JP2014205061A - Game machine, computer program used for the same, and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of suppressing player's accustomedness.SOLUTION: The game machine, in which an object OJ moving from a departure position to an arrival position along a track TL is displayed on a game screen 40, rotates the track TL centering on a rotational axis RL during a game on the basis of a prescribed condition, and changes a position at which the track TL is arranged due to the rotation of the track TL such that the track TL gradually moves around a prescribed center position CP centering on the prescribed center position CP.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine in which a reference sign that moves along a predetermined route from a starting position to an arrival position is displayed on a game screen, a computer program used therefor, and a control method.

  A notes bar corresponding to the rhythm sound is displayed along a predetermined route, and the operation time is moved by moving the notes bar toward the reference line so that the notes bar coincides with the reference line corresponding to the current time. A music game to be guided is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2001-96061 A

  In the game device of Patent Document 1, the operation time is guided by the coincidence of the notes bar and the reference line. Further, the guided operation time is compared with the actual operation time for the simulated guitar as the operation means, and the actual operation time is evaluated. However, the position where the Notes bar is displayed, the movement path of the Notes bar, etc. are constant. For this reason, there is a possibility that the player becomes accustomed and the interest of the game is lowered.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine capable of suppressing player's habituation, a computer program used therefor, and a control method.

  The game machine of the present invention is a game machine in which a reference sign (OJ) that moves along a predetermined route (TL) from a departure position (UP) to a destination position (DP) is displayed on a game screen (40). , Data storage means (20) for storing placement data (31, 32) for placing the reference mark on the predetermined route, and the reference mark on the predetermined route based on the placement data. A sign placing means (15) arranged above, a route rotating means (15) for rotating the predetermined route around a predetermined rotation axis (RL) during a game based on a predetermined condition, and the predetermined rotation A path that changes the position at which the predetermined path is arranged so that the predetermined path gradually moves around the predetermined center position (CP) as the path rotates. Position changing means (15) and It is equipped with a.

  According to the present invention, a predetermined path rotates based on a predetermined condition. Thereby, the display position, display range, moving direction, and the like of the reference sign can be changed, so that the player's line of sight or operation can be changed. Alternatively, such a change can be used as an effect. As a result, the player's habituation can be suppressed, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, according to the present invention, since the change of the movement of the position in addition to the rotation can be given, the player's habituation can be further suppressed.

  The predetermined path may be rotated in any way, and may be rotated around a predetermined center position. For example, in the aspect in which the position of the predetermined route of the present invention changes, the route position changing unit is configured so that the predetermined route returns to the original position where the movement is started in a state where the predetermined route is rotated once. The position where the predetermined path is arranged may be changed according to the rotation angle of the predetermined path. Alternatively, the route rotating means may rotate the predetermined route in a direction (RR) corresponding to a rotation direction (RD) in which the predetermined route moves around the predetermined center position. In this case, since the rotation direction corresponds to the rotation direction, the effect of production can be improved.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the predetermined rotation axis may extend along the predetermined path. In this case, the direction in which the predetermined path extends can be matched before and after the rotation.

  The predetermined center position may be arranged anywhere. For example, in the aspect in which the predetermined center position of the present invention is used, the predetermined center position may be disposed on the departure position side on the extension line of the predetermined route.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the game machine further comprises a rotation timing data storage means (20) for storing rotation timing data (32) in which a rotation timing for rotating the predetermined path is described, The predetermined path may be rotated at the rotation time described in the rotation time data. In this case, the rotation time can be designated using the rotation time data.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, execution condition data storage means for storing execution condition data (32) in which execution condition information for specifying whether or not the predetermined path should be rotated is described. (20), wherein the route rotation means uses the execution condition specified by the execution condition information as the predetermined condition, and rotates the predetermined route when the execution condition is satisfied. May be. In this case, a condition for rotating a predetermined route can be specified using the execution condition information.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the game machine further comprises angle specifying data storage means (20) for storing angle specifying data (32) in which angle specifying information for specifying the rotation angle of the predetermined path is described, The path rotating means may rotate the predetermined path to a rotation angle specified by the angle specifying information based on the angle specifying data. In this case, the angle specifying data can be used to specify an angle for rotating the predetermined route.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the game machine further includes a rotation direction data storage means (20) for storing rotation direction data (32) in which rotation direction information for specifying the rotation direction of the predetermined path is described, The path rotation means may rotate the predetermined path in a direction specified by the rotation direction information based on the rotation direction data. In this case, the direction in which the predetermined path is rotated can be specified using the rotation direction data.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, sequence data (32) in which an input device (3) having at least one operation unit (13) and an operation timing for performing an operation on the operation unit during the game are described. ) And a sequence data storage means (20) that stores the operation time included in a predetermined time range from the current time on the game to the future based on the sequence data, and at each determined operation time Displaying the reference sign correspondingly, displaying the reference sign together with a current time sign (KL) corresponding to the current time in a time-ordered arrangement along the predetermined route on the game, and The reference sign and the current time so that the distance between the reference sign and the current time sign decreases as the time difference between each operation time and the current time decreases. An operation guide means (15) for guiding the operation timing by causing a relative displacement along the predetermined route between the mark mark and the sequence data as the arrangement data. The sequence data storage means may function as the data storage means, and the operation guide means may function as the sign placement means. In this case, since the predetermined route is used for operation guidance, the player's attention can be more easily collected. For this reason, a change can be impressed by a player through rotation of a predetermined route. Thereby, a player's familiarity can be suppressed more.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, a specific operation on the operation unit is adopted as the predetermined condition, and the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path when the specific operation is executed. May be. In this case, since whether or not the rotation can be performed depends on a specific operation, it is possible to motivate the operation.

  In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, a sound output device (4) for reproducing and outputting sound, a music data storage means (20) for storing music data (29) for reproducing music, and the music data And a music playback means (15) for playing back the music from the audio output device. The sequence data may describe a time during playback of the music as the operation time. In this case, it is possible to provide a music game that can suppress player's familiarity.

  The computer program for a game machine of the present invention is a game machine in which a reference mark (OJ) that moves along a predetermined route (TL) from a start position (UP) to a destination position (DP) is displayed on a game screen (40). A computer (15) incorporated in a game machine (1) comprising data storage means (20) for storing arrangement data (31, 32) for arranging the reference sign on the predetermined route. A sign placement means for placing the reference sign on the predetermined path based on the placement data; a path for rotating the predetermined path around a predetermined rotation axis (RL) based on a predetermined condition; The predetermined path so that the predetermined path gradually moves around the predetermined center position (CP) as the rotation means and the predetermined path rotate. Those that are configured to function as a route position changing means for changing the arrangement is the position.

  In the game machine control method of the present invention, a reference sign (OJ) that moves along a predetermined route (TL) from the departure position (UP) to the arrival position (DP) is displayed on the game screen (40). A computer (15) incorporated in a game machine (1) comprising data storage means (20) for storing arrangement data (31, 32) for arranging the reference sign on the predetermined route. ) On the basis of the placement data, the sign placement procedure for placing the reference sign on the predetermined route, and on the basis of a predetermined condition, the predetermined route is centered on a predetermined rotation axis (RL). The predetermined rotation path is rotated, and the predetermined path is gradually moved around the predetermined center position around the predetermined center position (CP) with the rotation of the predetermined path. Route is placed And the route position change procedure for changing the that position, but to run. The game machine of the present invention can be realized by executing the computer program or the control method of the present invention.

