JP2020054820A - Communication game system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a network game that enables communication with a friend with which identification information is exchanged to be performed via a network, and thus is safely and easily joined.SOLUTION: A communication game system includes, for example, a plurality of game devices wirelessly communicable with each other. Each game device registers identification information of a partner, which is obtained via short-range wireless communication or by a manual input, in a friend list. Then, the game device connects to the Internet to inquire, for example, with a server about a possibility of network communication with the partner in the friend list. When it is determined that the network communication is possible, the game device acquires an address of the partner and performs network communication. When the game device is connected by another game device during communication with a partner device, the game device transmits the identification information of the other game device to the partner device and the identification information of the partner device to the other game device such that these communication partner devices are introduced to each other. The game devices, which have received the introduction, each performs communication with the introduced partner device via the network, and adds the identification information of the partner device to the friend list, if necessary.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication game system, a game device used therefor, a game program of the game device, a server and a communication processing program of the server, and more particularly, for example, a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network, and a communication game system used therefor. The present invention relates to a game device, a game program of the game device, a server, and a communication processing program of the server.

  In a conventional network game system or online game system, for example, a player connects to a server from a terminal (a personal computer, a dedicated game machine, or the like) via a network, and a player from another terminal connected to the server. To determine a game opponent, and play a game (competition game, role playing game, etc.) together with the player. An example of this type of network game system is disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example. The players who play network games are basically strangers. Each player, for example, communicates in a chat room to determine whether or not to play a game, or suddenly plays a game with an unknown player. In addition, players who wish to play a net game with their friends are required to set a schedule such as a time and a play place (a server, a lobby or a room, etc.) in advance, and connect from their own terminals to the server according to the schedule. Playing games with friends.

On the other hand, Patent Document 2 by the present applicant discloses an example of a game system for performing a communication game by short-range wireless communication. In the technique of Patent Literature 2, a communication battle game is played between a plurality of game devices by searching for another game device existing within a communicable range.
JP-A-2002-45573 JP 2005-6766 A

  In conventional network game systems, you can communicate with strangers, so if your opponent has the information you need to communicate, you can unilaterally communicate without knowing your opponent at all. Sometimes connected. In this way, since you have to play the game suddenly with an unknown opponent, there is anxiety about rules such as some human vandalism due to anonymity and manner violations, etc. There was a face that was difficult to attach. Further, in order to play with friends, it is necessary to communicate the time and the like in advance by telephone, e-mail, etc., and to act as expected, which is a problem that it is troublesome.

  As described above, the conventional network game includes elements that cause anxiety or annoyance to the user, and is not always easy for general game users to participate in, and can be enjoyed safely or casually. could not.

  On the other hand, in the technique of Patent Document 2, by performing short-range wireless communication, a communication game can be performed with a nearby partner, for example, while looking at each other's faces, so that the game can be enjoyed safely and casually. . However, since the player can play the game only within the wireless communication range, the players cannot enjoy the communication game if they move away from the opponent due to returning home or the like.

  Therefore, a main object of the present invention is to provide a novel communication game system, and a game device, a game program, a server, and a server communication processing program used therein.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a communication game system and a game device, a game program, a server, and a communication processing program for the server, which can realize a network game that is easy to participate in.

  A further object of the present invention is to provide a communication game system and a game device, a game program, a server, and a communication processing program for the server, which can perform network communication only with a partner whose identification information is registered. .

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a communication game system, a game device, a game program, a server, and a communication processing program of the server, which can communicate with a partner who has communicated by short-range wireless communication even at a remote place. It is to be.

  A first invention (an invention of claim 1) is a communication game system including a plurality of game devices. Each game device includes a first storage unit, a registration unit, a network connection unit, a determination unit, and a first communication unit. The first storage means stores its own identification information. The registration unit registers opponent identification information that is identification information of another game device. The network connection unit connects to an access point accessible to a network for performing network communication. The determination means determines whether network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the other party identification information registered by the registration means when the network connection means connects to the network via the access point. . The first communication means performs network communication with another game device determined to be capable of network communication by the determination means.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the communication game system is for playing a communication game via a network such as the Internet, for example, and includes a plurality of game devices (10: reference numerals corresponding to embodiments described later; the same applies hereinafter). .)including. In each game device, the first storage means (48, 74) stores its own identification information. In the embodiment, an ID and a player name as identification information are stored. The registration means (42, 48, 28b, 80, S21, S47, S49, S289-S293) registers partner identification information which is identification information of another game device. The opponent identification information is obtained by exchange with another game device or its player, and is stored as friend list data in the embodiment. For exchange, for example, the game device may output its own identification information. The opponent identification information may be obtained, for example, from another game device that has communicated by short-range wireless communication. Alternatively, the opponent identification information acquired by teaching the identification information with the opponent player in advance may be input by the player. In order to teach the opponent player, his / her identification information may be displayed, for example. The network connection means (42, 64, S65) connects to the access point (70) for performing network communication. The access point is, for example, a wireless LAN access point provided at home or in a public wireless LAN, and the game device connects to a network such as the Internet via the access point. The determination means (42, S83, S303) determines whether network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the other party identification information registered by the registration means when connected to the network via the access point. Is determined. For example, when a server (72) for managing connected information indicating a connected game device is provided on the network, the server may be inquired and a determination may be made from the result. The first communication unit (42, 64, S93, S95, S305, S307) performs network communication with another game device determined to be capable of network communication.

  According to the invention of claim 1, the partner identification information can be registered. In addition, the network is accessed via the access point, and it is determined whether or not network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the registered partner identification information. Then, when it is determined that network communication is possible, communication can be performed with the other party via the network. In this way, each game device determines whether or not network communication is possible with a partner whose identification information is registered, and when possible, can perform network communication with the registered partner. Therefore, it is possible to play the communication game only with the partner whose identification information is registered, so that it is possible to safely and casually participate in the network game, and to participate in a general game user who has avoided the network game. An easy-to-play network game can be realized. Further, network communication with the friend can be easily performed only by registering the identification information of the friend.

  The invention according to claim 2 is dependent on the invention according to claim 1, and each game device further includes a second communication unit that communicates with another game device by short-range wireless communication. The registering means stores the opponent identification information received from another game device in the communication by the second communication means in the second storage means.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the second communication means (42, 64, S21, S39, S41, S45, S47) of the game device communicates with another game device by short-range wireless communication. The registration means (S49) stores the opponent identification information received from another game device by short-range wireless communication in the second storage means (48, 28b, 80). In this manner, the identification information of the other party communicating by short-range wireless communication can be acquired and registered. Therefore, it is possible to communicate via a network even after leaving a friend who has communicated by short-range wireless communication.

  The invention according to claim 3 is dependent on the invention according to claim 2, and further includes a server on a network. Each game device further includes a notification unit and an inquiry unit. The notification means transmits a notification including the identification information of the own device and indicating that the device is being connected to the network to the server. The inquiry means transmits to the server an inquiry as to whether or not another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information stored in the second storage means is being connected to the network. The server includes a connected list storage unit, a first detection unit, and a response unit. The connected list storage means stores, in the third storage means, at least the identification information and the address of the game apparatus currently connected to the network based on the notification. The first detecting means detects, when receiving the inquiry, whether or not the received partner identification information is stored in the third storage means. The responding means, when the first detecting means detects that the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, transmits the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information to the game device that transmitted the inquiry I do. The determination means of the game device determines whether or not another game device is currently connected to the network based on the result of the inquiry received from the server. The first communication unit performs network communication with the other game device based on the address received from the server when the determination unit determines that the other game device is connected to the network.

In the invention according to claim 3, the communication game system further includes a server (72) provided on the network, that is, connectable via the network. The notifying means (42, S67, S71, S171) of the game device transmits a notification including its own identification information and indicating that it is being connected to the network to the server. In the embodiment, the notification data includes an ID, a player name, a connection address, a game name, and the like, and is transmitted at regular intervals, for example. The connected list storage unit (S203) of the server is managed based on, for example, the notification, and stores at least the identification information and the address of the game device connected to the network in the third storage unit (84). In the embodiment, connected list data including the ID of the connected game device, the player name, the connection address, the game name, and the like are stored. In this manner, the server manages information on the game devices that are connected to the network. The inquiry device (42, 64, S77, S301) of the game device inquires of the server whether another game device corresponding to the registered identification information is connected to the network. The inquiry target may be all registered partner identification information, or may be, for example, some partner identification information selected by the player. In the embodiment, inquiry data including at least the ID of the inquiry target game device is transmitted. When the first detection means (S207, S209, S323, S325) of the server receives the inquiry, the first detection means determines whether or not the received partner identification information is stored in the third storage means, that is, corresponds to the partner identification information. It detects whether or not the game device to be connected is connected to the network. The response means (S211, S213, S331, S333), when detecting that the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, sends the address of another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information to the inquiry unit. Is transmitted to the game device that has transmitted. In the embodiment, when it is detected that the inquiry target game device is not connected, data indicating that communication is disabled is transmitted. The determining means of the game device determines whether or not another game device corresponding to the registered opponent identification information is connected to the network based on the inquiry result received from the server. That is, it is determined whether network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information registered by short-range wireless communication. When the first communication means (42, 64, S93, S95, S305, S307) determines that another game device corresponding to the registered opponent identification information is connected to the network, the address received from the server is Network communication is performed with the other game device based on. As described above, since the identification information of the game device connected to the network is managed by the server, the server can detect whether or not a partner registered by short-range wireless communication is being connected. Then, when the other party is connected, information (address) for connecting to the other party can be obtained by a response from the server. Therefore, even when a short distance wireless communication is performed and the user is separated from a partner whose identification information is registered, communication can be performed via the network.

  The invention according to claim 4 is dependent on the invention according to claim 1 or 2, and each of the game devices further includes an opponent input unit that acquires opponent identification information input according to a user operation. The registration unit stores the partner identification information acquired by the partner input unit in the second storage unit.

  In the invention of claim 4, the other party input means (S289) acquires the identification information of another game device input by the user or the player. The registration means (S293) stores the input partner identification information in the second storage means (48, 28b, 80). Thus, the identification information of the other party can be registered by manual input. Therefore, it is possible to communicate with a friend who lives far away and cannot meet or a friend who cannot perform short-range wireless communication by teaching the identification information and manually registering the identification information.

The invention according to claim 5 is dependent on the invention according to claim 4, and further includes a server on a network. Each game device further includes a notification unit and a registration partner transmission unit. The notification means transmits a notification including the identification information of the own device and indicating that the device is being connected to the network to the server. The registered partner transmitting unit transmits the partner identification information stored in the second storage unit to the server. The server includes a connected list storage unit, a registration partner storage unit, a second detection unit, and a response unit. The connected list storage means stores, in the third storage means, at least the identification information and the address of the game apparatus currently connected to the network based on the notification. The registered partner storage unit stores the partner identification information received from the game device in the fourth storage unit for each game device. The second detecting means, when receiving the opponent identification information, stores the received opponent identification information in the third storage means, and sets the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information to the opponent identification information. It is detected whether or not it is stored in the fourth storage means as opponent identification information for the corresponding game device. The responding means stores the received opponent identification information in the third storage means by the second detection means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is used for the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When it is detected that the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage means, the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. Based on the data received from the server, the determining means determines that another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information stored in the second storage means is being connected to the network, and that its own identification information is It is determined whether or not the game device is registered as opponent identification information. The first communication means receives the information from the server when the determination means determines that the other game device is connected to the network and that its own identification information is registered as the opponent identification information of the other game device. Network communication is performed with another game device based on the address thus set.

