating the capability of the player character PC. Then, the controller11shifts to step S113, to be described hereafter.

If, in accordance with an operation (another operation) of the keypad30or the touch panel40for carrying out another instruction, the controller11has received instruction data for the other instruction (other instruction data: another command) in step S104(Y of step S111), the controller11executes a process (for example, a conversation, a purchase, a pick up, a moving of an item, or the like) in accordance with the other instruction data received (step S112). Then, other items of information are generated corresponding to a process result of step S112, and the controller11shifts to step S113.

In step S113, the controller11, by storing the movement information generated in step S107in a predetermined data area of the RAM12, updates a current position of the player character PC. Also, in step S113, the controller11, by storing the battle information generated in step S110, and the other items of information generated after step S112, in a predetermined data area of the RAM12, stores and holds various kinds of behavior history of the player character PC.

After that, the controller11executes a behavior evaluation process, based on the information indicating the behavior history of the player character PC temporarily stored in the RAM12(step S114). Specifically, a numeric conversion is done on information for which the numeric conversion is necessary, using a conversion table prepared in advance, and information for which a weighting is necessary is multiplied by a predetermined coefficient, the figures are aggregated, and the score is calculated. Then, by the calculated score being added to a previous score stored in a predetermined data area of the RAM12, and stored again in the predetermined data area, the score as evaluation information is updated.

Then, the controller11, in accordance with setting contents of the hypothetical camera and the like, implements a perspective transform of the hypothetical three-dimensional space, including the player character PC and non-player characters NPC to be displayed, from the hypothetical camera onto a hypothetical screen, and carries out a display process for generating a two-dimensional image to be displayed on the upper and lower image display portions51and52(step S115).

On finishing the display process in step S115, the controller11finishes the main process on this occasion. Subsequently, on the timer interruption occurring at a starting time of a next frame period, a next main process is executed. Then, by the main process being repeatedly executed, the character image is switched at every frame period, and the moving image is displayed on the upper and lower image display portions51and52.

Herein, a simple description will be given of the display process in step S115. In step S115, the controller11, firstly, converts at least coordinates of apices of a polygon, from among coordinates of apices of a polygon configuring the hypothetical three-dimensional space which includes the player character PC, the non-player characters NPC, and the like, included in a range which undergoes the perspective transform onto the hypothetical screen, from coordinates of the world coordinate system to coordinates of a viewing coordinate system.

After that, the controller11transmits the coordinates of the apices of the polygon, in the viewing coordinate system, for the player character PC, the non-player characters NPC, and the like, to the graphics processor15, and transmits the drawing command to the graphics processor15.

On the drawing command being received, the graphics processor15, based on the coordinates of the viewing coordinate system, updates contents of a Z buffer for each point configuring each plane, in such a way that data of points in a front side remain. On updating the contents of the Z buffer, the graphics processor15moves image data on the remaining points in the front side into the frame memory19. Also, the graphics processor15also carries out a process, such as a shading or a texture mapping, on the moved image data.

Then, the graphics processor15sequentially reads the image data moved to the frame memory19, appends a synchronization signal, generates a video signal, and transmits it to the display device50. The display device50displays an image corresponding to the video signal transmitted from the graphics processor15on the upper and lower display portions51and52. By the image on the upper and lower display portions51and52being switched every one frame time, the player can watch an image including an aspect of the player character PC, the non-player characters NPC, and the like, moving on the field.

With the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, the process corresponding to the other operation in step S111to step S112can be used in playing the game, for example, in the following way. That is, in the event that a communication has been carried out by a short-range wireless communication (for example, a “surechigai” communication (registered trademark)) which, automatically switching a main unit/sub-unit relationship, relating to the communication, with a video game apparatus main body, which another player is using, existing within a neighboring predetermined range of the video game apparatus main body10which one player is using, and searching for a communication partner, automatically connects in the event that a communication partner has been found and, after carrying out an exchange of data (information), severs the connection, information relating to the video game is transmitted and received (exchanged) in the event that a predetermined condition has been fulfilled, the information is not transmitted or received in a specified case, even though the predetermined condition has been fulfilled, or communication history information is used even though the predetermined condition has not been fulfilled. Because of this, as well as increasing an interest in the game, a new game element of increasing a variety is realized.

