Communication system, communication device, communication server, communication method, information recording medium, and program

The present invention relates to a communication system, a communication device, a communication server, a communication method, and a program suitable for easily disseminating game information to each player as the game progresses.

In recent years, network games in which a plurality of players can participate via the Internet or the like have become widespread. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a network game system capable of efficiently obtaining information on a play room, participating players, and the like. According to this, the game system searches the database based on the search conditions entered by the player and provides information on the playrooms and participating players that match the search conditions, so that the player can find and participate in the desired playroom. You can decide which playroom to play.<patcit num="1"><text>Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-097622</text></patcit>

<p> However, in a game in virtual space, if each player does not constantly monitor or display the result screen of the game each time, what kind of player caused the event that occurred during the game? It was not easy to know detailed information such as the progress and results of the game. Also, when many players play network games, it is not possible to ask them how each player succeeded or failed unless they communicated with each other using other means of communication such as telephone, email, and chat. It wasn't easy. For example, in a network game in which the success or failure of one player affects all other players, such as a network game in which many players manipulate characters to jump rope in virtual space, the failed player Has no chance to explain his failure, and other players have no chance to hear (see) the explanation from the player who failed. Also, for example, in a game of competing for victory or defeat, the winning player has limited opportunities to brag or explain to other players even if he wins, and conversely, the losing player makes excuses or excuses. Opportunities to do are limited. Therefore, in the conventional network game, there is a problem that the information provided by the parties such as the winning player, the losing player, and the important player who holds the key to the progress of the game is small, and the tension is lacking.</p><p> The present invention solves such a problem, and provides a communication system, a communication device, a communication server, a communication method, and a program suitable for easily disseminating game information to each player according to the progress of the game. The purpose is to do.</p>

<p> In order to achieve the above object, the following invention will be disclosed in accordance with the principle of the present invention.</p><p> The communication system according to the first aspect of the present invention is a communication system in which a server and a plurality of communication devices are connected by a network, and the server includes a discriminating unit, a notification transmitting unit, a message receiving unit, and a distribution unit. The communication device includes a notification receiving unit, a message receiving unit, a message transmitting unit, and an output unit. First, on the server The discriminating unit determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the plurality of communication devices. The notification transmitting unit transmits a disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted to the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discriminating unit among the plurality of communication devices. In addition, in each communication device, The notification receiving unit receives the disapproval notification from the server. The message receiving unit accepts the input of the message data from the user when the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification. The message sending unit transmits the message data received by the message receiving unit to the server. In addition, on the server The message receiving unit receives the message data from the communication device. The distribution unit distributes the message data received by the message reception unit to each of the communication devices. And in each of the communication devices The output unit outputs the message data delivered from the server. By configuring the communication system in this way, the communication system receives and delivers a message from the user of each communication device. At that time, the communication system can allow only the transmission of a message from a specific communication device and not the transmission of a message from other communication devices. That is, by allowing a specific player to send a message with priority over other players, it is possible to inform the participating players of game information such as a message from the specific player. For example, when you want to show or let all participating users write or say something from a specific user during the execution of a network game or chat, you can send a message to a communication device other than the communication device used by that specific user. By notifying that input is not permitted, it is possible to control so that only the specific user can write or speak. For example, in a network game, when a player wins, only the winning player is allowed to write and speak, and only the losing player is allowed to write and speak, so that the message of the parties and the result of victory or defeat can be easily given to everyone. I can let you know. The parties may be not only the players involved in the victory or defeat, but also the players who hold the key to the progress of the game, the players who watch the game, and other players.</p><p> Further, the message receiving unit may accept the input of the message data from the user when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last receipt of the disapproval notification. That is, even if the communication device is notified once that the message input is not permitted, the communication device can accept the message input again after a predetermined time has elapsed. The communication system can be repeatedly controlled to allow or disallow the transmission of messages for the same communication device.</p><p> Each of the communication devices also An identification information storage unit that stores identification information for identifying a communication device in advance may be provided. Then, the notification transmission unit includes all the communication devices constituting the communication system including the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discrimination unit, including the identification information corresponding to the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discrimination unit. Send the disapproval notice and If the identification information indicated by the disapproval notification received by the notification receiving unit and the identification information stored in the identification information storage unit do not match, the message receiving unit may accept input of the message data from the user. By configuring the communication system in this way, the server of the communication system does not need to select the destination of the notification indicating whether to allow or disallow the transmission of the message from which communication device each time. The processing load can be reduced.