  In addition, in the above description, in order to make an understanding of this invention easy, the reference sign of the accompanying drawing was attached in parenthesis, but this invention is not limited to the form of illustration by it.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the display position, display range, moving direction, moving distance, and the like of the reference sign can be changed through rotation of a predetermined route. Can be changed. Thereby, the player's familiarity can be suppressed.

The figure which shows the external appearance of the game machine which concerns on one form of this invention. The figure which expands and shows the control panel of FIG. The functional block diagram of a game machine. The figure which shows an example of a game screen. The figure which shows the other example of a game screen. The figure which shows the game screen after progress for a fixed time from the game screen of FIG. The figure which shows the game screen in the state just before a track starts rotation. The figure which shows the game screen after progress for a fixed time from FIG. The figure which shows the game screen after progress for a fixed time from FIG. The figure which shows the game screen after progress for a fixed time from FIG. The figure which shows an example of the content of sequence data. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of an instruction | indication route display process routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a cursor display process routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a cursor position control processing routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a route rotation process routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of an operation evaluation routine.

  Hereinafter, a game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of a game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the game machine 1 includes a monitor 2, a control panel 3 as an input device, and two speakers 4 as sound output devices. Each speaker 4 is configured to be capable of emitting light, and its emission color changes during play. In addition to the control panel 3, the game machine 1 is provided with various input devices and output devices included in a normal business game machine such as a volume operation switch, a power switch, and a power lamp. In FIG. 1, these are not shown. Further, a plurality of game machines 1 may be used side by side.

  FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the control panel 3 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the control panel 3 is provided with two volume controllers 9 as rotation operation members and six buttons 13 as operation units. The six buttons 13 are classified into four large buttons 13D and two small buttons 13S smaller than the large buttons 13D. The surface 3S is classified into a first region D1 and a second region D2. A broken line D in FIG. 2 indicates a boundary between the first region D1 and the second region D2. As shown in FIG. 2, the four large buttons 13D are arranged in the first area D1 above the two small buttons 13S, and the two small buttons are arranged in the second area D2 below the first area D1. The The four large buttons 13D are arranged so as to form a line in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, the two small buttons 13S are also arranged so as to form a line in the horizontal direction.

  Further, the six buttons 13 are respectively disposed at left and right target positions with reference to a vertical line JL that bisects the surface 3S of the control panel 3 in the left-right direction LR. The vertical line JL bisects the first region D1 and the second region D2 to the left and right. That is, the control panel 3 is classified into the left region 3A and the right region 3B by the vertical line JL, and each of these regions 3A, 3B includes three buttons 13. Then, the three buttons 13 included in the left area 3A and the three buttons 13 included in the right area 3B are arranged at the left and right target positions with respect to the vertical line JL. Further, the small button 13S is disposed on an intermediate line BT formed in the middle of the left and right direction LR between the two large buttons 13D included in each of the areas 3A and 3B. In this way, a predetermined positional relationship is formed between one small button and two large buttons 13D respectively included in the left and right regions 3A and 3B. 2 are imaginary lines and are not provided on the actual control panel 3. The vertical lines JL and the intermediate lines BT in FIG.

  The volume controller 9 is disposed in the second area D2. Further, the two volume controllers 9 are also classified by the vertical disconnection line JL into a left volume controller 9A included in the left area 3A and a right volume controller 9B included in the right area 3B. These volume controllers 9A and 9B are also arranged on the left and right sides with respect to the vertical line JL. The volume controller 9 is formed in a cylindrical shape having a center line CL. The volume controller 9 includes a shaft portion (not shown) extending in a direction intersecting the surface 3S along the center line CL, and a knob portion 9T attached to be fixed to the shaft portion. The shaft portion is provided so as to be able to rotate both left and right around the center line CL. That is, the volume controller 9 is configured to be rotatable both counterclockwise and clockwise around the center line CL. The volume controller 9 is rotated by the player in both the left and right directions via the knob portion 9T. Further, the position of the outer peripheral portion SP of the knob portion 9T changes with the rotation operation. The outer peripheral portion SP of the knob portion 9T functions as a reference portion of the present invention.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the game machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, a control unit 15 as a computer is provided inside the game machine 1. Further, the control panel 3, the monitor 2 and the speaker 4 are connected to the control unit 15. The control unit 15 includes a game control unit 16 as a control subject, a display control unit 17 that operates according to an output from the game control unit 16, and an audio output control unit 18. The game control unit 16 is configured as a unit in which a microprocessor and various peripheral devices such as an internal storage device (for example, ROM and RAM) necessary for the operation of the microprocessor are combined.

  The display control unit 17 draws an image corresponding to the image data given from the game control unit 16 in the frame buffer, and outputs a video signal corresponding to the drawn image to the monitor 2, whereby a predetermined signal is displayed on the monitor 2. Display an image. The audio output control unit 18 generates an audio reproduction signal corresponding to the audio reproduction data given from the game control unit 16 and outputs the audio reproduction signal to the speaker 4 to reproduce predetermined audio (including music) from the speaker 4. Let

  In addition, an external storage device 20 is connected to the game control unit 16. As the external storage device 20, a storage medium that can hold the storage without power supply, such as an optical storage medium such as a DVDROM or a CDROM, or a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM, is used.

  The external storage device 20 stores a game program 21 and game data 22. The game program 21 is a computer program necessary for executing a music game according to a predetermined procedure on the game machine 1. The game program 21 includes a sequence control module 23, an evaluation module 24, and a route control module 25 for realizing the functions according to the present invention. When the game machine 1 is activated, the game control unit 16 executes various operations necessary to operate as the game machine 1 by executing the operation program stored in the internal storage device.

  Subsequently, the game control unit 16 sets an environment for executing the music game according to the game program 21. When the sequence control module 23 of the game program 21 is executed by the game control unit 16, a sequence processing unit 26 is generated in the game control unit 16. Further, when the game control unit 16 executes the evaluation module 24 of the game program 21, an operation evaluation unit 27 is generated in the game control unit 16. Furthermore, the route control module 25 of the game program 21 is executed by the game control unit 16, whereby a route control unit 28 is generated in the game control unit 16. The sequence processing unit 26, the operation evaluation unit 27, and the route control unit 28 are logical devices realized by a combination of computer hardware and a computer program.

  The sequence processing unit 26 performs a music game process in which an operation is instructed to the player in accordance with the reproduction of music (music) selected by the player, or an effect such as a sound effect is generated in accordance with the operation of the player. The operation evaluation unit 27 executes a process for evaluating the player's operation. Further, the route control unit 28 executes a process of changing the display mode of a predetermined route displayed during the game. The game program 21 includes various program modules necessary for executing the music game in addition to the modules 23, 24, and 25 described above. The game control unit 16 corresponds to these modules. Although logical devices are generated, they are not shown.

  The game data 22 includes various data to be referred to when executing a music game according to the game program 21. For example, the game data 22 includes music data 29, sound effect data 30, and image data 31. The music data 29 is data necessary to reproduce and output music to be played from the speaker 4. In FIG. 3, one type of music data 29 is shown, but in reality, the player can select music to play from a plurality of music. In the game data 22, a plurality of types of music data 29 respectively corresponding to the plurality of types of music are recorded with information for identifying the music. By storing the music data 29, the external storage device 20 functions as music data storage means.