In the invention according to claim 5, the communication game system further includes a server (72) provided on the network, that is, connectable via the network. The notifying means (42, S67, S71, S171) of the game device transmits a notification including its own identification information and indicating that it is being connected to the network to the server. In the embodiment, the notification data includes an ID, a player name, a connection address, a game name, and the like, and is transmitted at regular intervals, for example. The connected list storage unit (S203) of the server is managed based on, for example, the notification, and stores at least the identification information and the address of the game device connected to the network in the third storage unit (84). In the embodiment, connected list data including the ID of the connected game device, the player name, the connection address, the game name, and the like are stored. In this manner, the server manages information on the game devices that are connected to the network. The registered partner transmitting means (42, 64, S77, S301) of the game device transmits registered partner identification information to the server. Inquiry data including all partner identification information stored in the second storage means may be transmitted. The registered partner storage unit (S321) of the server stores the partner identification information received from the game device in the fourth storage unit (84) for each game device. In the embodiment, the received partner identification information is stored as the friend list data for each game device in the connected list data. In this way, the server also stores the friend list data of the game device connected to the network. When the second detecting means (S323-S329) receives the opponent identification information, the received opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is It is detected whether the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage means as the opponent identification information. That is, the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is being connected to the network, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is registered in the friend list data of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. Is detected. The response unit (S331, S333, S337) stores the received opponent identification information in the third storage unit, and sets the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information to the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When it is detected that the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage means, the address of the game device corresponding to the received opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. Further, in the embodiment, when it is detected that the game device corresponding to the received opponent identification information is not connected, or when the transmitted identification information of the game device is determined by the game device corresponding to the received opponent identification information. When it is detected that the game device is not registered as the opponent identification information, data indicating that communication with another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is disabled is transmitted. The determining means (42, S83, S303) of the game device determines that another game device corresponding to the opponent identification information stored in the second storage means is connected to the network based on the data received from the server, Further, it is determined whether or not its own identification information is registered as opponent identification information for another game device. As described above, when the identification information can be manually input, it is required to mutually register the identification information as a condition for performing the network communication. By setting such conditions, it is possible to perform network communication only with friends who have mutually shared identification information. In addition, for example, it is possible to prevent network communication from being performed when one party illegally acquires the identification information of the other party. The first communication means (42, 64, S93, S95, S305, S307) indicates that the registered other game device is being connected to the network, and that the identification information of the other game device is a partner of the other game device. When it is determined that the game device is registered as identification information, network communication is performed with another game device based on the address received from the server. As described above, the identification information of the game devices connected to the network is managed by the server, and the friend list of each game device is stored in the server. Therefore, the server can detect whether or not the partner registered by manual input or short-range wireless communication is connected, and determine whether or not its own identification information is registered as partner identification information for the partner. Can be detected by the server. Then, when network communication with the other party is possible, information (address) for connecting to the other party can be acquired from the server. Therefore, for example, even if it is a distant friend who has registered identification information by manual input, or is separated from a partner who has performed short-range wireless communication, communication can be performed via the network.

  The invention according to claim 6 is dependent on the invention according to claim 4 or 5, wherein each game device further includes first display means for displaying its own identification information.

  According to the invention of claim 6, the first display means (42, 50, 52, 60, 12, 14, S243-S247) of the game device displays its own identification information. The displayed identification information, that is, the identification information to be registered by manual input, may be encrypted identification information. When displaying the encrypted identification information, the registration unit decrypts and registers the acquired identification information. As described above, the user's own identification information is displayed, so that each user can know the identification information of the game device owned by the user and can inform his / her friends.

  The invention according to claim 7 is dependent on any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, among the respective game devices, the first game device is in network communication with the second game device. When a communication connection is established from the third game device, the third game device transmits the opponent identification information corresponding to the second game device, and the second game device transmits the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device. Introducing means for transmitting information is further provided.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the first game device can refer its own communication partners (the second game device and the third game device) by the introduction means (42, S117, S119, S121). it can. As described above, the first game device can provide the identification information of the other party that is not registered as the communication partner of the first game device. You can communicate over the network with friends you haven't done or with friends you don't know yet. Therefore, the range of the communicable partner in the network communication can be expanded.

  The invention according to claim 8 is dependent on any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, among the game devices, the first game device is in network communication with the second game device, When receiving the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device from the second game device, the game device further includes third communication means for performing network communication with the third game device.

  In the invention of claim 8, the first game device is connected to the other game device (third game device) by the third communication means (42, 64, S97, S99, S101, S103) from the communication partner (second game device). Game device) can be obtained, and communication with the introduced other game device can be performed via a network. Therefore, for example, it is possible to communicate with a partner who has not communicated nearby or a friend of a friend who has not yet met, via the network, so that the range of the communicable partner in network communication can be expanded. .

A ninth invention is according to the eighth invention, and the first game device further comprises a registration judging means and an additional registration means. The registration determining means determines whether or not the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device with which the third communication device has performed network communication is stored in the second storage means. The additional registration means additionally stores the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device in the second storage means when the registration determination means determines that the information is to be stored.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the registration judging means (42, S105, S107) of the first game device communicates with the third communication means, that is, the identification information of another game device introduced by the communication partner is stored in the first game device. 2 It is determined whether or not to register in the storage means. In the embodiment, it is determined whether or not the identification information has already been registered in the friend list data. If the identification information has not been registered, it is determined whether or not to be added to the friend list according to the operation of the player, for example. Is determined. The additional registration unit (42, S109) adds the identification information to the friend list data in the second storage unit when it is determined that the registration is to be performed. Therefore, when a communication has been made with a partner who has not yet exchanged identification information by receiving an introduction via a network, the user can select whether or not to register the identification information of the partner in a friend list. Only the identification information of the opponent desired by the player can be registered.

  A tenth aspect of the present invention is dependent on any one of the second to ninth aspects, wherein each game device selects whether to perform network communication by the first communication means or short-range wireless communication by the second communication means. And a communication method selecting means for performing the communication.

  According to the tenth aspect, the communication method selecting means (42, S7-S13, S17, S19) can select between short-range wireless communication and network communication. In the embodiment, the communication method is selected according to the presence or absence of the wireless LAN access point, the presence or absence of the friend list, and the operation of the player. Therefore, communication with a near partner and communication with a far partner can be selectively executed.

  A second invention (an invention of claim 11) is a game device used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network. The game device includes a first storage unit, a registration unit, a network connection unit, a determination unit, and a first communication unit. The first storage means stores its own identification information. The registration unit registers opponent identification information that is identification information of another game device. The network connection unit connects to an access point accessible to a network for performing network communication. The determination means determines whether network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the other party identification information registered by the registration means when the network connection means connects to the network via the access point. . The first communication means performs network communication with another game device determined to be capable of network communication by the determination means.

  An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a game apparatus used in the communication game system as described above, and performs network communication only with friends registered by short-range wireless communication or manual input, as in the first aspect of the present invention. And communicate with the friend introduced by the friend over the network. Therefore, a network game in which anyone can easily participate can be realized.

A third invention (an invention according to claim 12) is a game program for a game device used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network and provided with a first storage means for storing at least its own identification information. It is. The game program causes a processor of the game device to execute a registration step, a network connection step, a determination step, and a first communication step. The registration step registers opponent identification information that is identification information of another game device. The network connection step connects to an access point accessible to a network for performing network communication. The determining step determines whether network communication is possible with another game device corresponding to the other party identification information registered in the registration step when the network connection step connects to the network via the access point. . The first communication step performs network communication with another game device that has been determined to be capable of network communication in the determination step.

  A twelfth aspect of the present invention is a game program for a game device used in the communication game system as described above, and has the same effects as the first and second aspects.

  A fourth invention (an invention of claim 13) is a server used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network. Each game device includes first storage means for storing its own identification information and second storage means for storing opponent identification information that is identification information of another game apparatus. The server includes a connected list storage unit, a registration partner storage unit, a second detection unit, and a response unit. The connected list storage means stores at least the own identification information and the address received from the game device connected to the network in the third storage means. The registered partner storage unit stores the partner identification information received from the game device in the fourth storage unit for each game device. When receiving the opponent identification information, the second detection means stores the opponent identification information in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information corresponds to the opponent identification information. It is detected whether or not it is stored in the fourth storage means as opponent identification information for the game device. The response means stores the opponent identification information in the third storage means by the second detection means, and sets the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information to the opponent identification information of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. Is detected in the fourth storage means, the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information.

In a thirteenth aspect, the server is used in a communication game system in which the plurality of game devices communicate with each other via a network. Each game device stores its own identification information in the first storage means, and stores the opponent identification information in the second storage means, as in the first invention described above. This server is applied when each game device can register opponent identification information by manual input by a player. The connected list storage means (S203) of the server stores at least its own identification information and address received from the game device connected to the network in the third storage means (84). That is, the server manages the identification information of the game device being connected to the network. In the embodiment, connected list data including a connection address, a player name, and the like associated with the identification information of the game device is stored. The registered partner storage unit (S321) stores the partner identification information received from the game device in the fourth storage unit (84) for each game device. That is, the server also stores the friend list of each game device. In the embodiment, the opponent identification information is stored in the connected list data in association with the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. When the second detecting means (S323-S329) receives the opponent identification information, the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is included in the opponent identification information. It is detected whether or not it is stored in the fourth storage means as opponent identification information for the corresponding game device. That is, whether the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is being connected to the network, and the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information has also registered the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. Is detected. The response unit (S331, S333, S337) stores the received opponent identification information in the third storage unit, and sets the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information to the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When it is detected that the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage means, the address of the game device corresponding to the received opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. That is, when it is determined that the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information and the game device that has transmitted the opponent identification information can perform network communication, information for connecting to the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is set as follows. A reply is sent to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. When it is determined that network communication is not possible, data indicating that communication is not possible is returned. As described above, the server manages the identification information of the connected game device, and stores the friend list of each game device. Then, when it is detected that the mutual identification information is registered in each of the game devices, the information for connection is returned. Therefore, network communication can be performed only between game devices that have mutually registered identification information. For this reason, for example, when one party illegally acquires the identification information of the other party and registers it manually, or one party exchanges the other party's identification information legitimately via short-range wireless communication or transmission, but one of the two parties communicates with the other party. Network communication can be prevented from being performed in the case where registration is rejected and registration is not performed. Therefore, communication can be performed via the network only when each of them has registered identification information, so that a network game in which the player can safely and easily participate can be realized.

  A fifth invention (an invention of claim 14) is a communication processing program of a server used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network. Each game device includes first storage means for storing its own identification information and second storage means for storing opponent identification information that is identification information of another game apparatus. The communication processing program causes the processor of the server to execute a connected list storage step, a registered partner storage step, a second detection step, and a response step. In the connected list storing step, at least the own identification information and the address received from the game device connected to the network are stored in the third storage means. In the registered partner storage step, the partner identification information received from the game device is stored in the fourth storage means for each game device. In the second detecting step, when the opponent identification information is received, the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information corresponds to the opponent identification information. It is detected whether or not it is stored in the fourth storage means as opponent identification information for the game device. In the response step, the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage unit by the second detection step, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is determined by the opponent identification for the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When it is detected that the information is stored in the fourth storage means, the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program corresponding to the server according to the fourth aspect of the invention, which has the same effect as the fourth aspect of the invention.

  According to the present invention, identification information of another game device is registered, and when it is determined that network communication is possible with the game device corresponding to the registered identification information, network communication is performed with the other party. I did it. Therefore, since network communication can be performed only with the party whose identification information has been registered, a network game that is easy to participate can be realized.

  When registering by exchanging identification information with a partner who has communicated via short-range wireless communication, connect to a network such as the Internet and then determine that the partner is connected based on the identification information, for example, via a server When it does, it tried to communicate with the other party. Therefore, since it is possible to communicate with the partner who exchanged the identification information via the network, it is possible to play the communication game even if it is located at a place remote from the partner who played the communication game by short-range wireless communication. .

  When the identification information of the other party is registered by manual input, it is determined that communication is possible via the network if the other party also registers its own identification information. Therefore, it is possible to communicate via a network by exchanging and registering identification information with friends and acquaintances who cannot meet directly.

In the network communication, a communication partner is introduced to another communication partner. Therefore, the range of the communicable partner can be expanded, and the circle of friends can be expanded by registering the identification information of the introduced partner.

  In this way, since the network communication partner starts with a familiar person who can communicate over a short distance or an acquaintance who can convey identification information, it gradually spreads to friends of friends, so it is safe and secure for network games You can easily participate. Therefore, it is possible to realize a network game that can be easily participated by a general game user who has avoided the network game.