</p><p> Each of the communication devices also An operation input reception unit that accepts operation input by the user, An operation input transmission unit that sends information indicating the operation input received by the operation input reception unit to the server, and an operation input transmission unit. May be provided. Also, the server further Operation input receiver that receives information indicating the operation input from the communication device, May be provided. Then, for each of the plurality of communication devices, the discriminating unit satisfies the predetermined condition based on the information indicating the operation input received by the operation input receiving unit and the predetermined condition assigned in advance to the communication device. It may be determined whether or not, and transmission of message data by a communication device satisfying the predetermined condition may be determined as disapproval. By configuring the communication system in this way, the server of the communication system can determine a communication device that allows / disallows transmission of a message depending on whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, in a network game, if clearing the game is a predetermined condition, the server can allow the transmission of a message only for the communication device of the player who can clear the game or only the communication device of the player who cannot clear the game. .. As a result, the participating players can obtain game information such as who was able to clear (or could not) without any special operation, and listen to the comments of the players who were able to clear (could not) ( You can see).</p><p> The message reception unit accepts voice input of the message data from the user, The output unit may reproduce and output the message data delivered from the server by voice. With this configuration, the communication system can allow / disallow the transmission of voice messages. For example, in voice chat, only voice messages from a specific user can be preferentially delivered.</p><p> The disapproval notice may include identification information for identifying a communication device that is permitted to transmit the message data. In addition, each of the communication devices further An image storage unit that stores identification information of a communication device in association with image data of a predetermined character object. May be provided. Then, when the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification, the output unit displays each of the image data of the predetermined character object stored in the image storage unit in a predetermined display format, and if not, , The image data corresponding to the identification information not included in the disapproval notice may be highlighted and displayed. By configuring the communication system in this way, each communication device of the communication system can clearly distinguish between the communication device that is permitted to send a message and the communication device that is not permitted to send a message. It becomes possible to easily recognize the communication device or which player is in a state where writing or speaking can be performed. For example, an image corresponding to a communication device that is permitted to send a message may be displayed in a relatively large size, or a motion image indicating an permitted state and a motion image indicating an unauthorized state may be displayed separately. By doing so, the user can be notified of permission / disapproval.</p><p> Each of the communication devices runs a network game over the network, The server manages the progress of the network game and The server also A parameter storage unit that stores at least one of a predetermined timing, a predetermined stage, a predetermined scene, and a predetermined event of the network game in advance in association with a numerical parameter for obtaining the predetermined time. In the network game, a game determination unit that determines whether or not the predetermined timing, the predetermined stage, or the predetermined scene has been reached, or whether or not a predetermined event has occurred, and May be provided. In addition, the notification transmitting unit determines that the game determination unit has reached any of the predetermined timing, the predetermined stage, and the predetermined scene, or the predetermined event has occurred. When it is determined, the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discriminating unit is associated with at least one of the predetermined timing, the predetermined stage, the predetermined scene, and the depression of the predetermined event. The numerical parameter is acquired from the parameter storage unit, the predetermined time is calculated based on the acquired numerical parameter, and the disapproval notice including the calculated predetermined time is transmitted. The message receiving unit may accept the input of the message data from the user when the predetermined time indicated by the disapproval notification received by the notification receiving unit has elapsed since the last receiving the disapproval notification. With this configuration, the communication system can determine the communication device that allows the transmission of the message and the communication device that does not allow the transmission of the message according to the progress of the network game, and allows (not allows) the time of the game. It can be changed depending on the development and grades. For example, for a particular communication device, you can send a message for a long time at important timing stage scene events in the game, and send a message for a short time at less important timing stage scene events. Can be controlled so that For example, in a game competing for points, it may be controlled so that a message can be sent for a longer time as a higher score is obtained. For example, the greater the influence a player has on the game, the longer the message may be sent.</p><p> The notification transmission unit starts the network game or the elapsed time from the start of the network game to reaching at least one of the predetermined timing, the predetermined stage, and the predetermined scene, or the network game. The predetermined time may be calculated so as to monotonically increase with respect to the elapsed time from that time to the occurrence of the predetermined event. By configuring the communication system in this way, the communication system can change the time for permitting (not permitting) the transmission of the message according to the progress of the network game. For example, if the game is settled in a long-lasting good game, a message may be sent for a long time.