  The sound effect data 30 is data in which a plurality of types of sound effects to be output from the speaker 4 in response to a player's operation are recorded in association with a unique code for each sound effect. The sound effects include various kinds of sounds such as music. The sound effect data 30 may be prepared for a predetermined number of octaves by changing the pitch for each type. The image data 31 is data for causing the monitor 2 to display a background image, various objects, icons, and the like in the game screen.

  The game data 22 further includes sequence data 32. The sequence data 32 is data defining operations and the like to be instructed to the player. At least one sequence data 32 is prepared for one piece of music data 29. Details of the sequence data 32 will be described later.

  The control panel 3 is provided with a detection device 35 therein. The detection device 35 detects an operation on the button 13 or an operation on the volume controller 9. Specifically, the detection device 35 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the volume controller 9 (or the position of the reference portion in the circumferential direction) or the presence or absence of an operation of pressing the button 13. The detection result of the detection device 35 is output to the game control unit 16 and used for various processes executed by the game control unit 16. A known device may be applied as the detection device 35. The detection device 35 may be provided separately for the volume controller 9 and for the button 13, or may be provided for each of the six buttons 13 and the two volume controllers 9.

  Next, an outline of a music game executed on the game machine 1 will be described. In the game machine 1, a music game is executed in which an appropriate operation corresponding to the music to be played is evaluated. A specific description will be given with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the game screen. As shown in FIG. 4, the game screen 40 includes a route display area KR. The route display area KR includes four tracks TL as a predetermined route and two spare tracks YT. The four tracks TL extend from the back side (upper side) UP as one end side of the screen toward the front side (lower side) DP as the other end side so as to produce a virtual three-dimensional space. The four tracks TL are arranged between two dividing lines SL extending from the back side UP of the screen toward the near side DP. The depth direction TD in which the track TL extends is used as a time axis direction (first direction). These four tracks TL correspond to the four large buttons 13D, respectively. Further, a spare track YT extending from the back side UP of the screen toward the front side DP is arranged on each side of the two dividing lines SL.

  Below the route display area KR (front side), a reference line KL serving as a current time indicator is arranged. The reference line KL extends linearly so as to cross the four tracks TL in the left-right direction (second direction). Each track TL displays an object OJ as a reference mark at an appropriate time. Similarly, a large object DJ is also displayed at an appropriate time. The large object DJ is arranged so as to straddle two left sides or two right sides of the four tracks TL. The object OJ and the large object DJ move from the back side UP of the track TL toward the front side DP. The player is required to execute an appropriate operation in accordance with the arrival of the object OJ and the large object DJ to the reference line KL. Specifically, when the object OJ reaches the reference line KL, the player is requested to press the large button 13D corresponding to the track TL on which the object OJ is arranged. Further, in accordance with the arrival of the large object DJ on the reference line KL, the player is requested to press the small button 13S positioned below the large button 13D corresponding to the two tracks TL over which the large object DJ straddles. A deviation between the player operation time and the time when the object OJ or the large object DJ reaches the reference line KL is evaluated. In this embodiment, one end of the rear side UP of the track TL functions as a starting position, and the reference line KL functions as an arrival position.

  In the route display area KR, the designated route R is displayed at an appropriate time. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of the game screen. As shown in FIG. 5, the game screen 40R includes two designated routes R. The two instruction routes R are arranged on the back side UP of the screen so as to cross each other and draw the letter X. Specifically, one designated route R1 extends from the right spare track YT to the left spare track YT while obliquely intersecting the four tracks TL, and the other designated route R2 extends from the left spare track YT to the right. The four tracks TL extend while obliquely intersecting the spare track YT. One right instruction path R1 corresponds to the right volume controller 9B, and the other left instruction path R2 corresponds to the left volume controller 9A.

  The instruction route R also moves toward the reference line KL with the passage of time. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a game screen after a predetermined time has elapsed from the game screen 40R of FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, two cursors KG corresponding to each of the two designated routes R are displayed on the reference line KL as the designated route R reaches the reference line KL. The cursor KG moves left and right on the reference line KL in response to a rotation operation on the volume controller 9. Specifically, the right cursor KG1 displayed corresponding to the right instruction path R1 is for the right volume controller 9B, and the left cursor KG2 displayed corresponding to the left instruction path R2 is for the rotation operation of the left volume controller 9A. Move accordingly.

  The player is required to perform an operation so that each cursor KG does not protrude from the corresponding instruction route R. In other words, the player is required to perform a rotation operation in which the right cursor KG1 is placed outside the right instruction route R1 and the left cursor KG2 is placed outside the left instruction route R2. If the cursor KG goes out of the indicated route R, a penalty is given. On the other hand, if the cursor KG does not go outside the designated route R until the designated route R passes the reference line KL, a privilege is given. As the penalty, for example, subtraction of a predetermined gauge at which the game ends when the value becomes zero, or subtraction of the acquired score may be used. Moreover, there is no penalty only by granting a privilege. As an example of a privilege, score acquisition, addition of a predetermined gauge, or the like may be used.

  When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the route display area KR including the track TL starts to rotate around a predetermined rotation axis. Further, along with this rotation, the position where the route display region KR is arranged also moves around a predetermined center position. As the predetermined condition, for example, a specific operation in which an appropriate operation is executed in accordance with the arrival of the object OJ to the reference line KL is employed. In addition, as the specific operation, for example, an operation in which the cursor KG does not deviate from the designated route R from one end to the other end of the designated route R may be employed.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a game screen in a state immediately before the track TL starts to rotate. A broken line in FIG. 7 indicates a rotation axis RL as a predetermined rotation axis. As shown in FIG. 7, before starting the rotation, the surface TLs of the track TL is arranged so as to face upward as in the other drawings. The rotation axis RL extends from the back side UP toward the near side DP so as to extend along the direction in which the track TL extends, that is, along the depth direction TD. The rotation axis RL is arranged in the left-right direction of the track TL, that is, in the center of the arrangement direction of the four tracks TL. Note that the rotation axis RL is not displayed on the actual game screen.

  On the other hand, the predetermined center position CP is arranged on the far side UP of the track TL, that is, on the departure position side where the object OJ or the like starts moving. The predetermined center position CP is located on an extension line when the track TL is further extended to the back side. Accordingly, the route display area KR including the track TL is located below the predetermined center position CP. Further, the surface TLs of the track TL is disposed so as to face the predetermined center position CP.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the state of the track TL after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG. In FIG. 8, the position of the rotation axis RL in FIG. 7, that is, the position of the rotation axis RL before starting rotation is indicated by a broken line RLp. As shown in FIG. 8, the route display region KR including the track TL is arranged at a position on the left side of a predetermined center position CP. Further, compared to the broken line RLp indicating the position of the rotation axis RL before the rotation, the rotation axis RL has moved nearly 90 ° so as to turn around the predetermined center position CP in the clockwise direction RD. That is, the position of the route display region KR moves in the clockwise direction RD from the position below the predetermined center position CP to the left side so as to go around the center about the predetermined center position CP. .