  The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

1 is an external view showing an example of a game device used in a communication game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the game device of FIG. 1 embodiment. FIG. 2 is an illustrative view showing one example of a communication game system in a case where a communication game by short-range wireless communication is executed using the game device of FIG. 1 embodiment; FIG. 2 is an illustrative view showing one example of a communication game system when executing a communication game by network communication using the game device of the embodiment in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a RAM of the game device; FIG. 4 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a server; FIG. 3 is an illustrative view showing one example of an outline of an Internet communication process; FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the game device. FIG. 9A is an illustrative view showing one example of a communication range selection screen. FIG. 9A shows a screen displayed when a network game can be executed, and FIG. 9B shows a screen displayed when a network game cannot be executed. Screen to be displayed. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in the wireless communication processing in FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a part of an example of an operation in the Internet communication processing in FIG. 8. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a part of the continuation of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a part of the continuation of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a continuation of FIG. 13. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of an access point confirmation process in FIG. 11. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the notification process in FIG. 11. FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing one example of a communication partner selection screen; It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the communication process of a server. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the online confirmation processing of a server. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in a self-ID display mode in a game device according to another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of a self-ID generation mode. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of a player name setting mode. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of a partner ID input mode. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of a communication game mode. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a part of an example of the operation of the Internet communication process in FIG. 24. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a part of the continuation of FIG. 25. FIG. 15 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of a server of another embodiment; FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of a communication process in a server according to another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of operation | movement of a wireless communication process.

Referring to FIG. 1, a game apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first liquid crystal display (LCD) 12 and a second LCD 14. The LCD 12 and the LCD 14 are housed in the housing 16 so as to be located at predetermined positions. In this embodiment, the housing 16
The LCD 12 is housed in the upper housing 16a, and the LCD 14 is housed in the lower housing 16b. Therefore, the LCD 12 and the LCD 14 are arranged close to each other so as to be arranged vertically (up and down).

In this embodiment, an LCD is used as a display, but an EL (Electronic Luminescence) display or a plasma display may be used instead of the LCD.

  As can be seen from FIG. 1, the upper housing 16a has a plane shape slightly larger than the plane shape of the LCD 12, and has an opening formed so as to expose the display surface of the LCD 12 from one main surface. On the other hand, the lower housing 16b has a planar shape selected to be horizontally longer than the upper housing 16a, and has an opening formed at a substantially central portion in the horizontal direction so as to expose the display surface of the LCD 14. The lower housing 16b is provided with a sound release hole 18 and operation switches 20 (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20L, and 20R).

  The lower side (lower end) of the upper housing 16a and a part of the upper side (upper end) of the lower housing 16b are rotatably connected to the upper housing 16a and the lower housing 16b. Therefore, for example, when the game is not played, if the upper housing 16a is turned and folded so that the display surface of the LCD 12 and the display surface of the LCD 14 face each other, the display surface of the LCD 12 and the display surface of the LCD 14 can be obtained. This can prevent damage such as scratching. However, the upper housing 16a and the lower housing 16b may not be rotatably connected, but may form the housing 16 in which they are integrally (fixed).

  The operation switches 20 include a direction indicating switch (cross switch) 20a, a start switch 20b, a select switch 20c, an operation switch (A button) 20d, an operation switch (B button) 20e, an operation switch (L button) 20L, and an operation switch (R Button) 20R. Switches 20a, 20b and 20c are arranged on the left side of LCD 14 on one main surface of lower housing 16b. Switches 20d and 20e are arranged on the right side of LCD 14 on one main surface of lower housing 16b. Furthermore, the switch 20L and the switch 20R are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the upper housing 16b at a portion other than the connection portion with the upper housing 16a so as to sandwich the connection portion.

The direction indicating switch 20a functions as a digital joystick. By operating one of the four pressing portions, it is possible to instruct a player character (or a player object) operable by the player, a moving direction of the cursor, and the like. The start switch 20b is constituted by a push button, and is used for starting (restarting) or temporarily stopping a game. The select switch 20c is constituted by a push button, and is used for selecting a game mode and the like.

The operation switch 20d, that is, the A button is constituted by a push button, and performs any operation other than a direction instruction, that is, any operation (action, such as hitting (punching), throwing, grabbing (acquiring), riding, jumping, cutting, etc., on the player character. ). For example, in an action game, it is possible to instruct jumping, punching, moving a weapon, and the like. In a role playing game (RPG) or a simulation RPG, it is possible to instruct acquisition of an item, selection and determination of a weapon or a command, and the like. The operation switch 20e, that is, the B button is constituted by a push button, and is used for changing the game mode selected by the select switch 20c, canceling the action determined by the A button 20d, and the like.

  The operation switch 20L (L button) and the operation switch 20R (R button) are configured by push buttons, and the L button 20L and the R button 20R can be used for the same operation as the A button 20d and the B button 20e. , A button 20d and B button 20e.

  On the upper surface of the LCD 14, a touch panel 22 is mounted. As the touch panel 22, for example, any one of a resistive type, an optical type (infrared type), and a capacitive coupling type can be used. Further, the touch panel 22 is pressed, stroked, touched, or hit on the upper surface thereof with a stick 24 or a pen (a stylus pen) or a finger (hereinafter, these may be referred to as “sticks 24 or the like”). When operated, the coordinates of the position operated by the stick 24 or the like (that is, touch input) are detected, and the coordinate data corresponding to the detected coordinates (detected coordinates) is output.

  In this embodiment, the resolution of the display surface of the LCD 14 (the same or substantially the same as the LCD 12) is 256 dots × 192 dots, and the detection accuracy (operation surface) of the touch panel 22 is 256 dots × 192 dots corresponding to the display screen. is there. However, in FIG. 1, the touch panel 22 is shown in a different size from the LCD 14 for easy understanding of the touch panel 22, but the size of the display screen of the LCD 14 and the size of the operation surface of the touch panel 22 are the same. . Note that the detection accuracy of the touch panel 22 may be lower or higher than the resolution of the display screen.

  Different game screens can be displayed on the LCD 12 and the LCD 14. For example, in a racing game, a screen from the viewpoint from the driver's seat can be displayed on one LCD, and a screen of the entire race (course) can be displayed on the other LCD. Further, in the RPG, characters such as a map and a player character can be displayed on one LCD, and items owned by the player character can be displayed on the other LCD. Further, one LCD (in this embodiment, LCD 12) displays a game play screen, and the other LCD (in this embodiment, LCD 14) includes images such as character information and icons for operating the game. A game screen (operation screen) can be displayed. Furthermore, by using the two LCDs 12 and 14 as a single screen, a huge monster (enemy character) that must be defeated by the player character can be displayed.

  Therefore, by operating the touch panel 22 with the stick 24 or the like, the player instructs a character image such as a player character, an enemy character, an item character, character information, or an icon displayed on the screen of the LCD 14 or selects a command. can do.

  Depending on the type of the game, it may be used for other input instructions, for example, selection or operation of an icon displayed on the LCD 14, a coordinate input instruction, or the like.

As described above, the game apparatus 10 has the LCD 12 and the LCD 14 serving as a display unit for two screens, and the touch panel 22 is provided on one of the upper surfaces of the LCD (in this embodiment, the LCD 14). 14) and two systems of operation units (20, 22).

  In this embodiment, the stick 24 can be housed in a housing (hole or recess) 26 provided near the side surface (right side surface) of the upper housing 16a, for example, and is taken out as needed. However, when the stick 24 is not provided, the storage section 26 does not need to be provided.

  Further, the game device 10 includes a memory card (or a game cartridge) 28. The memory card 28 is detachable, and is inserted through an insertion port 30 provided on the back surface or bottom surface (lower end) of the lower housing 16b. Although omitted in FIG. 1, a connector 46 (see FIG. 2) for joining with a connector (not shown) provided at the front end of the memory card 28 in the insertion direction is provided at the back of the insertion slot 30. Therefore, when the memory card 28 is inserted into the insertion slot 30, the connectors are joined together, and the CPU core 42 (see FIG. 2) of the game device 10 can access the memory card 28.

  Although not shown in FIG. 1, a speaker 32 (see FIG. 2) is provided inside the lower housing 16b at a position corresponding to the sound hole 18 in the lower housing 16b.

  Although not shown in FIG. 1, for example, a battery housing box is provided on the back side of the lower housing 16b, and a power switch, a volume switch, an external expansion connector, and the like are provided on the bottom side of the lower housing 16b. An earphone jack is also provided.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the game device 10. As shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 2, game device 10 includes an electronic circuit board 40, on which circuit components such as CPU core 42 are mounted. The CPU core 42 is connected to a connector 46 via a bus 44, and has a RAM 48, a first graphic processing unit (GPU) 50, a second GPU 52, an input / output interface circuit (hereinafter, referred to as an "I / F circuit"). .) 54, connected to the LCD controller 60 and the wireless communication unit 64.

  As described above, the memory card 28 is detachably connected to the connector 46. The memory card 28 includes a ROM 28a and a RAM 28b, and although not shown, the ROM 28a and the RAM 28b are connected to each other by a bus, and further connected to a connector (not shown) joined to the connector 46. Therefore, as described above, the CPU core 42 can access the ROM 28a and the RAM 28b.

  The ROM 28a stores a game program for a game (virtual game) to be executed on the game apparatus 10, image (character image, background image, item image, icon (button) image, message image, etc.) data and sound (game) required for the game. Music) data (sound data) and the like are stored in advance. The RAM (backup RAM) 28b stores (saves) the game midway data and the game result data.

  The RAM 48 is used as a buffer memory or a working memory. That is, the CPU core 42 loads the game program, image data, sound data, and the like stored in the ROM 28a of the memory card 28 into the RAM 48, and executes the loaded game program. The CPU core 42 executes the game process while storing data (game data, flag data, and the like) generated or acquired in accordance with the progress of the game in the RAM 48.

The game program, image data, sound data, and the like are read from the ROM 28a all at once or partially and sequentially as necessary, and stored in the RAM 48.

  However, the ROM 28a of the memory card 28 stores a program for an application other than the game, image data necessary for executing the application, and the like. Further, sound (music) data may be stored as needed. In such a case, the game device 10 executes the application.

The GPU 50 and the GPU 52 each form a part of a drawing unit, are configured by, for example, a single-chip ASIC, and have a graphics command (graphics) from the CPU core 42.
command: a drawing command), and generates game image data according to the graphics command. However, the CPU core 42 gives an image generation program (included in the game program) necessary for generating game image data to each of the GPU 50 and the GPU 52 in addition to the graphics command.

  Further, a first video RAM (hereinafter, referred to as “VRAM”) 56 is connected to the GPU 50, and a second VRAM 58 is connected to the GPU 52. The data (image data: data such as character data and texture) necessary for the GPU 50 and the GPU 52 to execute the drawing command are obtained by the GPU 50 and the GPU 52 accessing the first VRAM 56 and the second VRAM 58, respectively. However, the CPU core 42 reads image data necessary for drawing from the RAM 48 and writes the image data into the first VRAM 56 and the second VRAM 58 via the GPU 50 and the GPU 52. The GPU 50 accesses the VRAM 56 to create game image data for display, and stores the image data in the drawing buffer of the VRAM 56. The GPU 52 accesses the VRAM 58 to create game image data for drawing, and stores the image data in the drawing buffer of the VRAM 58. A frame buffer, a line buffer, or the like may be employed as the drawing buffer.

  VRAM 56 and VRAM 58 are connected to LCD controller 60. The LCD controller 60 includes a register 62. The register 62 is formed of, for example, one bit, and stores a value (data value) of “0” or “1” according to an instruction from the CPU core 42. When the data value of the register 62 is “0”, the LCD controller 60 outputs the game image data created by the GPU 50 to the LCD 12, and outputs the game image data created by the GPU 52 to the LCD 14. On the other hand, when the data value of the register 62 is “1”, the LCD controller 60 outputs the game image data created by the GPU 50 to the LCD 14, and outputs the game image data created by the GPU 52 to the LCD 12.

  The LCD controller 60 can read image data directly from the VRAM 56 and the VRAM 58, or can read image data from the VRAM 56 and the VRAM 58 via the GPU 50 and the GPU 52.