</p><p> Each of the communication devices also A request reception unit that accepts requests for extension of the predetermined time by the user, A request transmission unit that sends information indicating the request received by the request reception unit to the server, and a request transmission unit. May be provided. Also, the server further A request receiver that receives information indicating the request from the communication device, May be provided. Then, the discriminating unit further determines whether or not to extend the predetermined time based on the total number of the requests received by the request receiving unit and the total number of communication devices connected to the network. If the determination unit determines that the extension is to be extended, the notification transmission unit may retransmit the disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted to the communication device that last transmitted the disapproval notification. By configuring the communication system in this way, the communication system can extend the time for permitting (not permitting) the transmission of messages according to the request. For example, if only the winning player is allowed to send a message for a given time, and the given time is exceeded halfway through while speaking, other players can request to continue speaking, and a large number of requests will be made. If there is, it can be controlled to extend. For example, if only the failing player is allowed to send the message for a given period of time and is not satisfied with what he said, other players can request additional comments and control to extend it if there are a large number of requests.</p><p> The distribution unit may distribute the message data to a communication device other than the communication device from which the message data received by the message reception unit is transmitted among the communication devices. That is, the server may deliver the received message data to at least a communication device other than the communication device that transmitted the message data. For example, when a message is delivered in real time, the user who inputs the message does not see or hear the message input by himself / herself, so he / she can see the input screen and the output screen at the same time, or can hear the input voice and the output voice. You can avoid the hassle of listening at the same time. For example, when the message is not delivered in real time, the user who inputs the message can avoid the trouble of reviewing or re-listening to the message input by himself / herself. The server can reduce the processing load of delivering message data.</p><p> The communication system according to another aspect of the present invention is a communication system in which a server and a plurality of communication devices are connected by a network, and the server includes a discriminating unit, a notification transmitting unit, a message receiving unit, and a distribution unit for communication. The device includes a notification receiving unit, a message receiving unit, a message transmitting unit, and an output unit. First, on the server The discriminating unit determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the plurality of communication devices. The notification transmitting unit transmits a permission notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is permitted for a predetermined time to the communication device determined to be permitted by the discriminating unit among the plurality of communication devices. In addition, in each communication device, The notification receiving unit receives the disapproval notification from the server. When the notification receiving unit receives the permission notification, the message receiving unit accepts the input of the message data from the user. The message sending unit transmits the message data received by the message receiving unit to the server. In addition, on the server, The message receiving unit receives the message data from the communication device. The distribution unit distributes the message data received by the message reception unit to each of the communication devices. And in each of the communication devices The output unit outputs the message data delivered from the server. With this configuration, the communication system receives and delivers a message from the user of each communication device. At that time, the communication system can allow only the transmission of a message from a specific communication device and not the transmission of a message from other communication devices. That is, a message from a specific communication device can be preferentially sent to all communication devices to be sent to be known. For example, when you want to show or let all participating users write or say something from a specific user during the execution of a network game or chat, allow the communication device used by that specific user to input a message. By notifying that the user will do so, it is possible to control so that only the specific user can write or speak. When a player who is a network game wins, it is easy to let everyone know the message of the parties and the result of victory or defeat by allowing only the winning player to write and speak, and only the losing player to write and speak. Can be done. The parties may be not only the players involved in the victory or defeat, but also the players who hold the key to the progress of the game, the players who watch the game, and other players.</p><p> The message receiving unit may accept the input of the message data from the user when the notification receiving unit receives the permission notification and the current date and time is included in the predetermined time indicated by the permission notification. For example, when the communication device receives a notification that the message input is permitted for a predetermined time, the user can input the message within the predetermined time. The communication system can be repeatedly controlled to allow or disallow the transmission of messages for the same communication device.</p><p> A communication device according to another aspect of the present invention includes an image storage unit, a notification receiving unit, a message receiving unit, a message transmitting unit, an output unit, and a display unit. The image storage unit stores the identification information of the plurality of communication devices in association with the image data of a predetermined character object. The notification receiving unit receives a disapproval notification from the server including the identification information of the communication device that does not allow the transmission of the message data. The message receiving unit accepts the input of the message data from the user when the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification. The message sending unit transmits the message data received by the message receiving unit to the server. The output unit outputs the message data delivered from the server. When the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification, the display unit displays each of the image data of the predetermined character object stored in the image storage unit in a predetermined display format, and if not, the display unit. The image data corresponding to the identification information included in the disapproval notification is highlighted and displayed. By configuring the communication device in this way, the communication device can determine which communication device is currently permitted or not permitted to send a message, and display each display format of the image assigned in advance for each communication device. By changing it, the user can be clearly informed. For example, an image corresponding to a communication device that is permitted to send a message may be displayed in a relatively large size, or a motion image indicating an permitted state and a motion image indicating an unauthorized state may be displayed separately. By doing so, it is possible to notify the user of permission / disapproval.