Specifically, with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, for example, a format is employed which, when the game apparatus main body which is the communication partner is found within the neighboring predetermined range of the game apparatus main body10, and a communication process is executed, referring to terminal category information which indicates a category of each terminal, terminal identification information for identifying each terminal, as well as software identification information for identifying software included in each terminal, a time stamp, and the like, determines, for example, as a predetermined condition, “Is it the same category of terminal?”, “Is it a terminal which has the same software?”, “Is it a terminal which has carried out the communication within a predetermined period?”, or the like and, by exchanging exchangeable information, which can be exchanged as information relating to the game, in accordance with a determination result, and using the communication history information, converts the information into usable information, usable in the software of the video game, in such a way that it can be used by the player. Herein, a description will be given of communication processes, including this kind of communication process, in step S112corresponding to the heretofore described other operation with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.

FIGS. 3 and 4are flowcharts showing examples of the communication processes in the video game apparatus100of the embodiment. From this point on, identical reference numerals will be attached to parts which duplicate the already described portions, and a description will be omitted. Firstly, as a precondition for the communication processes being executed, a description will be given of an example of the display screen of the upper and lower image display portions51and52in the event that an operation input relating to a setting of the short-range wireless communication has been carried out from a main menu, or the like, of a game screen in step S111in the flowchart shown inFIG. 2.FIG. 5is an illustration for illustrating an example of a communication setting screen in the display device50of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.

As shown inFIG. 5, for example, on the communication setting screen, a player character display area201for displaying the player character PC, an equipment display area202for displaying equipment of the player character PC displayed in the player character display area201, a status display area203for displaying various kinds of information relating to a current status of the player character PC, and a display determination deck204which, for example, determines a display format (a display order and the like) of capability icons for causing the player to select a feasibility level of an attack, an item and the like, usable by the player character PC, displayed on the display screen of the lower image display portion52during the battle, are displayed on the upper image display portion51. From this point on, each capability icon will be described under a name of “badges”.

A priority tag206, which expresses an execution (activation) process priority during the battle in the battle scene, and a level display207and level meter208, which express a capability level of badges205, are displayed on the badges205displayed in the display determination deck204. Special effects according to capabilities expressed by the badges205are set in such a way as to exercise a different effect at every level. Although omitted from the figure, the badges205being managed by a badge management table, a type of badge, a level, an effectiveness for one time of use (specific attacking power and recovery power points), remaining points, an action pattern of the touch pen41for causing the activation, a necessary experience value, and other information are included in the badge management table.

In the event that the badges205are a type of badge relating to an attack, there are various types such as, for example, a “thunder attack”, a “fire attack”, a “wind blasting attack” and an “object moving attack”. Also, in the event that the badges205are a type of badge which have an effect on the status of the player character, there are various types such as, for example, an “HP recovery by medicine”, an “attacking power increase” and a “defensive power increase”.

The level, being set individually for every badge205, is regulated in such a way that, for example, the higher the level, the greater an effect of the special effect executed by the badge. It may happen that, depending on a type of a kind of badge which exercises a special effectiveness such as, for example, “destroy all enemy characters”, as the special effect, the level is not set. The remaining points indicate a usability value (a number of times usable)/a maximum usability value (a maximum number of times usable) of the special effects according to the badges205.

The necessary experience value regulates an experience value (badge points: BP), for every badge205, necessary when raising the level to a next one. Apart from this, information which, for example, in the event that the number of times which a special effect according to a badge205is usable has become zero, regulates a length of a period (a boot time) for which the capability indicated by the relevant badge205is in a condition of being unusable for a certain period (booting condition), until the number of times usable returns to the maximum number of times usable, and information such as a capability name indicated by each badge205, and a capability ID for uniquely regulating the capabilities indicated by the badges205, are included.

Herein, as in the heretofore mentioned “action pattern of the touch pen41”, with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, an operation method relating to the attack or the like of the player character PC on the lower image display portion52is implemented, for example, in the following way. That is, the player, by carrying out a predetermined input operation such as, for example, “prodding”, “rubbing”, “surrounding by drawing a frame” or “drawing a line”, using the touch pen41, in an area on the lower image display portion52in which is displayed an enemy character the player wishes to attack with the player character PC, or an area on the lower image display portion52in which is displayed an object item the player wishes to move toward the enemy character, can carry out an attack or the like corresponding to each input operation.