  Further, the VRAM 56 and the VRAM 58 may be provided in the RAM 48, or the drawing buffer and the Z buffer thereof may be provided in the RAM 48.

The operation switch 20, the touch panel 22, and the speaker 32 are connected to the I / F circuit 54. Here, the operation switches 20 are the switches 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20L, and 20R described above. When the operation switch 20 is operated, the corresponding operation signal (operation data) is transmitted to the I / F circuit 54. Via the CPU core 42. Operation data (coordinate data) output from the touch panel 22 is input to the CPU core 42 via the I / F circuit 54. Further, the CPU core 42 reads from the RAM 48 sound data necessary for the game, such as game music (BGM), sound effects, or the sound of the game character (simulated sound), and outputs the sound data from the speaker 32 via the I / F circuit 54. Is output.

The wireless communication unit 64 is a communication unit for wirelessly transmitting and receiving data to and from another game apparatus 10 or communication device. The wireless communication unit 64 modulates communication data to the other party into a radio signal and transmits it from the antenna, and receives the radio signal from the other party using the same antenna and demodulates the data into communication data. The game device 10 executes a communication game by communicating data with another game device 10 via the wireless communication unit 64. The wireless communication unit 64 is compliant with, for example, IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), and is capable of communicating data with another game apparatus 10 and communication devices via a wireless LAN. The game device 10 may execute a communication game with another nearby game device 10 via a wireless LAN, for example. The game device 10 can also communicate data with other computers, servers, the game device 10, and the like via the Internet using the TCP / IP protocol. Therefore, the game apparatus 10 accesses an Internet service provider (ISP) from a wireless LAN access point such as a home LAN or a public wireless LAN, and connects to the Internet or a network such as a WAN (Wide Area Network) via the ISP. A communication game can be executed with another game apparatus 10 connected to the Internet at a remote place.

In this embodiment, the case where the wireless communication unit 64 operates according to the wireless LAN standard will be described. However, in another embodiment, the wireless communication unit 64 may follow another wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth.

  The wireless communication unit 64 can also execute wireless communication based on, for example, a time division multiple access system. A communication game with another nearby game device 10 may be executed by this wireless communication method. For example, each game device 10 is assigned a time slot during one communication cycle, and transmits its own data in the assigned slot. It should be noted that such a wireless communication technique is disclosed in detail in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 2004-135778 and 2004-13609 by the applicant of the present invention, so reference is made thereto.

  The communication game system of this embodiment is configured by using a plurality of the game apparatuses 10 as described above. In this communication game system, a communication game is played between a plurality of game devices 10 at a short distance as shown in FIG. 3 or at a long distance as shown in FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 3, when a plurality of game devices 10 exist near each other, a communication game is executed between the plurality of game devices 10 by short-range wireless communication. For example, one of the plurality of game devices 10 is a master device, and the other is a slave device, and data is communicated between the master device and the slave device. Each player selects, for example, on a selection screen whether the own device becomes the master device or the slave device. When functioning as a base unit, the game device 10 searches for and connects to a slave unit existing within the communicable range, and searches for a joinable base unit existing within the communicable range when functioning as a slave unit. Connecting.

  When the short distance communication game is executed, the identification information of the game devices 10 is exchanged among the plurality of game devices 10 automatically or in accordance with the selection operation of each player. That is, each game device 10 can acquire the identification information of the other game device 10 that has participated in the communication game by the communication game at a short distance. For example, since it is assumed that a communication game in such a short distance range is played between friends, each player gathers with friends to play a communication game, and the game device owned by the friend is played. Ten pieces of identification information can be obtained. The acquired identification information of the other game device 10 is stored as friend list data.

  The identification information that can be obtained by the short distance communication game is identification information for communication at a long distance. Therefore, the player who has acquired the identification information of the opponent by playing the short distance communication game can play the communication game by communication via the Internet or the like, for example, even if the player is away from the other party.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the communication game at a long distance is executed between a plurality of game apparatuses 10 via a network such as the Internet. For example, each game device 10 accesses the Internet via each access point 70 such as a wireless LAN access point. In this embodiment, the communication game system includes a server 72 on the Internet, and this server 72 functions as a matching server for each game device 10. The server 72 is a computer, includes a CPU, a memory, a communication device for network communication, and the like, and operates according to a program stored in the memory.

  For example, the game apparatus 10 connects to the server 72 via the access point 70, and transmits notification data including its own identification information and indicating that the game apparatus 10 is online (connected or communicating) to the server 72. By receiving the notification data, the server 72 recognizes that the game apparatus 10 corresponding to the identification information is being connected. The server 72 stores the received identification information as connected list data. The transmission of the notification data by the game device 10 is performed, for example, at regular intervals, and the server 72 can recognize that the game device 10 is no longer in communication based on the reception of the notification data. To update.

  Then, the game device 10 transmits the inquiry data including the identification information of the friend list to the server 72, and inquires whether another game device 10 corresponding to the identification information is connected to the server 72. The server 72 detects whether or not the identification information of the inquiry is on the connected list, and if it is determined that the connection is being made, returns the connection address of the game device 10 to the inquiring game device 10. Therefore, when the game device 10 receives the inquiry result data indicating that the opponent's game device 10 is connected, the game device 10 of the opponent's game device 10 is determined based on the connection address of the opponent obtained from the received data. To play a communication game.

  FIG. 5 shows an example of a memory map of the RAM 48 of the game device 10. The RAM 48 includes a self-identification data storage area 74, a server address storage area 76, a game data storage area 78, a friend list storage area 80, a communication partner information storage area 82, and the like. Note that FIG. 5 shows only a part of the memory map, and the RAM 48 stores various data necessary for the progress of the game.

  The self-identification data storage area 74 stores information such as a self-ID, a connection address, and a player name. The ID is identification information of the game device 10 in the communication game. This ID may be stored in advance in, for example, the ROM 28a of the memory card 28, the nonvolatile memory included in the RAM 48 of the game device 10, or the like. However, in this embodiment, in order to enable the change when the owner of the memory card 28 or the owner of the game device 10 changes, the ID is set to, for example, the memory card 28 for this communication game. Is generated when the player name is set as an initial setting. Alternatively, the ID may be generated when the owner name of the game device 10 is set or the like, and may be stored in the nonvolatile memory of the RAM 48 or the like. The method of setting this ID is arbitrary, but the ID must be set to a unique value or number. As an example, the ID may be generated by adding time information when the ID is generated to the MAC address of the wireless communication unit 64 that also functions as an Ethernet (registered trademark) device of the game apparatus 10. The time information may be obtained from a clock IC (not shown) connected to the CPU core 42, for example.

The connection address is an IP address used when the game device 10 connects to the Internet. This connection address is included in the transmission data as the source IP address. The connection address is a private IP address in this embodiment. For example, the connection address is the DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration) of the wireless LAN access point 70.
Protocol) assigned by the server function, acquired by the DHCP client function of the wireless communication unit 64, and stored in the RAM 48. Alternatively, the connection address may be manually set by the player in the game device 10. When the ISP contracted by the player or the ISP to which the access point 70 of the public wireless LAN is connected allocates a private IP address by DHCP or the like, the source IP address of the transmission data is the global IP address at the gateway of the ISP. Is converted to On the other hand, when an ISP contracted by the player or an ISP connected to the access point 70 of the public wireless LAN allocates a global IP address by DHCP or PPPoE or distributes a fixed global IP address, The LAN access point 70 converts the transmission source IP address of the transmission data from the private address to the global address using the NAPT (Network Address Port Translation) or the IP masquerade function, and also converts the port number.

  Further, the player name is input by an operation of the player in the initial setting, for example. In the communication game, by receiving the transmission data including the player name data, the game device 10 can display the name of the opponent player.

  The server IP storage area 76 stores a global IP address and a port number of the server 72 or a computer that manages the server 72. The server address may be stored in the ROM 28a of the memory card 28 in advance, or may be input by a player's operation. When transmitting data to the server 72, this server address is included in the transmission data as a destination IP address.

  The game data storage area 78 stores a game program for executing a communication game, image data for generating a game screen, sound data for outputting sound, and the like.

  In the friend list storage area 80, friend list data including identification information of an opponent who has played a communication game with the player is stored. The friend list data includes the ID of the opponent's game device 10, the information of the opponent's player name, and the like. The friend list data is generated in response to a player's selection operation or automatically when a communication game is played by short-range wireless communication. Further, identification information of a partner (ie, a friend of a friend) who has been referred to by a friend through Internet communication may be added to the friend list data in response to a player's selection operation or automatically. The generated or updated friend list data is stored in the RAM 28b which is a nonvolatile memory of the memory card 28. If the friend list data is stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28 at the start of the communication game or the like, the data is read out and stored in the friend list storage area 80.

The communication partner information storage area 82 stores information of a communication partner who plays a communication game through Internet communication or network communication or is in a state of communicating. The communication partner information includes an ID of the partner game device 10, a connection address, a player name, and the like. The connection address is a global IP address of the game device 10 of the communication partner. The connection address of the communication partner already registered in the friend list is acquired from the server 72 in response to the inquiry and stored. When a friend is introduced by a communication partner through Internet communication, information on the friend is acquired from the game device 10 of the communication partner and stored. When transmitting data to a communication partner in an Internet communication game, this connection address is set as a destination IP address. Since the destination IP address of the transmission data is converted into a private IP address or the like of the corresponding game device 10 at the ISP or the wireless LAN access point 70 or the like, the transmission data is delivered to the communication partner game device 10.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of a memory map of the memory of the server 72. The memory of the server 72 includes a connected list storage area 84 and the like. Note that FIG. 6 shows only a part of the memory map of the server 72, and necessary various data is generated or obtained and stored in the memory.

  As the connected list data, information on the game device 10 connected to the Internet is stored. Specifically, the ID, connection address, player name, and the like of the connected game device 10 are stored. When connected to the Internet, each game device 10 periodically transmits notification data indicating that it is being connected to the server 72. The notification data includes the ID of the game device, the player name, and the connection address. The server 72 generates or updates the connected list data when receiving the notification data. The server 72 may be provided for managing one communication game. However, when the server 72 manages a plurality of types of games, the information of each connected game device 10 is stored in association with the game name (game identification information) as shown in FIG.

  In this communication game system, as described above, the identification information of the opponent game device 10 that has executed the communication game together by short-range wireless communication is stored as a friend list. Thereafter, when the game device 10 connects to the Internet and inquires of the server 72, if the game device 10 of the other party registered in the friend list is connected to the Internet, the game device 10 The communication game can be executed with the game apparatus 10 via the Internet by acquiring the connection address. Further, in this embodiment, when friends registered in a friend list of a certain game device 10 are not friends, both are introduced. That is, when the game device 10 that is a friend of the friend who played the communication game is connected to the Internet, the game device 10 can acquire information on the friend's game device 10 from the friend. Then, the introduced friends can execute the communication game, and the identification information of the other party can be registered in the friend list data. Therefore, in this communication game system, a network game can be executed while expanding the circle of friends of the players.

  For example, FIG. 7 shows an outline of the Internet communication game. In FIG. 7, the game device B (player name: “Hiroshi”) and the game device C (player name: “Mika”) are registered in each other's friend list data, and are friends. The game device A (player name: “Jiro”) and the game device B are also friends registered in each other's friend list. However, game device A and game device C are not friends. FIG. 7 shows a case where game device B and game device C are communicating via the Internet. In this case, when the game device A connects to the Internet and receives an inquiry result indicating that the game device B is being connected from the server 72, the game device A transmits a connection request to the game device B, It is possible to execute a communication game by connecting with the device B. On the other hand, since the game device B is also in communication with the game device C, the game device A and the game device C are drawn after, for example, executing a communication game with the game device A. That is, the game device B transmits information including the connection address of the game device C to the game device A, and transmits information including the connection address of the game device A to the game device C. Therefore, when game device A and game device C receive an introduction from game device B, they can communicate with each other and execute a communication game.