  Further, the track TL included in the route display area KR is also inclined due to the rotation. Specifically, the track TL rotates about the rotation axis RL up to an angle of about 90 ° in the right rotation direction RR, that is, about ¼ rotation. For this reason, the surface TLs of the track TL is inclined by approximately 90 ° from the original upward state so as to face the right side. As a result, the surface TLs of the track TL is directed toward the predetermined center position CP even after the movement.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a state in which the track TL has made a half rotation after a certain time has passed since the state of FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, in a state where the track TL is rotated halfway, the route display region KR is disposed above a predetermined center position CP. That is, the position is further moved by 90 degrees in the clockwise direction RD from the position of the route display area KR in FIG. Further, the track TL is rotated about the rotation axis RL in the right rotation direction RR by about 90 ° from the state of FIG. 8 and about 180 ° from the state of FIG. As a result, the surface TLs of the track TL faces the predetermined center position, that is, the lower side even in a half-rotated state.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state of the track TL after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the route display region KR is further rotated by about 90 ° in the right rotation direction RR from the half rotation state of FIG. 9 about the rotation axis RL. With this rotation, the route display region KR also moves in the clockwise direction RD nearly 90 ° from the state of FIG. 9 so as to turn around the predetermined center position CP, and to the right of the predetermined center position CP. Has been placed. That is, the route display region KR is inclined opposite to the state of FIG. 8 across the predetermined center position CP, and is disposed at a position where the surface TLs of the track TL faces the predetermined center position CP located on the left side. ing. Therefore, also in this case, the surface TLs of the track TL faces the predetermined center position CP.

  When a certain time has elapsed from the state of FIG. 10, the route display region KR including the track TL returns to the original state before starting the rotation, that is, the state of FIG. Thus, the time when the route display region KR makes one rotation around the rotation axis RL coincides with the time when the route display region KR goes around the predetermined center position CP and returns to the original position. Yes. That is, the route display region KR rotates and moves in a circular manner so that the rotation angle that rotates around the rotation axis RL coincides with the movement angle that moves around the predetermined center position CP. Further, the rotating direction of the circular movement and the rotational direction of the rotation are both the same direction as the right direction. That is, the circulation direction and the rotation direction have a correspondence relationship with each other. As a result, the route display region KR rotates around the predetermined center position CP while rotating around the predetermined center position CP so that the surface TLs of the track TL always faces the predetermined center position CP.

  On the other hand, each element (including each function) for changing the music being reproduced is assigned to each volume controller 9A, 9B. For example, a guitar sound is assigned to the left volume controller 9A of the A region 3A, and a vocal sound is assigned to the right volume controller 9B as elements that change the music. Then, the volume of the guitar sound or vocal sound changes in accordance with the rotation operation on each volume controller 9A, 9B.

  In addition, for example, an effector function may be assigned to the volume controller 9. Specifically, the degree of the effect on the music may change according to the rotation operation on the volume controller 9. As such an effect, for example, a change that emphasizes a sound in a specific frequency band with respect to the original sound source of the music may be realized. In this case, the emphasized band frequency may be increased or decreased according to the rotation operation on the volume controller 9.

  Alternatively, the volume controller 9 may be assigned a scratch function, that is, a function for increasing or decreasing the playback speed of music. Specifically, in accordance with a rotation operation on the volume controller 9, a scratch effect corresponding to an increase in the reproduction speed and a scratch effect corresponding to a decrease in the reproduction speed may be generated in the music. The button 13 may be assigned a predetermined sound effect. That is, a predetermined sound effect may be added to the music piece by pressing the button 13.

  Next, details of the sequence data 32 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents of the sequence data 32. As shown in FIG. 11, the sequence data 32 includes a condition definition unit 32a and an operation sequence unit 32b. Information for designating various conditions for executing the game, such as music tempo, beat, track, and music length, is described in the condition definition section 32a.

  On the other hand, in the operation sequence part 32b, an operation instruction for the button 13 and the volume controller 9 is described in association with the time in the music. In addition, the operation sequence unit 32b includes an instruction such as a time to rotate the route display area KR. As shown in FIG. 11, the operation sequence unit 32b is used to place an instruction path information unit 32r used to form the instruction path R and an object OJ or a large object DJ on the track TL. It includes an object information part 32i and a rotation condition information part 32s used for instructing the timing and conditions for rotating the route display area KR.

  The instruction path information unit 32r includes information on the time in the music (reference time) and a reference line KL extending in the left-right direction (second direction) intersecting the time axis direction (depth direction TD) as the position in the cross direction. Information on the position (position information), information on the width of the designated route R, and information on the designated route pattern are included. The designated route information unit 32r is configured as a set of a plurality of records in which these pieces of information are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 11, each piece of information includes the time in the music at which the designated route R starts, that is, information on the start time, information on the position on the reference line KL at the start time of the designated route R, and music on which the designated route R ends. Information from the left is described in the order of the middle time, that is, the end time, the position information on the reference line KL at the end time of the designated route R, the width information of the designated route R, and the designated route pattern information. In addition, "LINE POINT" is described at the beginning of the instruction route information section 32r. The instruction route information part 32r is distinguished from other information parts, for example, the object information part 32i or the rotation condition information part 32s by this description.

  The reference time information such as the start time and the end time is described by separating a bar number in the music, the number of beats, and a value indicating the time in the beat with a comma. The time during a beat is the elapsed time from the beginning of one beat, and is expressed by the number of units from the beginning by equally dividing the length of one beat into n unit times. For example, if n = 100, the second beat of the first measure of the music and a time that has passed by ¼ from the beginning of the beat is designated as the reference time, “01, 2, 025” is described. Is done.

  The information on the position on the reference line KL is described using numerical values indicating the respective positions in the left-right direction in which the reference line KL extends. For example, as a numerical value indicating each position, the horizontal length of the reference line KL is equally divided by a predetermined number, and each position corresponding to the equally divided unit length (unit range) is sequentially from the left end. The number (number of unit length) when numbered is used. In the example of FIG. 11, 128 is used as the predetermined number. Each position is numbered sequentially from the left end position of the reference line KL to the right end position, such as 0, 1, 2, and so on up to 128 at the right end position. That is, a numerical value of 0 is described when the left end position of the reference line KL is specified, and a numerical value of 128 is described when the right end position is specified. Note that the information on the reference line KL means that the designated route R is arranged at a position on the reference line KL designated by a numerical value when the reference time corresponding to the information arrives. That is, the information on the reference line KL means the position of the portion that overlaps the designated route R on the reference line KL. Further, before the reference time arrives, the position information on the reference line KL functions as designation of each position in the left-right direction of the track TL corresponding to the position in the left-right direction of the reference line KL or the spare track YT. .

  Information on the position on the reference line KL also functions as information specifying the volume controller 9. Specifically, when the position on the reference line KL associated with the end time corresponds to the right end position, the right volume controller 9B is used. When the position corresponds to the left end position, the left volume controller 9A is used. Each function as information to be designated. The designation of the left and right volume controllers 9A and 9B may be performed using the description at the beginning of the instruction path information unit 32r. For example, when the description at the beginning is “LINE POINT1”, the left side volume controller 9A may function as the left volume controller 9A, and when “LINE POINT2”, the right side volume controller 9B may function as the corresponding instruction path information unit 32r.