With the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, by so doing, as well as an attack instruction and the like being promptly given to the player character PC, as it is possible to carry out an attack by directly carrying out the input operation, using the touch pen41, on an image of the enemy character and the like being displayed, it being possible to easily obtain an actual sensation of the operation, it is possible to heighten a player's feeling of reality in the battle scene.

With the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, in the event of making the attack or the like by carrying out the heretofore described predetermined input operation, it is necessary that a type of a selectable and executable attack, or the like, is displayed on the display screen of the lower image display portion52by a badge205which abstractly expresses its contents. For this reason, for example, in the event that an input operation stating “surround by drawing a circle” is correlated in advance, in an operation pattern in the badge management table, to one which instructs an execution of the “fire attack”, which attacks the enemy character with fire, it is necessary that something expressing the “fire attack” is included in the badge205, which is stored in the display storage deck204and displayed on the display screen. A predetermined input operation such as “surround by drawing a circle” not being limited to one using the touch panel40and the touch pen41, it is also acceptable to configure in such a way as to implement using, for example, an input device such as the mouse, the joystick or a trackball which are not shown in the figure.

Meanwhile, on the communication setting screen, a profile display screen210, for displaying the player's user profile, being displayed on the lower image display portion52, a picture display area211for, as well as correlating a picture, character or the like, which the player has drawn of his or her own free will, with the user profile, displaying it as a sticker stuck on a background image or the like during the game, a “start” button212for instructing a start of the short-range wireless communication, and a “stop” button213for instructing a finish of the display on the communication setting screen, are displayed on the profile display screen210. Also, a name display area, which displays a freely determined player's name, and a comment display area, which displays a freely determined player's comment, are provided on the profile display screen210.

In the communication setting screen configured in this way, by the player selecting and pressing the “start” button212on the profile display screen210, with the touch pen41or the like, as shown inFIG. 3, the controller11, controlling the communication interface17, puts the communication function into an activated condition so that a transmission and reception of the various kinds of information is possible (step S120) and, as well as delivering a terminal category information transmission request, waits until it receives a terminal category information transmission request transmitted from the other video game apparatus main body existing within the neighboring predetermined range (N of step S121) and, if it has been received (Y of step S121), transmits the terminal category information of the video game apparatus main body10to the other video game apparatus main body (step S122).

Having transmitted the terminal category information, the controller11receives the terminal category information from the other video game apparatus main body (step S123), compares the received terminal category information and the terminal category information of the video game apparatus main body10, and determines whether or not the other video game apparatus main body and the video game apparatus main body10are terminals of the same category (step S124).

If it determines that they are terminals of the same category (Y of step S124), the controller11establishes a connection with the other video game apparatus main body by means of a one-on-one wireless communication (step S125), and transmits the terminal identification information, such as a terminal ID, for individually identifying the terminal, to the other video game apparatus main body, by means of the wireless communication (step S126).

Having transmitted the terminal category information, the controller11receives the terminal category information from the other video game apparatus main body by means of the wireless communication (step S127), determines whether the received terminal category information is the same as the terminal category information expressed by the communication history information already stored in the RAM12or the like, and so on and, by referring to the time stamp expressed by the communication history information, determines whether or not the other video game apparatus main body is a terminal which has carried out the communication with the video game apparatus main body10within a predetermined period (for example, one hour) (step S128).

If it determines that it is not a terminal which has carried out the communication within the predetermined period (N of step S128), the controller11starts a recording of the communication history information, which indicates a communication history arising from the wireless communication, into the RAM12or the like (step S129), and transmits the software identification information, such as a software ID for identifying video game software which the video game apparatus main body10is using (is equipped with), to the other video game apparatus main body (step S130).

Having transmitted the software identification information, the controller11receives the software identification information for video game software which the other video game apparatus main body is using (is equipped with) from the other video game apparatus main body (step S131), compares the received software identification information and the software identification information of the video game apparatus main body10, and determines whether or not the types of software are the same, as shown inFIG. 4(step S132).