The operation when executing a communication game in this communication game system will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIG. 8 shows an example of a game operation of the game apparatus 10. When the game process is disclosed, in the first step S1 of FIG. 8, the CPU core 42 executes a player name setting based on operation input data from the operation switch 20, input data from the touch panel 22, and the like. The setting of the player name is performed when the communication game is played first or when the player name is changed. The CPU core 42 stores the generated player name data in the self-identification data storage area 74. If the player name has already been set and stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28, the CPU core 42 first reads out the player name data from the RAM 28b and stores it in the RAM 48.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU core 42 executes an ID generation process. For example, CPU core 42 generates an ID of game device 10 based on the MAC address of wireless communication unit 64, time information of the clock IC, and the like, and stores the ID data in self-identification data storage area 74. The generation of the ID is executed when the player name is set first or when the player name is changed. If the ID has already been generated and stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28, the CPU core 42 first reads out the ID data from the RAM 28b and stores it in the RAM 48.

  Subsequently, in step S5, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to start the communication game based on, for example, operation input data from the operation switch 20 or touch input data from the touch panel 22. If "NO" in the step S5, that is, if, for example, the input data for instructing the start of the game is not detected even after the lapse of a predetermined time, the game process ends.

  If “YES” in the step S5, that is, if the input data instructing the start of the game is detected, the CPU core 42 determines the wireless communication based on the data acquired from the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S7. It is determined whether the wireless LAN access point 70 exists in the communicable range. For example, when detecting a radio wave emitted by the wireless LAN access point 70, the wireless communication unit 64 gives data indicating its existence to the CPU core 42.

  If “YES” in the step S7, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the friend list data is stored in the RAM 48 in a step S9. If “YES” in the step S9, the CPU core 42 displays a communication range selection screen on the LCD 12 or 14 in which a friend of both the near and far sides can be selected using the GPU 50 or 52 and an LCD controller or the like in a step S11. In this communication range selection screen, as shown in FIG. 9A, both “close friends” and “distant friends” are displayed so as to be selectable. By making a selection, either one can be selected. "Friends near" correspond to a communication game by short-range wireless communication, and "friends far away" correspond to a network communication game via the Internet. This selection screen allows the player to select whether to communicate with a nearby person or a distant person.

  Subsequently, in step S13, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the option “friend far away” is selected based on input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 or the like. If "YES" in the step S13, the CPU core 42 executes an Internet communication process in a step S15. By this processing, a communication game via the Internet is executed. The operation of the Internet communication process is shown in FIGS. 11 to 14 described later.

On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S7, that is, if the wireless LAN access point 70 is not detected, the process proceeds to a step S17. Also, in step S9, "NO
", That is, if the friend list data has not been generated yet, the process proceeds to step S17.

  In step S17, the CPU core 42 displays a communication range selection screen in which only nearby friends can be selected. On this communication range selection screen, as shown in FIG. 9 (B), only "friends near" are displayed as selectable, and "friends far away" are in an unselectable state (for example, light color or inverted color). State or the like) or may not be displayed. When the wireless LAN access point 70 is not detected, the game device 10 cannot connect to the Internet and cannot execute the Internet communication, so that the network game is excluded from the options of the communication game. Also, even when the friend list is not stored yet, since there is no other party to execute the communication game via the Internet, the network game is similarly excluded from the options on the selection screen.

  If “NO” is determined in the step S13, or if the step S17 is ended, the CPU core 42 determines an option “a nearby friend” in a step S19 based on input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 or the like. It is determined whether or not has been selected. If "NO" in the step S19, the process returns to the step S7.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S19, the CPU core 42 executes a wireless communication process in a step S21. By this processing, a communication game by short-range wireless communication is executed. The operation of this wireless communication processing is shown in FIG. 10 described later. When step S15 or step S21 ends, the game process ends.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the operation of the wireless communication process in step S21 of FIG. First, in step S31, the CPU core 42 searches for another game device 10 existing in the wireless communication range. For example, using the wireless communication unit 64, the CPU core 42 broadcasts predetermined data and attempts to receive predetermined data transmitted from another game device 10.

  Next, in step S33, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not another game device 10 has been found as a result of the search, based on the data acquired from the wireless communication unit 64. If “YES” in the step S33, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to connect to the discovered game device 10 in a step S35 based on, for example, input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22. Note that it may be determined whether or not to automatically connect without depending on an instruction to the player.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S33, that is, if data from another game apparatus 10 is not detected, the process proceeds to a step S37. If “NO” in the step S35, that is, if, for example, the input data instructing the connection to the game device 10 that has been found is not detected, the process proceeds to a step S37. In step S37, the CPU core 42 determines whether to continue the search based on, for example, input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22. Note that whether to continue the search may be automatically determined by detecting elapse of a predetermined time, for example, without depending on an instruction from the player. If “NO” in the step S37, that is, if, for example, the input data instructing the stop of the search is detected, the wireless communication process ends. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S37, the process returns to the step S31.

  If “YES” in the step S35, that is, if, for example, input data instructing connection is detected, the CPU core 42 transmits the other game via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S39. A connection process with the device 10 is executed to establish a connection.

  Subsequently, in step S41, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process via the wireless communication unit 64. As a result, a game or application is executed while transmitting / receiving data to / from another connected game apparatus 10.

  Then, in a step S43, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to exchange IDs. For example, it is determined based on input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 whether or not replacement has been instructed. Note that it may be determined whether or not the replacement is automatically performed without depending on the instruction of the player.

  If “YES” in the step S43, the CPU core 42 transmits the data including the own ID and the player name stored in the self-identification data storage area 74 via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S45. To the game device 10. When a communication game is executed with a plurality of other game devices 10, the identification information of the game device 10 is transmitted to the plurality of game devices 10.

  In step S47, the CPU core 42 receives the data including the ID and the player name transmitted from the other game device 10 via the wireless communication unit 64 and stores the data in the RAM 48. When a communication game is executed with a plurality of other game devices 10, the identification information of the plurality of game devices 10 is received.

  Then, in step S49, the CPU core 42 extracts an ID and a player name from the received data, and additionally stores the ID and the player name in the friend list storage area 80 in association with each other. In the case where the information has already been registered in the friend list data, the identification information is not added.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S43, the process proceeds to the step S51 without exchanging the ID. In step S51, it is determined whether to end the communication game based on, for example, input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22. If “NO” in the step S51, the process returns to the step S41. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S51, the wireless communication process ends. Although illustration is omitted, if a new ID or the like is added to the friend list in step S49, the CPU core 42 transmits the friend list data to another The game data to be saved is stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of the operation of the Internet communication process in step S15 in FIG. In the first step S61 in FIG. 11, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the wireless LAN access point 70 exists within the wireless communication range, as in step S7 in FIG. If "NO" in the step S61, the Internet cannot be accessed, so in a step S63, the CPU core 42 executes an error display process and displays an error message such as "no access point" on the LCD 12 or the LCD 14. Then, the Internet communication processing ends.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S61, the CPU core 42 executes a connection process to the wireless LAN access point 70 via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S65, and establishes a connection with the wireless LAN access point 70. Establish. For example, through this process, game device 10 acquires a connection address (private IP address) from wireless LAN access point 70 and stores it in self-identification data storage area 74.

Subsequently, in step S67, the CPU core 42 transmits the connection information data including the information such as the self ID, the connection address, and the player name stored in the self-identification data storage area 74 to the server via the wireless communication unit 64. 72. The server address stored in the server address storage area 76 is set as the destination IP address of the transmission data, and the connection address of the self-identification data storage area 74 is set as the transmission source IP address. Since the connection address is converted into a global IP address by, for example, the wireless LAN access point 70 or the ISP or the like, the server 72 can store the global IP address of the game device 10 in the memory as the connection address, Can be sent.

  Then, in a step S69, the CPU core 42 starts an access point confirmation process. Through this processing, it is always checked whether or not the wireless LAN access point 70 exists in the communicable range of the game apparatus 10. The CPU core 42 executes the access point confirmation processing in parallel with other processing. An example of the operation of the access point confirmation processing is shown in FIG.

  In step S151 of FIG. 15, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the wireless LAN access point 70 exists within the wireless communication range, as in step S7 of FIG. If “YES” in the step S151, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in a step S153. If "NO" in the step S153, the elapse of a predetermined time is waited, and if "YES", the process returns to the step S151.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S151, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not a timeout has occurred in a step S155. For example, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the wireless LAN access point 70 could not be detected. If “NO” in the step S155, the process returns to the step S151. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S155, the CPU core 42 stores necessary game data in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28 in a step S157. In step S159, the CPU core 42 displays an error and ends the access point confirmation processing and the Internet communication processing in the same manner as in step S63 of FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 11, in step S71, the CPU core 42 starts a notification process. Through this processing, the server 72 is constantly notified that the game device 10 is being connected. The CPU core 42 executes the notification processing in parallel with other processing. FIG. 16 shows an example of the operation of the notification process.

  In step S171 of FIG. 16, the CPU core 42 transmits, to the server 72 via the wireless communication unit 64, notification data indicating that communication or connection is being performed. Since the notification data includes the identification information of the game device 10, the server 72 can recognize whether or not the game device 10 is connected by receiving the notification data. Subsequently, in step S173, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not a certain time has elapsed. If “NO” in the step S173, the elapse of a predetermined time is waited, and if “YES”, the process returns to the step S171. Note that when the CPU core 42 ends the Internet communication processing, this notification processing also ends.

  Returning to FIG. 11, in step S73, the CPU core 42 uses the GPU 50 or 52 and the LCD controller 60 or the like to display the name of the player registered in the list on the LCD 12 or 14 based on the friend list data. indicate.

Subsequently, in step S75, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not an opponent of the communication game has been selected from the displayed friend list based on the input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 and the display position data of the player name. Judge. The opponents may be selected, for example, randomly or sequentially without depending on the intention of the player. Alternatively, a plurality of partners may be selected from the friend list to make an inquiry collectively, or all the partners in the list may be selected to make an inquiry collectively.

  If “YES” in the step S75, the CPU core 42 transmits the inquiry data including the ID of the selected partner to the server 72 via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S77. As described above, an arbitrary partner can be selected from the friend list, and an inquiry can be made about the selected partner.

  If “NO” is determined in the step S75, or if the step S77 is ended, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the result of the inquiry is received from the server 72 via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S79. If “YES” in the step S79, the CPU core 42 stores the received data in the RAM 48 in a step S81. When the game device 10 that has inquired of the server 72 is connected, the received data includes the connection address of the game device 10, and when not connected, the received data does not include the connection address. In a succeeding step S83, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the connection address of the selected partner has been acquired. If “NO”, the process proceeds to a step S85 in FIG. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S83, that is, if the selected partner is being connected, the process proceeds to a step S89 in FIG.

  In step S85 in FIG. 12, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the communication game has been canceled based on input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 or the like. If “YES” in the step S85, that is, if, for example, input data instructing cancellation is detected, the CPU core 42 executes a process of canceling the communication game in a step S87, and executes the Internet communication. The process ends. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S85, the process proceeds to a step S91.

  In step S89 in FIG. 12, the CPU core 42 displays the name of the other player on the communication partner selection screen. An example of this screen is shown in FIG. 17, in which a player name corresponding to the game device 10 connected to the Internet is displayed as a communicable friend. The player operates the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 to designate and determine a player name with a cursor, and thereby can select a partner to execute the communication game on this screen.

  Subsequently, in step S91, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not a communication partner has been selected on the screen of FIG. 17 based on input data from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 and display position data of the player name and the like. . If “NO” in the step S91, that is, if, for example, no communication partner is selected on the communication partner selection screen, the process proceeds to a step S97.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S91, the CPU core 42 executes a connecting process to the selected communication partner (referred to as a game device x for convenience) in a step S93. The CPU core 42 stores the identification information of the selected communication partner, that is, the ID, the player name, the connection address, and the like in the communication partner information storage area 82. For example, the CPU core 42 transmits, via the wireless communication unit 64, a connection request with the connection address of the game device x stored in the communication partner information storage area 82 as the destination IP address. Is received, the game device x is connected.

Then, in step S95, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process with the game device x via the wireless communication unit 64. Thus, a game or an application (including a chat or the like) is executed while transmitting and receiving data to and from a connected communication partner.