  The width of the instruction path R is specified using a unit length indicating each position on the reference line KL. For example, the width of the designated route R is described as “10”, and in this case, a unit length of 10 pieces is designated. The designated route pattern is designated using alphabets associated with each designated route pattern. For example, “A” is associated with the X-type pattern corresponding to the example of FIG. 5, and “B” is associated with the other patterns. When an X-type pattern corresponding to the example of FIG. 5 is designated, “A” is described as the designated route pattern. Such association between the designated route pattern and the alphabet is realized by a separate table (not shown).

  In the example of FIG. 11, the start time (“000”) of the second beat of the first measure is the start time, and the time when “016” has elapsed from the start time of the second beat of the first measure is the end time, respectively. The left end position (“0”) of the reference line KL as the start time position is specified, and the right end position (“128”) of the reference line KL is specified as the end time position. Further, “10” is designated as the width of the designated route R, and “A”, that is, the X type is designated as the pattern. Therefore, it starts to reach the position of the left end of the reference line KL at the start time of the second beat of the first measure (“000”), and “016” has elapsed from the start time of the second beat of the first measure. An instruction route R extending so as to draw a character X with a width “10” so as to end at the right end position at the time is displayed.

  On the other hand, the object information portion 32i includes information on the time in the music, track information for designating any of the four tracks TL, and object information for designating the type of the object. The object information part 32i is configured as a set of a plurality of records in which these pieces of information are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 11, each piece of information is described in the order of time information in the music, track information, and object information from the left. Further, “ITEM POINT” is described at the beginning of the object information part 32i, and this description distinguishes it from other information parts, for example, the instruction route information part 32r or the rotation condition information part 32s.

  Information on the time in the music is described in the same way as the instruction route information section 32r. This time corresponds to the time when the object should reach the reference line KL. In other words, this time period functions as an operation time specification for performing an appropriate operation. The track information is described using information specifying four tracks TL. For example, numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 are assigned in order from the leftmost track TL. When the leftmost track TL is designated, the information “track1” is designated. When the adjacent track TL is designated, “ Information “track2” is described respectively. The object information is described using alphabets associated with the object OJ or the large object DJ. For example, “S” is associated with the object OJ. Further, according to the position of the appearing track TL, the large object DJ corresponds to “A” when straddling the left two tracks TL and “B” straddling the right two tracks TL, respectively. It is attached. In addition, other alphabets may be associated with the types of large objects DJ according to the length and the like.

  In the example of FIG. 11, the object OJ (“S”) that moves on the leftmost track TL (“track1”) so as to reach the reference line KL at the start time (“000”) of the first beat of the first measure. The instruction to display is described. On the other hand, an instruction to display a large object DJ moving across the two tracks TL on the left side so as to reach the reference line KL at the time when “0012” has elapsed from the start time of the first beat of the first bar is also described. ing.

  The rotation condition information section 32s includes rotation timing information indicating a rotation timing at which rotation should be started, execution condition information indicating an execution condition to be provided for starting rotation, and rotation indicating a rotation type such as a rotation direction. Rotation type information as direction information is included. The rotation condition information unit 32s is configured as a set of a plurality of records in which these pieces of information are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 11, the rotation time information, the execution condition information, and the rotation type information are described from the left. In addition, “ROTATION POINT” is described at the beginning of the rotation condition information section 32s. The rotation condition information part 32s is distinguished from other information parts, for example, the instruction route information part 32r or the object information part 32i by this description.

  In the rotation time information, the rotation time at which rotation should be started is described in the same manner as the reference time information in the instruction path information unit 32r. In other words, the bar number, the number of beats, and the value indicating the time during the beat are described by being separated by commas. In the execution condition information, numbers such as “0” and “1” indicating execution conditions are described. These numbers are associated with specific conditions. For example, “0” is associated with a condition that an appropriate operation is performed on the object OJ, and “1” is an appropriate operation for the designated route R (so that the cursor KG does not deviate from the designated route R). This is associated with the condition that the movement is performed). Such association may be realized by a table (not shown), for example. Using this table, execution conditions can be specified from numbers described as execution condition information. The sequence data 32 functions as the rotation timing data of the present invention by including the rotation timing information, and functions as the execution condition data of the present invention by including the execution condition information.

  The rotation type information is described by a symbol in which a minus sign and a number such as “−1” and “−2” are combined. These symbols are associated with specific types of rotation. For example, “−1” is associated with a rotation type of one rotation clockwise (right rotation), and “−2” is associated with a rotation type of one rotation counterclockwise (left rotation). Such association may be realized by a table (not shown), for example. Using this table, the rotation direction or rotation angle can be specified from the symbols described as the rotation type information. Further, the rotation direction in which the route display region KR rotates and the rotation direction in which the route display region KR rotates around a predetermined center position CP are in a correspondence relationship. For this reason, the rotation type information also corresponds to designation of the rotation direction. Specifically, when the clockwise direction is specified, the clockwise direction is specified as the rotating direction, and when the counterclockwise direction is specified, the counterclockwise direction is specified. The rotation type information functions as rotation direction information by including information specifying the rotation direction. Further, the rotation type information also functions as angle specifying information by including information specifying the rotation angle such as one rotation. Therefore, the sequence data 32 also functions as rotation direction data and angle specifying data by including such rotation type information.

  The symbol used for the rotation type information is not limited to a symbol in which a minus sign and a number are combined. For example, a simple number such as “1” may be used. Further, the rotation angle is not limited to one rotation. For example, an angle such as half rotation, ¼ rotation, or 30 ° rotation may be used as the rotation angle. The designation of the rotation angle may be realized by a symbol in which the rotation direction and the rotation angle are associated with each other, for example, “-3” designates half rotation clockwise. Or the rotation angle information which instruct | indicates a rotation angle may be provided in the rotation condition information part 32s separately from rotation type information. In this case, the rotation angle information functions as angle specifying information. As the rotation angle information, numbers associated with rotation angles such as one rotation, half rotation, and 1/4 rotation may be described. In this case, the rotation type information may be used only for specifying the rotation direction such as clockwise or counterclockwise. Furthermore, the rotation angle information and the rotation type information may function as designation of circular movement in the same angle and in the same direction. Alternatively, information for specifying designation related to the circular movement such as the circular direction may be separately provided.

  In the example of FIG. 11, the time when “024” has elapsed from the start time of the second beat of the fourth measure is designated as the time for starting rotation. As an execution condition at this time, a condition that an appropriate operation is executed on the object OJ is specified. In addition, one rotation is designated counterclockwise (left rotation) as the type of rotation at this time. Therefore, in this example, when an appropriate operation is performed on the object OJ at a time “024” after the start time of the second beat of the fourth measure, the route display area KR is rotated counterclockwise ( A rotation instruction is described in such a manner that it is rotated once (left rotation).

  Based on the sequence data 32 described above, the game control unit 16 performs various processes such as a process for displaying the designated path R, a process for displaying the object OJ or the large object DJ, and a process for rotating the path display area KR. Will run. By executing these processes, the game control unit 16 causes the instruction route R so that the instruction route R, the object OJ, and the large object DJ coincide with the reference line KL at the reference time designated by the sequence data 32. The display of the object OJ and the large object DJ is controlled. Further, the game control unit 16 rotates the route display area KR including the track TL when an appropriate operation is executed at an appropriate time.