If it determines that the types of software are the same (Y of step S132), the controller11transmits exchangeable information, exchangeable with regard to the software, to the other video game apparatus main body (step S133), receives exchangeable information from the other video game apparatus main body (step S134), and saves the received exchangeable information in the RAM12or the like (step S135). As the exchangeable information, for example, information relating to a badge indicating an item freely designated for exchange in advance, or an item of a high scarcity, and the like, from among the badges205stored in the display determination deck204, can be proposed.

Having saved the received exchangeable information, the controller11counts a number of times the connection has been established in step S125(step S136), finishes the recording of the communication history information, which indicates the communication history arising from the wireless communication, into the RAM12or the like (step S137) and, in the event that there is already communication history information in the RAM12or the like, overwrites it with the communication history information for which the recording has finished, and saves it (step S138).

Then, the controller11severs the connection established with the other video game apparatus main body by means of the one-on-one wireless communication (step S139), determines whether or not the number of established connections counted in step S136has reached a regulation number (for example, ten) fixed in advance (step S140) and, if it determines that the regulation number has been reached (Y of step S140), controlling the communication interface17, puts the communication function into a deactivated condition (step S142), and finishes the series of processes according to the flowcharts.

If it determines that the regulation number has not been reached (N of step S140), the controller11, by measuring a power voltage and the like of the video game apparatus main body10, determines whether or not there is any remaining battery charge (step S141) and, if it determines that there is remaining battery charge (Y of step S141), shifts to step121and repeats the process. If it determines that there is no remaining battery charge (N of step S141), the controller11, controlling the communication interface17, puts the communication function into the deactivated condition (step S142), and finishes the series of processes according to the flowcharts.

If it determines in step S124that they are not terminals of the same category (N of step S124), and if it determines in step S128that it is a terminal which has carried out the communication within the predetermined period (Y of step S128), the controller11shifts to step S140, and carries out a determination process. Also, if it determines in step S132that the types of software are not the same (N of step S132), the controller11shifts to step S137, and finishes the recording of the communication history information.

The exchangeable information and communication history information communicated with the other video game apparatus main body by these kinds of communication process are converted, by the controller11, into the usable information usable in the software of the video game apparatus main body10, and used. Consequently, by actively using the various kinds of information communicated between the apparatus, when exchanging the information relating to the game by means of the wireless communication, it is possible to increase the variety in playing the game, while achieving an effective utilization of the communication function.

Next, a description will be given of the display screen when the heretofore described kinds of communication process are being carried out with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.FIG. 6is an illustration for illustrating an example of a communication-in-progress screen in the display device50of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.

As shown inFIG. 6, for example, on the communication-in-progress screen, a progress display area214, for expressing an intermediate progress of the communication, is displayed on the upper image display portion51, while a communication-in-progress setting display area215, for expressing an item settable during the communication, and the display determination deck204, are displayed on the lower image display portion52. Characters stating “short-range wireless communication in progress”, indicating a fact that the communication is in progress, and characters stating “so far . . . have been encountered”, indicating a breakdown of other video game apparatus main bodies which the video game apparatus main body10has encountered within the neighboring predetermined range during the communication, are displayed in the progress display area214.

Herein, “◯◯◯◯”, “XXXX”, and “ΔΔΔΔ” displayed in the progress display area214are, for example, in the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, defined as follows. That is, “◯◯◯◯” is counted in a case of encountering another video game apparatus main body which is of the same category of terminal as the video game apparatus main body10, and is using the same software, while “XXXX” is counted in a case of encountering another video game apparatus main body which, despite being of the same category of terminal as the video game apparatus main body10, is using different software. “ΔΔΔΔ” is counted in a case not included in the heretofore described conditions.

Then, when communication counted as “◯◯◯◯” has been carried out, apart from the heretofore described exchangeable information and the like, information relating to the user profile displayed on the profile display screen210is also transmitted and received between each terminal, and saved in each one.