  In a succeeding step S97, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not information of another game apparatus (referred to as a game apparatus y for convenience) received from the communication partner stored in the communication partner information storage area 82. I do. In this embodiment, when there is a game device y in a communication state with the communication partner, the communication partner acts as an intermediary and introduces the game device y. Sent from In the example of FIG. 7, this corresponds to a case where information on the game device A is transmitted from the game device B to the game device C.

  If “NO” in the step S97, that is, if there is no other game device y communicating with the communication partner, the process proceeds to the step S111 in FIG. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S97, the CPU core 42 stores the received information on the game device y in the RAM 48 in a step S99. Since the received data includes identification information such as the ID of the game device y, the player name, and the connection address, the CPU core 42 stores (adds) the identification information of the game device y in the communication partner information storage area 82. I do. In a succeeding step S101, the CPU core 42 executes a process of connecting to the game device y and connects to the game device y in the same manner as in step S93. Then, in step S103, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process with the game device y in the same manner as in step S95. As described above, in the network communication game, the range of the communicable partner can be widened, and therefore, the communication game can be performed via the Internet with the partner who has not exchanged identification information by short-range wireless communication. . When step S103 ends, the process proceeds to step S105 in FIG.

  In step S105 of FIG. 13, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the information of the game device y is registered in the friend list data. If “NO” in the step S105, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to register the information of the game device y in the friend list in a step S107. For example, it is determined whether or not input data instructing registration is detected from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22. In this case, the player can register only the identification information of the desired partner in the friend list. It should be noted that it is also possible to determine that the user is to be automatically registered in the friend list when the user is not registered, without depending on the intention of the player.

  If “YES” in the step S107, the CPU core 42 adds the information of the game device y, that is, the ID and the player name to the friend list storage area 80 in a step S109. In this manner, the information of the game device y that has been introduced by the friend can be added to the friend list as new friend information. When step S109 ends, the process proceeds to step S111. In order to further receive the introduction from the game device y to which the introduction has been made, the process may return to step S97 in FIG. 12 after step S109. If “YES” in the step S105, or “NO” in the step S107, the process proceeds to the step S111.

  In step S111, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not a connection request has been received from another game device (referred to as a game device z for convenience) via the wireless communication unit 64. The connection request is data transmitted in the process of connecting to the game device 10 in steps S93, S101, and the like. In the example of FIG. 7, this corresponds to, for example, a case where the game device A transmits a connection request to the game device C.

If “YES” in the step S111, the CPU core 42 executes a connection process to the game device z in a step S113 to connect to the game device z. Since the data received as the connection request includes information such as the ID of the game device z, the player name, and the connection address, the CPU core 42 stores the ID, the player name, and the connection address in the communication partner information storage area 82. Remember (add). Therefore, by transmitting data using the connection address as the destination IP address, CPU core 42 can transmit a connection response to game device z, for example. Then, in a step S115, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process with the game apparatus z in the same manner as in the step S95 of FIG.

  Subsequently, in step S117, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not there is another communication partner (referred to as a game device w for convenience) based on the data in the communication partner information storage area 82. I do. That is, it is determined whether there is a game device w in communication to be introduced to the game device z. If “YES” in the step S117, the CPU core 42 reads the information (ID, player name, connection address, and the like) of the game device w from the communication partner information storage area 82 in a step S119, and The game device z is transmitted to the game device z. Also, in step S121, the CPU core 42 reads information (ID, player name, connection address, and the like) of the game device z from the communication partner information storage area 82 and transmits the information to the game device w via the wireless communication unit 64. . In this manner, the game device z and the game device w can be mediated.

  If “NO” in the step S111, “NO” in the step S117, or if step S121 is ended, the process proceeds to step S123 in FIG.

  In step S123 in FIG. 14, the CPU core 42 determines whether to end the communication game. For example, it is determined whether or not input data instructing termination is detected from the operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22. If “YES” in the step S123, the CPU core 42 sends an end notification including its own ID or the like to the other party stored in the communication partner information storage area 82 via the wireless communication unit 64 in a step S125. Send. Then, in step S127, the CPU core 42 executes a communication termination process with the other party, and terminates the Internet communication process.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S123, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not an end notification is received in a step S129. If “YES” in the step S129, the CPU core 42 executes a process of terminating the received communication with the partner in a step S131. For example, the ID of the communication partner is extracted from the end notification, and the data of the communication partner corresponding to the ID or the like is deleted from the communication partner information storage area 82. If step S131 is completed, or if “NO” in step S129, the process returns to step S75 in FIG. 11 to continue the communication game via the network.

  In this embodiment, the server 72 performs functions such as managing a connected list and responding to an inquiry. Specifically, when the game device 10 connects to the Internet, the identification information of the game device 10 is registered in the connected list. Also, when an inquiry is made as to whether or not the game device 10 in the friend list is connected, it is detected whether or not the inquired game device 10 is connected and the result is returned. Further, the connected list is updated based on a notification periodically transmitted from the connected game device 10.

  FIG. 18 illustrates an example of the operation of the communication processing of the server 72. This communication process is repeatedly executed at regular intervals. In the first step S201 of FIG. 18, the CPU (not shown) of the server 72 determines whether or not connection information has been received from the game device 10. This connection information is transmitted from the game device 10 connected to the Internet in step S67 of FIG.

If “YES” in the step S201, the CPU of the server 72 registers the game device in the connected list. Specifically, the ID, the connection address, and the player name are stored (added) in the connected list storage area 84 of the memory. When the server 72 manages a plurality of types of games, the server 72 receives connection information including a game name, and creates and manages connected list data for each game.

  After ending step S203 or if “NO” in step S201, the CPU of server 72 determines whether or not an inquiry has been received from game device 10 in step S205. This inquiry is transmitted in step S77 of FIG. If “YES” in the step S205, the CPU of the server 72 compares the ID and the like included in the inquiry data with the ID and the like registered in the connected list in the connected list storage area 84 in a step S207. .

  Then, in step S209, the CPU of server 72 determines whether or not the inquiry ID is registered in the list. If “YES” in the step S209, that is, if the inquired game apparatus 10 is communicating, the CPU of the server 72 determines in a step S211 the connection address corresponding to the inquiry ID in the connected list storage area. Inquiry result data including the connection address and the like are read from the game device 10 and transmitted to the game device 10 that has transmitted the inquiry.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S209, the CPU of the server 72 transmits the inquiry result data indicating that the communication with respect to the inquiry ID is not possible in the step S213 to the game apparatus 10 which transmitted the inquiry. Step S211 or step S213 ends, or if "NO" in step S205, this notification process ends.

  FIG. 19 shows an example of the operation of the online confirmation processing of the server 72. This online confirmation processing is repeatedly executed at regular intervals. In the first step S221 in FIG. 19, the CPU of the server 72 determines whether or not notification data indicating that communication is in progress has been received from the game device 10. The notification from the game device 10 is transmitted in step S171 in FIG.

  If “YES” in the step S221, the CPU of the server 72 acquires a notification reception time of the game device 10 from, for example, output data of a clock IC (not shown) in a step S223 and stores it in the memory.

  After ending step S223, or if “NO” in step S221, the CPU of the server 72 determines from the clock IC whether or not there is a game device that has passed a predetermined time after receiving the notification in step S225. The determination is made based on the acquired current time and the last reception time stored in the memory. If “YES” in the step S225, the CPU of the server 72 deletes the information of the game device 10 from the connected list storage area 84 and updates the connected list data in a step S227. If the step S227 is ended, or if “NO” in the step S225, this online confirmation processing is ended.

According to this embodiment, identification information is exchanged with a partner who has transmitted / received data by short-range wireless communication, and the identification information of the partner can be registered. Thereafter, if they are located apart from each other, they access a network such as the Internet and detect whether or not the other party is connected based on the identification information via the server 72, for example. If it is in the middle, the connection address of the other party is acquired, and data can be transmitted and received with the other party. In this way, each game device determines whether or not network communication is possible with a partner whose identification information is registered, and when possible, can perform network communication with the registered partner. Therefore, since network communication can be performed only with the registered partner by exchanging identification information, it is possible to safely and casually participate in a network game, thereby realizing a network game that is easy for general game users to participate in. it can. In addition, even if it is determined that the player is located away from the opponent who played the communication game by short-range wireless communication, the user can play the communication game via the network. Further, network communication with the friend can be easily performed only by acquiring and registering the identification information of the friend through the short-range wireless communication.

  Also, in network communication, when another communication partner is present as a communication partner, identification information of the other communication partner can be obtained by introduction, so that communication with a previously unknown partner can be performed. It can be carried out. Therefore, it is possible to expand the range of the communicable partner by the network communication. In addition, since the identification information of the introduced partner can be registered in the friend list, the circle of friends can be expanded by the network communication game.

  Therefore, according to this communication game system, it is possible to acquire and save the identification information of a friend only by local communication with a nearby friend, and thereafter, even if the user is at a remote place regardless of the distance, You can play communication games with your friends. In addition, if network communication is performed, the circle of friends spreads one after another with the introduction of friends, so that it is possible to have the player enjoy the network game even if there are few friends at first. In addition, it is safe because the circle gradually expands from familiar people. In addition, when the wireless LAN function is installed as in the above-described embodiment, since the public wireless LAN and the home can be connected to the Internet, the user can easily enjoy network communication. As described above, according to the communication game system, it is possible to safely and casually participate in the network game, so that it can be enjoyed by a wide range of people such as general game users who have avoided the net game until now. It is possible to realize and provide a network game that can be easily received and received.

  In the above-described embodiment, the identification information of the other party obtained from the other party that has performed the short-range wireless communication is registered in the friend list. However, the method of acquiring the identification information of the other party is not limited to short-range wireless communication. In another embodiment, for example, identification information manually input by the user may be registered in the friend list. By doing so, it is possible to exchange identification information by telephone or e-mail with friends and acquaintances who rarely meet because they live far away or do not meet their schedules, and easily enter the identification information of the other party manually Can be registered, so that even a friend or acquaintance who cannot meet directly can easily play a communication game via a network.

  Specifically, in this embodiment, since the identification information of the opponent is manually registered, each player needs to know his / her own identification information in order to transmit the identification information to the opponent. Therefore, in this embodiment, a self-ID display mode is prepared. For example, on a menu screen (not shown) at the start of the game, when an item or an icon indicating the self-ID display mode is selected by the player operating the predetermined operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22, the self-identification information is displayed on the screen. Is displayed.

  For example, FIG. 20 shows an example of an operation in the self-ID display mode. In step S241 in FIG. 20, the CPU core 42 determines whether to display the ID. That is, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the self-ID display mode has been selected based on operation data from the operation switch 20 or touch input data from the touch panel 22.

  If “YES” in the step S241, that is, if the operation data or the touch input data is data instructing the execution of the self-ID display mode, the CPU core 42 determines the own ID data in the step S243. From the self-identification data storage area 74 of the RAM 48 to the work area.

  Next, in step S245, the CPU core 42 encrypts its own ID and generates a user key. This user key is a display ID. As described above, in this embodiment, for security, a symbol string or a character string (user key) in which the ID is encrypted is generated and displayed without displaying the ID as it is.

  Then, in step S247, the CPU core 42 generates a screen (not shown) including the generated user key and the player name using the GPU 50 or the like, and displays the screen on the LCD 12 or 14. The player name is stored in the self-identification data storage area 74. The image data of various screens is stored in the ROM 28a in advance.

  When step S247 is completed, the process in the self-ID display mode is completed. If “NO” in the step S241, that is, if the ID display mode is not selected, the process returns to the main process without executing the process for displaying the ID.

  As described above, since the player's own ID (more precisely, the encrypted ID) can be displayed, the player can transmit the player's ID together with the player name to a friend or the like.