  Next, processing when the game control unit 16 executes a music game will be described. When the game control unit 16 reads the game program 21 and completes the initial setting necessary for executing the music game, the game control unit 16 stands by in preparation for an instruction to start the game from the player. The instruction to start the game includes, for example, an operation for specifying data used in the game such as selection of music to be played in the game or difficulty. The procedure for receiving these instructions may be the same as that of a known music game or the like.

  When the game start is instructed, the game control unit 16 reads the music data 29 corresponding to the music selected by the player and outputs the music data 29 to the audio output control unit 18 to start playback of the music from the speaker 4. Thereby, the control unit 15 functions as a music reproducing means.

  Further, the game control unit 16 reads the sequence data 32 corresponding to the player's selection in synchronization with the reproduction of the music, and generates and displays the image data necessary for drawing the game screen while referring to the image data 31. Output to the control unit 17. As a result, the game control unit 16 displays a game screen on the monitor 2. In addition, during the execution of the music game, the game control unit 16 performs an instruction path display process routine shown in FIG. 12, a cursor display process routine shown in FIG. 13, and a cursor shown in FIG. The position control processing routine, the path rotation processing routine shown in FIG. 15, and the operation evaluation routine shown in FIG. 16 are repeatedly executed at predetermined intervals. The routine shown in FIG. 12, the routine shown in FIG. 13, and the routine shown in FIG. 14 are handled by the sequence processing unit 26, the routine shown in FIG. 15 is handled by the route control unit 28, and the routine shown in FIG. . In addition, the game control unit 16 executes processing for controlling the display of the object OJ or the large object DJ, etc., but since it is realized by well-known processing, detailed description of these processing is omitted. To do.

  When the instruction route display processing routine of FIG. 12 is started, the sequence processing unit 26 of the game control unit 16 first acquires the current time on the music in step S1. The current time is obtained from the value of the internal clock, for example, with the internal clock of the game control unit 16 being started with the music reproduction start time as a reference. In the following step S2, the sequence processing unit 26 uses the reference time (start time, end time) and reference line of the instruction path information unit 32r included in the time length (predetermined time range) to be displayed on the game screen from the sequence data 32. Each information such as position, width, and pattern on KL is acquired. For example, the predetermined time range is set to a time length corresponding to two measures of the music from the current time.

  In the next step S3, the sequence processing unit 26 calculates each coordinate in the game screen corresponding to each reference time (start time and end time) included in the display range acquired in step S2. The calculation is performed as follows as an example. First, the sequence processing unit 26 determines which volume controller 9 is associated with the designated route R included in the display range. This determination is made based on the position on the reference line KL designated as the end time of the designated route R. For example, when the right end position on the reference line KL is designated as the end time, it corresponds to the right volume controller 9B, and when the left end position is designated, it corresponds to the left volume controller 9A. Determined. Next, the position of each reference time in the time axis direction (that is, the depth direction TD) is determined from the position of the reference line KL according to the time difference between each reference time and the current time. Further, the position in the left-right direction at each reference time is determined based on the position information on the reference line KL associated with each reference time. Thus, it is possible to acquire the coordinates of each designated position in the left-right direction corresponding to each designated reference time in a time sequence along the time axis from the position of the reference line KL.

  When the calculation of the coordinates corresponding to each reference time is completed, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the sequence processing unit 26 generates image data necessary for drawing the designated route R based on the coordinates of the reference time calculated in step S3 and each information acquired in step S2. The generation of the image data is performed based on the coordinates of each reference time (start time, end time), information on the width of the instruction route R, and information on the instruction route pattern included in the instruction route information unit 32r. Specifically, image data for displaying the designated route R in which the coordinates of the start time and the coordinates of the end time are connected according to the designated route pattern so as to have the width of the designated designated route R is generated. Thereby, image data for displaying the instruction route R extending in the time axis direction according to the designated instruction route pattern while passing through the left and right positions designated in the order of time of each reference time, that is, the start time and the end time. Is generated.

  In subsequent step S5, the sequence processing unit 26 outputs the image data generated in step S4 to the display control unit 17, and ends the current routine. By repeatedly executing the above processing, an instruction route R extending in the depth direction TD is displayed on the game screen at a reference time described in the sequence data 32 while passing through a predetermined horizontal position. In addition, the instruction route R is moved and displayed in the depth direction TD so that the position corresponding to each reference time of the instruction route R matches the position of the reference line KL at the current time.

  Next, the cursor display processing routine of FIG. 13 will be described. The routine of FIG. 13 is a process for controlling the display of the cursor KG on the reference line KL. When the routine of FIG. 13 is started, the sequence processing unit 26 acquires information about the start time and end time of the designated route R included in the display range from the designated route information unit 32r of the sequence data 32. In subsequent step S12, the sequence processing unit 26 determines whether or not the cursor KG is already displayed on the game screen, that is, whether or not the cursor KG is displayed.

  If the determination result in step S12 is a negative result, that is, if it is determined that the cursor KG is not displayed in the game screen, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S13. In step S13, the sequence processing unit 26 determines whether or not the current time is the start time, that is, whether or not the start time of the designated route R has arrived, based on the information acquired in step S11. If this determination is negative, that is, if the start time has not arrived, the subsequent processing is skipped and the current routine is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the determination result of step S13 is affirmative determination, that is, when the start time has come, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the sequence processing unit 26 starts displaying the cursor KG at a predetermined position, and proceeds to step S15. Further, as the predetermined position, a portion overlapping with the instruction route R on the reference line KL is used. In step S15, the sequence processing unit executes a subroutine for cursor position control processing. Details of this subroutine will be described later. When the process of step S15 is completed, the sequence processing unit 26 ends the current routine.

  On the other hand, if the determination result in step S12 is a positive result, that is, if it is determined that the cursor KG is already displayed in the game screen, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the sequence processing unit 26 determines whether or not the current time is the end time, that is, whether or not the end time of the designated route R has arrived, based on the information acquired in step S11. If this determination is a negative result, that is, if the end time has not come, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the sequence processing unit 26 executes a cursor position control subroutine, and ends the current routine. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S16 is a positive result, that is, if the end time has come, the sequence processing unit 26 proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the sequence processing unit 26 erases the display of the cursor KG from the game screen, that is, ends the display of the cursor KG, and ends the current routine.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of a cursor position control processing routine. This routine is called and executed in step S15 of the routine of FIG. 13 as a subroutine of the routine of FIG. When the routine of FIG. 14 is started, first, in step S21, the sequence processing unit 26 obtains an operation result for the volume controller 9 of the player. Specifically, the rotation direction and the rotation amount of each volume controller 9 are acquired with reference to the output signal of the detection device 35 as the operation result of the player.