Items for various kinds of communication-in-progress setting being displayed in the communication-in-progress setting display area215, in the game apparatus main body10, in the event that a display of a power lamp is set in advance in such a way as to change to green when the remaining battery charge is sufficient, and to turn to red when the remaining battery charge has become low, for example, a check box216, for setting an item stating “do not communicate when the power lamp is red (that is, when the remaining battery charge is low)”, and a number of people setting box217, for setting a number which indicates a number of people in an item stating “stop the communication when □ more people have been encountered”, are displayed therein. By making the items settable in this way, it is possible to curb the remaining battery charge, a remaining data memory capacity, and the like, being ignored, and the communication being repeated indefinitely. Apart from this, although omitted from the figure, it is also acceptable that an item stating “inform by sound”, or an item stating “inform by vibration”, is provided in the communication-in-progress setting display area215, when the communication is carried out. The number expressed in the number of people setting box217is displayed in a condition in which the number has decreased every time the short-range wireless communication has been carried out.

The communication being carried out in this way, for example, in the event that the short-range wireless communication is carried out once each for the number of people set by means of the number of people setting box217(that is, a regulation number set in advance), a communication result screen is displayed on the display device50. At this time, it is also acceptable, making the number of people setting box217settable for each category of the communication partner, to make it possible to carry out a kind of control stating “give priority to counting as ◯◯◯◯”. By so doing, as will be described hereafter, in a kind of case in which points associated with the game are calculated for each category of the communication partner, it is possible to prioritize a count as a communication partner which will be most beneficial for the player over other categories of the communication partner. For example, in a case in which “◯◯◯◯” is more beneficial for the player than “XXXX”, in a case in which “give priority to counting as ◯◯◯◯” has been set, and “stop the communication when 10 more people have been encountered” has been set, in the event of newly encountering a “◯◯◯◯” in a condition in which encounters with seven “◯◯◯◯” and three “XXXX” have already been counted, it is acceptable to arrange in such a way that one partner's worth of a communication record as “XXXX” is deleted, and encounters with eight “◯◯◯◯” and two “XXXX” can be recorded.

FIG. 7is an illustration for illustrating an example of the communication result screen in the display device50of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment. As shown inFIG. 7, on the communication result screen, a communication result display area218, for expressing a communication result, is displayed on the upper image display portion51, while detailed result display areas219,220,221and222, for expressing details of the communication result, and the display determination deck204, are displayed on the lower image display portion52. For example, how many “◯◯◯◯”, “XXXX” and “ΔΔΔΔ” the short-range wireless communication has been carried out with, and how many BP have been obtained as a result, are displayed in the detailed result display areas219,220and221respectively, while an overall result arising from the short-range wireless communication is displayed in the detailed result display area222.

It is sufficient that, in accordance with a difference in a condition of the “◯◯◯◯”, “XXXX” and “ΔΔΔΔ”, and the like, with which the short-range wireless communication has been carried out, the BP are set in such a way that coefficients used in calculating points given for each one differ. For example, it is possible to set at a number of people (a number of times) communicated with X100 BP in the case of “◯◯◯◯”, a number of people (a number of times) communicated with X50 BP in the case of “XXXX”, and a number of people (a number of times) communicated with X300 BP in the case of “ΔΔΔΔ”, and the like.

Then, the BP acquired in this way are added to the necessary experience value of the badges205stored in the display determination deck204and, in the event of attaining a condition of reaching the necessary experience value fixed by the badge management table, the levels of the badges205increase. With the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, by so doing, it is possible, simply by carrying out the short-range wireless communication, to carry out the playing of the game using not only the information relating to the game, but also the communication history information. As the communication history information expressing the communication result and the like is saved in the video game apparatus main body10, the player can browse it at any time.

FIGS. 8A to 8Eare illustrations for illustrating an example of a browsing procedure of the communication result screen in the display device50of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment. As shown inFIG. 8A, on selecting a communication result browsing menu from the main menu or the like, the communication result, including detailed result display areas223,224and225for expressing a detailed result of the short-range wireless communication with “◯◯◯◯”, “XXXX” and “ΔΔΔΔ”, is displayed on the lower image display portion52.