  In this embodiment, the own ID is generated in the self ID generation mode, and the own player name is input in the player name setting mode. FIG. 21 shows an example of the operation in the self-ID generation mode, which corresponds to the processing in step S3 in FIG. 8 in the above-described embodiment. An example of the operation in the player name setting mode is shown in FIG. 22, which corresponds to the processing in step S1 in FIG. In the above-described embodiment, the self-ID generation mode, the player name setting mode, and the communication game mode are collectively described in one flow chart (FIG. 8). The figures are shown separately. In the main processing, processing in each mode is executed, and substantial processing in each mode is executed when it is determined that the activation condition of the mode is satisfied.

  The self-ID generation mode is executed, for example, when the start of the game process is instructed for the first time, when the owner name of the game apparatus 10 is set, or when the player name of the communication game is set. Is done.

  In step S251 of FIG. 21, the CPU core 42 determines whether to generate an ID. Specifically, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not an operation that can be regarded as an ID generation instruction has been performed based on the operation data or the touch input data. For example, it is determined whether or not the start of the communication game has been instructed for the first time, whether or not the owner name of the game device 10 has been input or set, or whether or not the player name of the communication game has been input and set.

  If “YES” in the step S251, the CPU core 42 generates an ID in a step S253. The ID is generated, for example, by combining the MAC address, the current time, an arbitrary password, and the like.

  Then, in a step S255, the CPU core 42 stores the generated ID in a nonvolatile memory (for example, a flash memory) of the RAM 48. When the game process is executed with the memory card 28 inserted, the generated ID is stored not only in the self-identification data storage area 74 of the RAM 48 but also in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28. If the ID is already stored, it is overwritten.

When step S255 ends, the self-ID generation mode ends. If “NO” in the step S251, that is, if it can be considered that the ID generation is not instructed, the process for the ID generation is not executed. When the game process is restarted after the ID is generated once, the self-ID data is transferred from the nonvolatile memory of the RAM 48 or the RAM 28b of the memory card 28 to the self-identification data storage area 74 of the RAM 48, for example, in the initial setting. It will be read.

  The player name setting mode is executed, for example, when an item or an icon indicating the player name setting mode is selected on the menu screen at the start of the game by operating the predetermined operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 by the player. .

  For example, FIG. 22 shows an example of the operation in the player name setting mode. In step S261 of FIG. 22, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to input a player name. That is, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the player name setting mode has been selected based on operation data from the operation switch 20 or touch input data from the touch panel 22.

  If “YES” in the step S261, the CPU core 42 displays a player name input screen (not shown) on the LCD 12 or 14 using the GPU 50 or the like in a step S263. Further, for example, an image of a keyboard is displayed on LCD 14 provided with touch panel 22. The player can input a player name by touch input on the software keyboard or input using the operation switch 20.

  Subsequently, in step S265, the CPU core 42 determines whether the input has been completed. For example, it is determined whether or not an icon indicating input completion is selected based on operation data or touch input data. If “NO” in the step S265, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the input is canceled in a step S267. For example, it is determined whether or not an icon indicating cancellation is selected based on operation data or touch input data. If “NO” in the step S267, the process returns to the step S263 to continue to receive the input by the player. If “YES” in the step S267, the input of the player name is canceled, and the process of the player name setting mode is ended.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S265, the CPU core 42 acquires the input player name in a step S269, and stores it in the self-identification data storage area 74 of the RAM 48. Note that the player name may also be stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28. If the player name is already stored, it is overwritten.

  When step S269 ends, the processing in the player name setting mode ends. If “NO” in the step S261, the process returns to the main process without performing the process for setting the player name. When the game process is restarted after setting the player name once, the player name data is read from the RAM 28b of the memory card 28 to the self-identification data storage area 74 of the RAM 48, for example, by initial setting. .

  When the player receives the identification information from the opponent, the player manually registers the identification information in the game device 10 owned by the player. Therefore, in this embodiment, a partner ID input mode is prepared. For example, when an item or an icon indicating the opponent ID input mode is selected by the player operating the predetermined operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22 on the menu screen at the start of the game, the opponent ID input mode is executed. When this input mode is selected, an ID input screen (not shown) is displayed. On the ID input screen, the player can operate the software keyboard displayed on the LCD 14 with the touch panel 22 or operate the operation switch 20 to input the identification information of the other party. The input identification information of the other party is added to the friend list storage area 80. Since the identification information input by the player is a user key, the ID is obtained by decrypting the user key, and this ID is stored in the friend list.

  FIG. 23 shows an example of the operation in the partner ID input mode. In the first step S281 in FIG. 23, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to input the ID of another game device 10. That is, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the partner ID input mode has been selected based on operation data from the operation switch 20 or touch input data from the touch panel 22.

  If “YES” in the step S281, the CPU core 42 displays an ID input screen on the LCD 12 or 14 using the GPU 50 or the like in a step S283. Similarly to the case of the input of the player name described above, for example, a keyboard image is displayed on the LCD 14 provided with the touch panel 22, and the opponent ID is input by touch input to the software keyboard or input by the operation switch 20. Be able to do it.

  Subsequently, in step S285, the CPU core 42 determines whether the input has been completed. For example, it is determined whether or not an icon indicating input completion is selected based on operation data or touch input data. If “NO” in the step S285, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the input is canceled in a step S287. For example, it is determined whether or not an icon indicating cancellation is selected based on operation data or touch input data. If “NO” in the step S287, the process returns to the step S283, and continues to receive the input by the player. If “YES” in the step S287, the input of the partner ID is canceled, and the process of the partner ID input mode is ended.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S285, the CPU core 42 acquires the input user key and the player name in a step S289 and stores them in the work area of the RAM 48. Subsequently, in step S291, the CPU core 42 decrypts the acquired user key and acquires the partner ID. Then, in step S293, the CPU core 42 associates the acquired ID with the player name and adds it to the friend list storage area 80. When the friend list is stored in the RAM 28b of the memory card 28, the acquired partner ID and the player name are additionally stored in the friend list of the RAM 28b.

  When step S293 ends, the partner ID input mode ends. If “NO” in the step S281, the process returns to the main process without executing the process for inputting the partner ID. When the game processing is restarted after the friend list data is generated, the friend list data is read from the RAM 28b of the memory card 28 to the friend list storage area 80 of the RAM 48, for example, by initial setting. It will be.

  In this way, the identification information notified by the friend can be registered in the game device 10 of the user manually. In this embodiment, for security, a user key obtained by encrypting the ID is displayed and input as identification information instead of the ID itself. However, in other embodiments, the ID is displayed as it is. You may make it input.

  FIG. 24 shows an example of the operation in the communication game mode. For example, on the menu screen at the start of the game, when an item or an icon indicating the communication game mode is selected by the player operating the predetermined operation switch 20 or the touch panel 22, the communication game mode is executed. The processing in the communication game mode in FIG. 24 is the same as the processing in step S5 to step S21 in FIG. 8 described above, and the same reference numerals are given and duplicate description will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the identification information of the other party can be registered in the friend list not only by manual input but also by short-range wireless communication processing. However, in another embodiment, the identification information of the other party may be registered only by manual input. In that case, the game device 10 need not have a function for short-range wireless communication.

  When network communication is selected in the communication game mode, the game device 10 transmits the friend list data in the friend list storage area 80 to the server 72 in addition to the connection information such as its own ID and the connection address. . In this embodiment, the transmission of the friend list data also serves as an inquiry as to whether or not network communication is possible with another game apparatus 10 registered in the friend list. The reason why the friend list data is transmitted is to check whether or not the game devices 10 have registered identification information of each other in the server 72.

  In this embodiment, the identification information of the other party of the network communication can be registered not only by the short-range wireless communication but also by manual input. Therefore, for example, when the identification information is leaked or obtained improperly, one of the identification information can be registered. It can happen that only the game device 10 of the other has registered the identification information of the opponent. In order to prevent network communication from being executed in the case of such one-side registration, the server 72 manages a friend list of each game device 10 and both game devices 10 register identification information of each other. Check if you are. Note that even if the identification information of the other party has been properly exchanged through direct communication or short-range wireless communication, etc., but the other party or oneself has not registered the identification information, the other party and the other party will not be able to perform network communication. Is not executed. As described above, when the player wants to refuse network communication with the other party, the player may acquire the identification information of the other party but not register it.

  For example, FIGS. 25 and 26 show a part of an example of the operation in the Internet communication processing of this embodiment. The processes from step S61 to step S71 in FIG. 25 are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, and are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  After starting the notification processing in step S71, the CPU core 42 sends an inquiry including the ID and the player name of the other party registered in the friend list storage area 80 via the wireless communication unit 64 in the subsequent step S301. Send to The transmitted inquiry data further includes at least its own ID. In this embodiment, the IDs and player names of all the opponents registered in the friend list are transmitted, that is, by transmitting the friend list data, all other game devices 10 in the friend list are transmitted. An inquiry as to whether network communication is possible is transmitted. In another embodiment, only the ID of the other party stored in the friend list may be transmitted.

  Subsequently, in step S79, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the result of the inquiry transmitted in step S301 has been received from the server 72. If “YES” in the step S79, the CPU core 42 stores the received data in a work area of the RAM 48 in a step S81.

  In a succeeding step S303, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not the connection address of the other party has been acquired. For example, when it is determined that the server 72 can perform network communication with another game apparatus 10 corresponding to the inquiry ID, the server 72 transmits the connection address of the other party in association with the ID and responds to the inquiry ID. When it is determined that network communication with another game apparatus 10 is not possible, data indicating communication impossibility is transmitted in association with the ID. Therefore, here, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not at least one connection address is stored in the received data in association with the inquiry ID. In this way, based on the received inquiry result, it is determined whether network communication is possible with another game device registered in the friend list.

  If “NO” in the step S303 or “NO” in the step S79, the process proceeds to a step S85 in FIG.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S303, the CPU core 42 executes a connecting process to a partner (for convenience, called the game device x) whose connection address can be obtained in a step S305 in FIG. I do. When a plurality of connection addresses can be obtained, communication connection is made to each of the plurality of game apparatuses x. The CPU core 42 stores, in the communication partner information storage area 82, identification information of the partner from which the connection address has been obtained, that is, the ID, the player name, the connection address, and the like. Then, in step S307, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process with the game apparatus x via the wireless communication unit 64. When communication connection with a plurality of game devices 10 is established, communication game processing is executed with each of the plurality of game devices x.

  When step S307 ends, the process proceeds to step S97. If “NO” in the step S85, that is, if the cancel is not selected by the operation of the user or the inquiry has not timed out, the process proceeds to the step S97. The processing after step S97 is the same as that of the above-described embodiment, and the continuation of step S103 and the continuation of “NO” in step S97 are the same as those of the above-described embodiment (FIGS. 13 and 14). Duplicate description will be omitted.

  When the friend list data is transmitted from the game device 10, the server 72 stores the data for each game device 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, the server 72 stores a friend list of the game apparatus 10 in the connected list storage area 84 in association with the ID of the game apparatus 10 or the like. The friend list includes the other party's ID and the player name. That is, in this embodiment, the server 72 not only manages the ID, player name, and connection address of the game device 10 connected to the network in the connected list, but also stores the friend list of the game device 10. I have. Therefore, the server 72 checks whether or not the game devices 10 have mutually registered the identification information of each other, so that network communication is not performed between the game devices 10 that do not mutually register the identification information. can do.

  The server 72 determines whether the game device 10 that has transmitted the friend list, that is, the inquiry, can perform network communication with another game device 10 registered in the friend list. Specifically, the server 72 detects whether or not each of the partner IDs in the received friend list is stored in the connected list data as the ID of the connected game device 10. Further, the server 72 detects whether or not the ID of the game device 10 that has transmitted the inquiry is registered in the friend list of another game device 10 that has been detected to be connected. If it is determined that the opponent registered in the friend list is connected and the identification information of the game device 10 is registered in the friend list of the opponent, the server 72 It is determined that network communication is possible with the game device 10 and the connection address of the other party is returned to the game device 10. On the other hand, if the opponent registered in the friend list is not connected, or if the game device 10 that sent the inquiry is not registered in the opponent's friend list, network communication with the opponent is disabled. It determines that there is, and replies that communication with the other party is not possible.