  In subsequent step S22, the sequence processing unit 26 calculates the coordinates of the cursor KG corresponding to the operation result based on each operation result acquired in step S21. Specifically, the coordinates of the cursor KG to be displayed as the movement destination according to the operation result are calculated. The calculation of the coordinates is executed as follows as an example. First, the sequence processing unit 26 determines the direction in which the cursor KG is moved based on the acquired rotation direction. Specifically, the right direction is determined as the direction to be moved when the volume controller 9 is operated to rotate right, and the left direction is determined as the direction to be moved when operation is performed to the left. . Next, the movement amount is determined based on the rotation amount. This determination is realized by setting the determination range to a part of the range in which the volume controller 9 can be rotated (for example, 360 °). Specifically, first, an angle set as the discrimination range is equally divided by a predetermined number (a number common to the position information of the reference line KL), and a unit angle is calculated. Next, the rotation amount, that is, the rotation angle is replaced with the unit angle quantity. Then, the unit length for this quantity is calculated as the movement amount. The coordinates of the cursor KG to be displayed as the movement destination from the movement direction and the movement amount (movement length) calculated in this way and the coordinates of the current cursor KG (a predetermined position at the start of display). Is calculated.

  In the next step S23, the sequence processing unit 26 generates image data necessary for drawing the cursor KG based on the coordinates calculated in step S22. Specifically, image data for displaying the cursor KG at the coordinates of the movement destination calculated in step S22 is generated. In subsequent step S24, the sequence processing unit 26 outputs the image data to the display control unit 17, and ends the current routine. By executing the above processing, the cursor KG is displayed on the reference line KL, and the cursor KG moves on the reference line KL in response to an operation on the volume controller 9.

  Next, the route rotation processing routine of FIG. 15 will be described. The routine in FIG. 15 is a process for rotating the route display area KR. When the routine of FIG. 15 is started, the route control unit 28 first acquires various types of information of the sequence data 32 in step S31. Specifically, the route control unit 28 acquires each information of the rotation condition information unit 32 s from the sequence data 32. At this time, the route control unit 28 may acquire all the information of the rotation condition information unit 32s, or acquire only each information corresponding to the rotation time to start the rotation included in the predetermined time range. May be. In addition, when the rotation is executed under the condition of a specific operation, information on the time (operation time) in the music of the object information unit 32i may be acquired in order to determine whether or not the execution condition is satisfied. .

  In next step S <b> 32, the route control unit 28 refers to the output signal of the detection device 35 and acquires the operation result of the player. For example, the route control unit 28 refers to the output signal of the detection device 35 and acquires the operation result such as the button 13 on which the operation is performed and the timing at which the operation is performed. At this time, an operation result included in a predetermined evaluation time may be acquired based on the current time. As the predetermined evaluation time, for example, a time until a predetermined time before the current time with respect to the current time may be employed, or a predetermined time before and after the current time may be employed. In subsequent step S33, the route control unit 28 determines whether or not the current time corresponds to the rotation timing at which rotation is to be started, based on the rotation timing information of the sequence data 32 acquired in step S31. The current time is obtained from the value of the internal clock, for example, with the internal clock of the game control unit 16 being started with the music reproduction start time as a reference. When this determination result is a negative result, that is, when the current time does not correspond to the rotation time, the subsequent processing is skipped and the current routine is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the determination result in step S33 is a positive result, that is, if the current time corresponds to the rotation time, the route control unit 28 proceeds to step S34. In step S34, the route control unit 28 executes the rotation within a predetermined evaluation time range based on the rotation condition information unit 32s of the sequence data 32 acquired in step S31 and the operation result acquired in step S32. It is determined whether or not the condition is satisfied. More specifically, an execution condition corresponding to the rotation time corresponding to the current time is specified, and it is determined whether or not the specified execution condition is satisfied within a predetermined evaluation time range. At this time, it may be determined whether or not the actual operation time is an appropriate operation time using the time in the music of the object information unit 32i. For example, if the specified execution condition is “0”, the execution condition is satisfied when an appropriate operation is executed on the object OJ, and the execution condition is set when an appropriate operation is not executed. Not fulfilled. If the determination result is a negative result, the route control unit 28 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current routine.

  On the other hand, when the determination result of step S34 is affirmative, the route control unit 28 proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the route control unit 28 starts rotation of the route display region KR and circular movement around a predetermined center position CP. At this time, based on the rotation type information of the sequence data 32, the route control unit 28 executes these rotations and circular movements up to a specified angle in a specified direction. The rotation and the circular movement of the route display area KR may be realized by a known technique. When the process of step S35 is completed, the route control unit 28 ends the current routine. Thereby, the rotation and the circular movement of the route display area KR based on the designation of the sequence data 32 are realized.

  Next, the operation evaluation routine of FIG. 16 will be described. The routine of FIG. 16 is a process for evaluating a player's operation on the volume controller 9. Further, the routine of FIG. 16 is executed for each designated route R, that is, for each volume controller 9. When the routine of FIG. 16 is started, the operation evaluation unit 27 first determines in step S41 whether or not the indicated route R has reached the reference line KL. This determination is realized, for example, by comparing the current time with the start time and end time of the instruction route R. Specifically, if the current time is between the start time and the end time, it is determined that the instruction route R has reached the reference line KL, and if they are different, the instruction route R has reached the reference line KL. It is judged that it is not. If this determination result is a negative result, the subsequent processing is skipped and the current routine is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the determination result in step S41 is a positive result, that is, if the designated route R has reached the reference line KL, the operation evaluation unit 27 proceeds to step S42. In step S42, the operation evaluation unit 27 acquires the coordinates of the cursor KG on the reference line KL. The coordinates may be acquired using the processing result of FIG. 14 or may be acquired by the same process as step S22 of FIG.

  In subsequent step S43, the operation evaluation unit 27 specifies the range of the designated route R on the reference line KL corresponding to the current time. This specification is performed as follows as an example. First, the elapsed time from the start time is calculated by comparing the start time of the instruction route R with the current time. Next, based on the information on the width of the designated route R and the information on the connection pattern, the left end coordinates and the right end coordinates on the reference line KL of the designated route R at the elapsed time are calculated. Thus, by calculating the coordinates of both ends of the designated route R on the reference line KL, the range of the designated route R on the reference line KL, that is, the overlapping range where the reference line KL and the designated route R overlap is specified.

  In the next step S44, the operation evaluation unit 27 determines an evaluation. This determination is performed as follows as an example. First, it is determined whether or not the coordinates of the cursor KG acquired in step S42 are included in an overlapping range where the reference line KL and the designated route R specified in step S43 overlap. When the coordinates of the cursor KG are included in the overlapping range, the operation evaluation unit 27 determines the evaluation as a result of giving a privilege (or exempting a penalty). On the other hand, when the coordinates of the cursor KG are not included in the overlapping range, that is, when the position of the cursor KG is out of the designated route R, the result is determined that a penalty is given (or no privilege is given). In this way, the operation evaluation unit 27 determines the evaluation in step S44.

  In subsequent step S45, the operation evaluation unit 27 controls the output to the display control unit 17 so that the evaluation result of step S44 is reflected in the display of the game screen. Specifically, in accordance with the evaluation result of granting a privilege, score addition, gauge increase, and the like are reflected in the game screen display. On the other hand, in accordance with the evaluation result of penalty, a decrease in gauge or the like is reflected on the display of the game screen. When the process of step S45 is completed, the operation evaluation unit 27 ends the current routine.