Then, for example, on making a selection decision of the detailed result display areas223to225it is wished to browse, using the touch pen41or the like, a list display area226, for a profile of another user already communicated with (already saved), included in the detailed result is displayed, as shown inFIG. 8B, and, on making a selection decision of an optional user profile from the list display area226, using the touch pen41or the like, details of the user profile for which the selection decision has been made are displayed on the upper and lower image display portions51and52, as shown inFIG. 8C. A movement of a display item in the list display area226can be carried out by operating a slider230.

A content display area231, for displaying contents of a user profile expressed by means of user profile information, is displayed on the upper image display portion51, and a sticker display area232, for displaying the user's picture or comment drawn in the picture display area211, is displayed on the lower image display portion52. As the sticker displayed in the sticker display area232is included in the user profile information in the event that the setting has been done with the sticker having been drawn in advance in the picture display area211, for example, in the event that there is someone, among other players communicated with, who has set the sticker, a display227, indicating that the sticker exists, is implemented in the list display area226, as shown in, for example,FIG. 8D, and, by making a selection decision of the display227with the touch pen41or the like, it is possible to display and browse the sticker in the sticker display area232, as shown inFIG. 8E.

It is also acceptable to configure in such a way that a badge205acquired by the communication processes, for example, a badge, stored in the display determination deck204of a partner in an exchange or the like (the other video game apparatus main body10), designated to be made available for the exchange or the like or, in the event that there has been no designation, one of a high scarcity, is displayed, for example, during a game being executed in the video game apparatus main body10of a receiving side, so as to be available in a predetermined situation or, in the event that a setting is such that a buying and selling of the badge205is possible, displayed on a badge list of a badge retailing outlet appearing during the game. Also, it is also acceptable to configure in such a way as to display the sticker included in the user profile information in a predetermined situation during the game. In this way too, as it is possible to reflect an effect of the short-range wireless communication with the other player in the playing of the game, it is possible to further increase the interest in the game.

In the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, it is possible, on a badge setting screen selectable from the main menu or the like, to carry out various kinds of setting of the badges205to be exchanged with the other video game apparatus main body as the exchangeable information, or used in the game as the usable information.FIG. 9is an illustration showing an example of the badge setting screen in the display device50of the video game apparatus100of the embodiment.

As shown inFIG. 9, on the badge setting screen, the display determination deck204, in which the badges205are stored, a stock window240, for displaying an interchangeable badge205in the display determination deck204, and a master window241, for displaying a badge205for which the level has reached a maximum value (a master), are displayed on the lower image display portion52. The heretofore described kind of slider230being provided in the stock window240and the master window241, it is possible to move display positions of the badges205displayed by operating the slider230. Also, a badge help screen, for displaying various kinds of information relating to a badge205which the player has last selected, with the touch pen41, in the display determination deck204, the stock window240, the master window241or the like, is displayed on the upper image display portion51.

The badge help screen is configured including a detail display area237, for displaying an image, a name and the like of the badge205, an attribute display area238, for displaying attribute information and the like of the badge205displayed in the detail display area237, and an information display area239, for displaying other information. Also, an icon242, for shifting to a customizing screen which customizes sorts of the badges205to be displayed in the stock window240and the master window241, an on/off setting of the sorts, a sort reference priority, and the like, an icon243for displaying items which the player can operate on the badge setting screen, and an icon244for closing the badge setting screen.

Although omitted from the figure, a short cut tag is displayed on a badge205for which has been implemented a short cut setting, which is a setting instructing an execution of the special effect according to the capability correlated to one input operation on an input system, and expressed by the badge205besides the process priority expressed by the above-described priority tag206which is displayed in the display determination deck204. The short cut tag is displayed in an optional display color, such as red or blue, based on setting conditions. The special effect according to the capability expressed by the badge205on which the short cut tag is displayed is executed (activated) immediately by depressing the button group32, R1 button36, L1 button33, or the like, of the keypad30, as a short cut key which has been subjected to the short cut setting, regardless of the input operation and the like with the touch pen41.