  For example, FIG. 28 shows an example of the operation in the communication processing of the server 72 of this embodiment. Steps S201 to S205 in FIG. 28 are the same as those in FIG. 18 described above, and are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

If “YES” in the step S205 of FIG. 28, that is, if an inquiry is received from the game device 10, the CPU of the server 72 registers the friend list of the game device 10 in the connected list. That is, the CPU receives the inquiry data (including the friend list data), and extracts the friend list data of the game device 10 from the received data. Then, the IDs of all the opponents and the player names included in the friend list data are stored in the connected list storage area 84 in association with the ID of the game apparatus 10.

  The CPU of the server 72 checks whether the ID of the other party in the received friend list is a regular number or a character string, and only the ID determined to be regular is used as the friend list in the connected list. You may make it memorize. In the friend list in the connected list data, only the ID of the other party may be stored without storing the player name of the other party.

  Subsequently, in step S323, the CPU of the server 72 compares the ID of the opponent included in the inquiry data with the ID of the connected game apparatus 10 stored in the connected list storage area 84, and It detects whether the other party included in the list is connected. When a plurality of partner IDs are included in the inquiry data, one ID is selected and the one ID is detected.

  Then, in step S325, the CPU of server 72 determines whether or not the queried ID is registered in the connected list. If “YES” is determined in the step S325, that is, if the inquired game device 10 is connected to the network, the CPU of the server 72 determines a friend list of the registered ID in a step S327. refer. In other words, the ID registered in the friend list associated with the ID determined to be connected to the ID of the game device 10 that transmitted the inquiry is compared with the ID of the game device 10 that transmitted the inquiry, and the inquiry list is added to the friend list of the partner. Is detected whether the ID of the game device 10 that has transmitted the is registered.

  In a succeeding step S329, the CPU of the server 72 determines whether or not the ID of the inquired game device 10 is registered in a friend list of another game device 10 determined to be connected. If “YES” in the step S329, the CPU of the server 72 reads the connection address corresponding to the inquired connected ID from the connected list storage area 84, and reads the connection address corresponding to the inquired ID. The connection address is stored as a query result. That is, query result data that stores the connection address in association with the inquired ID is generated.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S329, that is, although the inquired ID is stored in the connected list, the ID of the game apparatus 10 which has transmitted the inquiry to the friend list of the inquiry ID is registered. Otherwise, only the identification information of the opponent is registered in only one of the game devices 10, and it is considered that the identification information has not been exchanged or that the other has rejected the network communication. , The process proceeds to step S333.

  If “NO” in the step S325, that is, if the inquired ID is not connected to the network, the process proceeds to a step S333.

  In step S333, the CPU of the server 72 stores, as a result of the inquiry, a communication failure for the inquired ID. That is, inquiry result data that stores data indicating that communication is disabled in association with the inquired ID is generated.

When step S331 or step S333 is completed, the CPU of the server 72 determines whether or not network communication has been confirmed for all inquiry IDs in step S335. If “NO” in the step S335, that is, if there is an ID for which the processing from the step S323 to the step S333 is not executed among the IDs included in the friend list acquired in the step S321, the process proceeds to the step S335. Returning to S323, the remaining inquiry IDs are confirmed. In this way, inquiry result data in which the availability of communication for each inquiry ID is stored is generated.

  Then, if “YES” in the step S335, the CPU of the server 72 transmits the generated inquiry result data to the game apparatus 10 that has transmitted the inquiry in a step S337. When step S337 ends, this communication process ends.

  According to this embodiment, since the identification information of the other party can be registered by manual input, even a distant friend who cannot meet directly can play a communication game via the network. In addition, since the network communication condition is that the identification information of each other is registered in the friend list, the communication connection is suddenly made by a stranger who does not know at all, or a stranger who has obtained the identification information illegally Communication can be prevented.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, in the short-range wireless communication of the game apparatus 10, the exchange of the identification information is performed after the communication game processing is executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, after executing the communication game processing in step S41, the CPU core 42 exchanges identification information in steps S43 to S49. However, in another embodiment, in the short-range wireless communication, only the exchange of identification information may be performed without performing a communication game process such as a game or an application. This makes it possible to easily acquire the identification information of the other party and register it in the friend list without executing the communication game or the application.

  FIG. 29 shows an example of the operation in the wireless communication processing of the other embodiment. In FIG. 29, the same processes as those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  After executing the connection process with another game device 10 in step S39 of FIG. 29, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to exchange an ID with the other game device 10 in step S43. If “YES” in the step S43, the CPU core 42 executes ID exchange and registration in the friend list from a step S45 to a step S49, and if “NO”, the process directly proceeds to a step S351.

  In step S351, the CPU core 42 determines whether to continue the communication game. For example, CPU core 42 determines whether or not continuation of the communication game has been instructed based on input data from operation switch 20 or touch panel 22 or the like.

  If “YES” in the step S351, the CPU core 42 executes a communication game process in a step S353, similarly to the step S41 in FIG. Subsequently, the CPU core 42 determines whether or not to end the communication game in step S51. If “NO”, the process returns to step S43. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S51 or “NO” in the step S351, the wireless communication process ends.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the server 72 is provided on the network, and the server 72 manages the connected list such as registration and deletion of identification information in the connected list, and checks the connected list according to the inquiry (query) (Detection of connection possibility for ID) and transmission of the detection result. However, in another embodiment, without providing the server 72 on the network, for example, any or some of the plurality of game devices 10 or each of the plurality of game devices 10 The function may be executed.

10 Game device 12, 14 LCD
28: Memory card 28a: ROM
28b… RAM
42 ... CPU core 48 ... RAM
50, 52 ... GPU
56, 58 ... VRAM
60 LCD controller 64 Wireless communication unit 70 Wireless LAN access point 72 Server

Claims (14)

A communication game system including a plurality of game devices,
Each game device
First storage means for storing its own identification information,
Registration means for registering opponent identification information, which is the identification information of the other game device,
Network connection means for connecting to an access point accessible to a network for performing network communication,
When connecting to the network via the access point by the network connection unit, it is determined whether network communication with the other game device corresponding to the partner identification information registered by the registration unit is possible. A communication game system, comprising: a determination unit that determines; and a first communication unit that performs network communication with the another game device determined to be capable of network communication by the determination unit. Each of the game devices further includes a second communication unit that communicates with the other game device by short-range wireless communication,
2. The communication game system according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit stores the other party identification information received from the another game device in the communication by the second communication unit in a second storage unit. 3. A server on the network,
Each of the game devices,
Notification means for transmitting to the server a notification including the identification information of itself and indicating that it is connected to the network; and the other game device corresponding to the opponent identification information stored in the second storage means Further comprising an inquiry means for transmitting an inquiry to the server whether or not the connection to the network,
The server is
Connected list storage means for storing at least the identification information and the address of the game apparatus being connected to the network based on the notification in a third storage means,
First detecting means for detecting whether or not the received partner identification information is stored in the third storage means when receiving the inquiry; and storing the partner identification information in the third storage by the first detecting means. Response means for transmitting the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information to the game device that transmitted the inquiry, when it is detected that the game device is stored in the device.
The determining means determines whether or not the other game device is connected to the network based on a result of the inquiry received from the server,
The first communication means, when the determination means determines that the other game device is being connected to the network, performs network communication with the other game device based on the address received from the server. 3. The communication game system according to claim 2, wherein communication is performed. Each of the game devices further includes opponent input means for acquiring opponent identification information input in response to a user operation,
The communication game system according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit stores the partner identification information acquired by the partner input unit in a second storage unit. A server on the network,
Each of the game devices,
Notification means for transmitting to the server a notification including the identification information of itself and indicating that it is connected to the network; and a registration partner for transmitting the partner identification information stored in the second storage means to the server. Further comprising a transmission means,
The server is
Connected list storage means for storing at least the identification information and the address of the game apparatus being connected to the network based on the notification in a third storage means,
Registered partner storage means for storing the partner identification information received from the game device in fourth storage means for each game device;
When the opponent identification information is received, the received opponent identification information is stored in the third storage unit, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information corresponds to the opponent identification information. Second detecting means for detecting whether or not the opponent identification information for the game device is stored in the fourth storage means, and the received opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means by the second detecting means. Means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage means as the opponent identification information for the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When this is detected, the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information is transmitted to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. Have a response means to communicate,
The determination means is based on the data received from the server, the other game device corresponding to the opponent identification information stored in the second storage means is being connected to the network, and It is determined whether or not the identification information of the other game device is registered as the opponent identification information,
The first communication unit determines that the determination unit determines that the another game device is connected to the network and that the identification information of the other game device is registered as the opponent identification information of the another game device. 5. The communication game system according to claim 4, wherein when it is performed, network communication is performed with the other game device based on the address received from the server.   The communication game system according to claim 4, wherein each of the game devices further includes first display means for displaying the identification information of the game device.   When the first game device is in network communication with the second game device, the first game device is connected to the third game device by the third game device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an introduction unit configured to transmit the opponent identification information corresponding to the second game device and transmit the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device to the second game device. 7. The communication game system according to any one of 6.   When the first game device among the respective game devices is in network communication with the second game device, the first game device transmits the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device from the second game device. The communication game system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: third communication means for performing network communication with the third game device when receiving the third game device. The first game device,
Registration judging means for judging whether or not the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device with which the third communication means has performed network communication is stored in the second storage means, and stored by the registration judging means. 9. The communication game system according to claim 8, further comprising an additional registration unit that stores the opponent identification information corresponding to the third game device in the second storage unit when it is determined that the third game device is determined. The game device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein each of the game devices further includes a communication method selection unit that selects whether to perform network communication by the first communication unit or short-range wireless communication by the second communication unit. The communication game system as described. A game device used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network,
First storage means for storing its own identification information,
Registration means for registering opponent identification information that is identification information of the other game device;
Network connection means for connecting to an access point accessible to the network for performing network communication,
When connecting to the network via the access point by the network connection unit, it is determined whether network communication with the other game device corresponding to the partner identification information registered by the registration unit is possible. A game device comprising: a determination unit that determines; and a first communication unit that performs network communication with the another game device determined to be capable of network communication by the determination unit. A game program for a game device, which is used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network, and includes a first storage unit that stores at least its own identification information,
In the processor of the game device,
A registration step of registering opponent identification information that is identification information of another game device;
A network connection step for connecting to an access point accessible to the network for performing network communication;
When connecting to the network via the access point by the network connection step, determine whether or not network communication with the other game device corresponding to the other party identification information registered in the registration step is possible. A game program for executing a determining step of determining, and a first communication step of performing network communication with the other game device determined to be capable of network communication in the determining step. A server used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network,
Each game device includes a first storage device that stores its own identification information and a second storage device that stores opponent identification information that is identification information of the other game device,
Connected list storage means for storing at least the self identification information and address received from the game device connected to the network in a third storage means,
Registered partner storage means for storing the partner identification information received from the game device in fourth storage means for each game device;
When receiving the opponent identification information, the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information corresponds to the game corresponding to the opponent identification information. A second detection unit that detects whether or not the other party identification information for the device is stored in the fourth storage unit; and the second detection unit stores the other party identification information in the third storage unit, Also, it is detected that the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage unit as the opponent identification information for the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. A response unit that transmits the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information to the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information. Server. A communication processing program for a server used in a communication game system in which a plurality of game devices communicate via a network,
Each game device includes a first storage device that stores its own identification information and a second storage device that stores opponent identification information that is identification information of the other game device,
In the processor of the server,
A connected list storing step of storing at least the self identification information and the address received from the game device being connected to the network in a third storage unit;
A registered opponent storage step of storing the opponent identification information received from the game device in fourth storage means for each of the game devices;
When receiving the opponent identification information, the opponent identification information is stored in the third storage means, and the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information corresponds to the game corresponding to the opponent identification information. A second detection step of detecting whether or not the other party identification information for the device is stored in the fourth storage means, and the second detection step stores the other party identification information in the third storage means, Also, it is detected that the identification information of the game device that transmitted the opponent identification information is stored in the fourth storage unit as the opponent identification information for the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information. When transmitting the address of the game device corresponding to the opponent identification information to the game device that has transmitted the opponent identification information, The server's communication processing program that executes the answer step.

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