  Some conventional music games do not display a predetermined route. However, when a predetermined route is not displayed, it is difficult to measure the timing at which the operation should be executed. Therefore, it is easier for the player to play the predetermined route. In addition, there is a music game that guides the operation timing to the player using a predetermined route extending while changing the traveling direction. However, such a predetermined route does not change from the original form, that is, the initially set route. That is, the object or the like only travels along a fixed route. For this reason, habituation and interest are likely to deteriorate.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, when the predetermined execution condition is satisfied, the route display region KR starts to rotate and rotate at a predetermined time. The route display area KR includes a track TL. The track TL is used to instruct the player's operation time and the like through the object OJ and the like. That is, the route display area KR is likely to attract the attention of the player. For this reason, a change and a stimulus can be provided to the player through rotation and circular movement of the route display area KR. Thereby, since player's familiarity can be suppressed, the interest property of a game can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the control unit 15 causes the route control unit 28 to execute the routine of FIG. 15 to function as a route rotation unit and a route position change unit. Further, the control unit 15 displays the track TL, the reference line KL, and the object OJ through the sequence processing unit 26, and executes a known process for moving the object OJ toward the reference line KL along the track TL. It functions as an operation guide means. The external storage device 20 functions as sequence data storage means by storing the sequence data 32. Furthermore, the external storage device 20 functions as a rotation timing data storage unit when the sequence data 32 functions as rotation timing data, and functions as an execution condition data storage unit when it functions as execution condition data. Further, the external storage device 20 functions as an angle specification data storage unit when the sequence data 32 functions as angle specification data, and functions as a rotation direction data storage unit when it functions as rotation direction data.

  This invention is not limited to the above-mentioned form, It can implement with a suitable form. In the above-described form, the object OJ is not displayed on the track TL while the route display area KR is rotating. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, a reference sign for instructing an operation of an object or the like may be displayed on a predetermined path during rotation of the predetermined path, and an appropriate operation may be requested from the player even during rotation.

  In the above-described form, the predetermined path rotates once, but the rotation angle is not limited to such an angle. For example, an appropriate angle such as half rotation or 1/4 rotation may be adopted as the rotation angle. Such a rotation angle is realized using, for example, the sequence data as described above.

  In the above embodiment, a specific operation is adopted as the predetermined condition for rotating the predetermined route, but the predetermined condition is not limited to such a form. For example, when a predetermined option in the game is acquired, a condition according to a game situation such as a case where a predetermined score or more is acquired may be adopted as the predetermined condition. Therefore, the execution conditions, the rotation timing, the rotation angle, and the like used for determining whether or not to rotate are not limited to the form specified by the sequence data or the like. For example, it may be described directly on the program.

  The predetermined rotation axis that the predetermined path uses as the center of rotation is not limited to an axis that extends along the predetermined path. For example, an axis extending in a direction intersecting with a predetermined route may be employed as the predetermined rotation axis. When the direction in which the predetermined rotation axis extends matches the direction in which the predetermined path extends, the direction in which the predetermined path extends can be matched before and after the rotation. On the other hand, if they do not match, a change occurs in the direction in which the predetermined path extends before and after the rotation, so that a larger change can be given.

  In the above embodiment, a music game is adopted as a game executed on the game machine, but the game executed on the game machine is not limited to the music game. As long as the position of the reference portion is designated at the reference time to be operated, various games such as a role playing game and an action game may be executed on the game machine. Furthermore, the game system of the present invention is realized in an appropriate form such as a commercial game machine installed in a commercial facility, a home-use game machine, a portable game machine, or a game system realized using a network. May be.

1 game machine 3 control panel (input device)
4 Speaker (Audio output device)
13 button (operation unit)
15 Control unit (operation guide means, route rotation means, route position change means, music reproduction means)
20 External storage device (sequence data storage means, music data storage means, rotation time data storage means, execution condition data storage means, angle specification data storage means, rotation direction data storage means)
30 sequence data (sequence data, rotation time data, execution condition data, angle specification data, rotation direction data)
40 game screen TL track (predetermined route)
KL reference line (current time sign)
UP back side (departure position)
DP front side (arrival position)
OJ object (reference sign)
RL rotation axis (predetermined rotation axis)
CP Predetermined center position

Claims (13)

A game machine in which a reference sign that moves along a predetermined route from a starting position to an arrival position is displayed on a game screen,
Data storage means for storing placement data for placing the reference mark on the predetermined path;
Based on the placement data, a sign placement means for placing the reference sign on the predetermined route;
Path rotating means for rotating the predetermined path around a predetermined rotation axis during a game based on a predetermined condition;
A path that changes the position where the predetermined path is arranged so that the predetermined path gradually moves around the predetermined center position with the rotation of the predetermined path. Position changing means;
A game machine comprising:   The route position changing means arranges the predetermined route according to a rotation angle of the predetermined route so that the predetermined route returns to the original position where the movement is started in a state where the predetermined route is rotated once. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein a position to be played is changed.   3. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path in a direction corresponding to a rotation direction in which the predetermined path moves around the predetermined center position.   The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined rotation axis extends along the predetermined path.   The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the predetermined center position is on an extension line of the predetermined route and is disposed on the start position side. A rotation timing data storage means for storing rotation timing data in which a rotation timing for rotating the predetermined path is described;
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path at the rotation time described in the rotation time data. Execution condition data storage means for storing execution condition data in which execution condition information for specifying whether or not to rotate the predetermined path is described;
The route rotation means uses the execution condition specified by the execution condition information as the predetermined condition, and rotates the predetermined route when the execution condition is satisfied. A game machine given in any 1 paragraph. Angle specifying data storage means for storing angle specifying data in which angle specifying information for specifying the rotation angle of the predetermined path is described;
The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path to a rotation angle specified by the angle specifying information based on the angle specifying data. Rotation direction data storage means for storing rotation direction data in which rotation direction information for specifying the rotation direction of the predetermined path is described;
The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path in a direction specified by the rotation direction information based on the rotation direction data. An input device having at least one operation unit;
Sequence data storage means for storing sequence data in which operation timings for performing operations on the operation unit during the game are described;
The operation time included in a predetermined time range from the current time on the game toward the future is determined based on the sequence data, the reference sign is displayed corresponding to each determined operation time, and the current time The reference sign together with the current time sign corresponding to the display is displayed in time sequence along the predetermined path on the game, and the time difference between each operation time and the current time is reduced. By causing a relative displacement along the predetermined path between the reference sign and the current time sign so that a distance between the reference sign and the current time sign is reduced, the operation time is Operation guidance means for guiding,
The sequence data is used as the arrangement data,
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the sequence data storage unit functions as the data storage unit, and the operation guide unit functions as the sign placement unit. A specific operation for the operation unit is adopted as the predetermined condition,
The game machine according to claim 10, wherein the path rotation unit rotates the predetermined path when the specific operation is executed. An audio output device for reproducing and outputting audio;
Music data storage means for storing music data for reproducing music;
Music playback means for playing back the music from the audio output device based on the music data;
The game machine according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the sequence data includes a time during reproduction of the music as the operation time. A game machine in which a reference sign that moves along a predetermined route from a starting position to an arrival position is displayed on a game screen, and data that stores arrangement data for arranging the reference sign on the predetermined route A computer incorporated in a game machine having storage means,
A sign placement means for placing the reference sign on the predetermined path based on the placement data, a path rotation means for rotating the predetermined path around a predetermined rotation axis based on a predetermined condition, and A path that changes the position where the predetermined path is arranged so that the predetermined path gradually moves around the predetermined center position with the rotation of the predetermined path. A computer program for a game machine configured to function as position changing means.

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