That is, it is acceptable to set in such a way that, for example, correlating the R1 button36with a short cut tag displayed in blue, and correlating the L1 button33with a short cut tag displayed in red, it is possible for the player to recognize at a glance the badge205which has been subjected to the short cut setting. Also, it is also acceptable to set in such a way that, on depressing the short cut key for executing the capability of the badge205which has been subjected to the short cut setting, a badge205with a highest process priority, from among the badges205displayed in the display determination deck204, is executed first. In this case, when the badge205with the highest process priority is in the booting condition, it is good that a badge205with the next process priority is executed. Furthermore, it is also acceptable that the setting is done in such a way that, in the case in which the short cut key has been depressed, any one of the badges205for which the short cut setting has been implemented is executed at random. By carrying out the short cut setting in this way, it is possible to increase the interest in the game.

Also, a movement of the badge205on the badge setting screen between the display determination deck204, and the stock window240and master window241, can be carried out by, for example, using the touch pen41, maintaining a selection of a badge205it is wished to move and dragging it to a movement destination. The priority tag206is regulated in such a way that, for example, the lower a number being displayed, the higher the process priority. For this reason, with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, it is also possible to set in such a way that, storing badges of the same kind in the display determination deck204, the player character can acquire special effects of differing levels depending on the process priority.

As heretofore described, with the video game apparatus100of the embodiment, in the case in which the communication is carried out with the other video game apparatus main body by the short-range wireless communication, it is not only possible to exchange the badges205and the like but, as the configuration is such that it is possible to increase the level of the badges205based on the various kinds of information indicated by the communication history information, and possible to play the video game using the user profile of the other player, it being possible to reflect the effect of the other player, and use the various kinds of information acquired by the communication, in a closed game playing space in one video game apparatus100, it is possible to further increase the interest in the game, and to increase the variety in playing the game, while achieving the effective utilization of the communication function.

As heretofore described, in the heretofore described one embodiment, it is arranged in such a way that the controller11, in accordance with the request, from the other game apparatus main body which differs from the game apparatus main body10, to transmit the terminal category information (refer to step S121), transmits the terminal category information to the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S122), receives the terminal category information from the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S123), determines, by comparing the received terminal category information and the terminal category information of the game apparatus main body10, whether or not the terminal categories are the same (refer to step S124), establishes the connection, in accordance with the determination result, with the other game apparatus main body by means of the one-on-one wireless communication (refer to step S125), transmits the terminal identification information to the other game apparatus main body by means of the wireless communication (refer to step S126), receives the terminal identification information from the other game apparatus main body by means of the wireless communication (refer to step S127), determines, based on the received terminal identification information, whether or not the other game apparatus main body is the terminal which has carried out the wireless communication with the game apparatus main body10within the prescribed period (refer to step S128), starts, depending on the determination result, the recording of the communication history information indicating the history of the wireless communication (refer to step S129), transmits the software identification information of the video game included in the game apparatus main body10to the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S130), receives the software identification information included in the other game apparatus main body from the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S131), determines, by comparing the received software identification information and the software identification information of the game apparatus main body10, whether or not the kinds of software are the same (refer to step S132), transmits, depending on the determination result, the exchangeable information on the software to the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S133), receives the exchangeable information from the other game apparatus main body (refer to step S134) and, depending on the determination result of whether or not the kinds of software are the same, finishes the recording of the communication history information (refer to step S137), converts the received exchangeable information into the badge205, which is the usable information usable by the software of the game apparatus main body10, along with having finished the recording of the communication history information, and severs the connection by the wireless communication (refer to step S139). Therefore, based on the information such as the terminal category of each apparatus main body, and the kind of software of the video game included in each apparatus main body, even in the event, for example, that there is no uniformity among them, it being possible to actively use the various kinds of information, such as the information on the communication history between the apparatus main bodies, in the video game when exchanging the information relating to the game by means of the wireless communication, it is possible to increase the variety in playing the game, while achieving the effective utilization of the communication function.

Also, in the heretofore described one embodiment, it is arranged in such a way that the controller11, in the event that the categories of the other game apparatus main body and the game apparatus main body10are not the same (refer to step S124), saves the information on the history of the communication with the other game apparatus main body carried out thus far, along with the terminal category information of the other game apparatus main body, and converts the saved communication history information into the usable information. Therefore, it being possible to actively use the communication history information in the video game, even in the event that the categories of the apparatus main bodies are not the same, it is possible to increase the variety in playing the game, while achieving the effective utilization of the communication function.

Also, in the heretofore described one embodiment, it is arranged in such a way that the controller11, in the event that the categories of the other game apparatus main body and the game apparatus main body10are the same (refer to step S124), and the kinds of software are the same (refer to step S132), records the number of times the connection has been established (refer to step S136) and, in the event that the recorded number of times has reached the preset regulation number (refer to step S140), severs the connection by means of the wireless communication. Therefore, in the event that the categories of the apparatus main bodies and the kinds of software are both the same, it is possible to arrange in such a way that the connection by means of the wireless communication is not established a number of times equal to or greater than the regulation number and, it being possible to save the regulation number of items of the communication history information, and actively use them in the video game, without compressing a storage area of the communication history information, it is possible to increase the variety in playing the game, while achieving the effective utilization of the communication function.

Also, in the heretofore described one embodiment, it is arranged in such a way that the controller11displays the converted usable information on the display screen as the badge205, which indicates the feasibility level for giving the special effect to the behavior of the player character PC (refer toFIG. 9etc.) and, along with the badge205, displays at least one from among a remaining feasibility value or the level of the feasibility level, on the display screen by means of, for example, the level display207, the level meter208, or the like. Therefore, while increasing the interest in the game by displaying the various kinds of information relating to the feasibility level of the player character PC on the display screen efficiently, and easily viewable by the player, it is possible, actively using the various kinds of information arising from the wireless communication in the video game, to achieve the effective utilization of the communication function, and increase the variety in playing the game.

Also, in the heretofore described one embodiment, it is arranged in such a way that the controller11displays the remaining feasibility value and the level on the display screen by means of alphanumeric characters or a meter (that is, the level display207or the level meter208). Therefore, while increasing the interest in the game by displaying the various kinds of information relating to the feasibility level of the player character PC on the display screen efficiently, and easily viewable by the player, it is possible, actively using the various kinds of information arising from the wireless communication in the video game, to achieve the effective utilization of the communication function, and increase the variety in playing the game.

Also, in the heretofore described one embodiment, the video game apparatus main body10and the display device50are configured as separate entities, but it is also acceptable to have a configuration in which the display device50is included in the video game apparatus main body10, and it is also acceptable to have a configuration in which the display device50is equipped with even more image display portions, other than the upper and lower image display portions51and52. Also, it is also acceptable that the display device50is configured in such a way that, dividing one image display portion into a plurality of display areas, the same kind of effect is acquired.

Also, in the heretofore described embodiment, the description of the RPG game control is given but, it naturally being possible to apply the invention to a game of a similar kind, such as a gun action RPG, furthermore, as well as it also being possible to suitably apply the invention to other kinds of game, it is possible for one or a plurality of players to play.

Also, in the heretofore described embodiment, the video game apparatus100is described as the example but, as long as it is an instrument equipped with an image generating function, it is possible to apply the invention to various kinds of instrument, such as a personal computer, a portable telephone terminal, or a portable game machine. In the event that the invention is applied to the portable game machine or the like, it is preferable to use a miniature storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory card, in place of the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM, as the heretofore described storage medium70.

Also, in the heretofore described embodiment, game data (various kinds of data, such as the control program used in the game, and the like), for causing the video game apparatus main body10to execute the heretofore described various kinds of process, are stored in the storage medium70, but it is also acceptable that the game data are distributed by a server system, such as a WWW server. In this case, it is sufficient to arrange in such a way that the video game apparatus main body10acquires the game data distributed by the server system via the communication network80, stores them in the HDD13, loads the game data from the HDD13into the RAM12, and uses them. Although they have been taken as game data in the heretofore described example, it is sufficient that they are data which include at least the control program for causing a computer to execute the image generating processes in the heretofore described embodiment.

According to the invention, it is useful when applying the invention to the video game apparatus, the personal computer, the portable telephone terminal, the portable game machine, and the like which, as well as controlling the implementation of the video game by displaying the player character on the display screen of the image display device, and controlling the behavior of the player character displayed on the display screen in accordance with the operation by the player, having a function as terminals which carry out the wireless communication, carry out the transmission and reception of the information relating to the video game.