</p><p> The communication server according to another aspect of the present invention includes a discriminating unit, a notification transmitting unit, a message receiving unit, and a distribution unit. The discriminating unit determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the communication devices connected by the network. The notification transmitting unit transmits a disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted for a predetermined time to the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discriminating unit. The message receiving unit receives the message data from a communication device determined to be permitted by the determining unit. The distribution unit distributes the message data received by the message reception unit to each of the communication devices. By configuring the server in this way, the communication server can preferentially receive and deliver a message from a specific communication device. For example, when it is desired to inform other users of game information such as game win / loss comments sent from a specific user, the transmission of a message to a communication device other than the communication device used by the specific user is not permitted for a predetermined time. By notifying that, the communication server receives the game information only from the communication device used by the specific user and distributes it to other communication devices. During a predetermined time, communication devices other than the specific communication device are not allowed to send a message and only receive game information from the specific communication device. Therefore, a user who uses the other communication device uses the specific communication device. It is possible to obtain game information from the user who plays the game.</p><p> The communication method according to another aspect of the present invention is a communication method executed by a communication device having an image storage unit, a notification receiving unit, a message receiving unit, a message transmitting unit, an output unit, and a display unit, and receives notifications. It includes a step, a message reception step, a message transmission step, an output step, and a display step. In the image storage unit, identification information of a plurality of communication devices and image data of a predetermined character object are stored in association with each other. In the notification receiving step, the notification receiving unit receives the disapproval notification from the server including the identification information of the communication device that does not allow the transmission of the message data. In the message receiving step, when the notification receiving step has not received the disapproval notification, the message receiving unit receives the input of the message data from the user. In the message transmission step, the message transmission unit transmits the message data received by the message reception step to the server. In the output step, the output unit outputs the message data delivered from the server. In the display step, when the notification receiving step has not received the disapproval notification, the display unit displays each of the image data of the predetermined character object stored in the image storage unit in a predetermined display format. If not, the image data corresponding to the identification information included in the disapproval notice is highlighted and displayed. By configuring the communication method in this way, the communication device can determine which communication device is currently permitted to send a message or not, and display each display format of the image assigned in advance for each communication device. By changing it, the user can be clearly informed. For example, an image corresponding to a communication device that is permitted to send a message may be displayed in a relatively large size, or a motion image indicating an permitted state and a motion image indicating an unauthorized state may be displayed separately. By doing so, it is possible to notify the user of permission / disapproval.</p><p> The communication method according to another aspect of the present invention is a communication method executed by a server having a discrimination unit, a notification transmission unit, a message reception unit, and a distribution unit, and is a discrimination step, a notification transmission step, a message reception step, and the like. It has a delivery step. In the determination step, the determination unit determines whether or not the transmission of message data is permitted for each of the communication devices connected by the network. In the notification transmission step, the notification transmission unit transmits a disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted for a predetermined time to the communication device determined not to be permitted by the determination unit. The message receiving unit receives the message data from a communication device determined by the message receiving unit to be permitted by the determination step. In the distribution step, the distribution unit distributes the message data received by the message reception step to each of the communication devices. By configuring the communication method in this way, the communication server can preferentially receive and deliver a message from a specific communication device. For example, when it is desired to inform other users of game information such as game win / loss comments sent from a specific user, the transmission of a message to a communication device other than the communication device used by the specific user is not permitted for a predetermined time. By notifying that, the communication server receives the game information only from the communication device used by the specific user and distributes it to other communication devices. During a predetermined time, communication devices other than the specific communication device are not allowed to send a message and only receive game information from the specific communication device. Therefore, a user who uses the other communication device uses the specific communication device. It is possible to obtain game information from the user who plays the game.</p><p> The program according to another aspect of the present invention causes the computer to function as an image storage unit, a notification receiving unit, a message receiving unit, a message transmitting unit, an output unit, and a display unit. The image storage unit stores the identification information of the plurality of communication devices in association with the image data of a predetermined character object. The notification receiving unit receives a disapproval notification from the server including the identification information of the communication device that does not allow the transmission of the message data. The message receiving unit accepts the input of the message data from the user when the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification. The message sending unit transmits the message data received by the message receiving unit to the server. The output unit outputs the message data delivered from the server. When the notification receiving unit has not received the disapproval notification, the display unit displays each of the image data of the predetermined character object stored in the image storage unit in a predetermined display format, and if not, the display unit. The image data corresponding to the identification information included in the disapproval notification is highlighted and displayed. By configuring the program in this way, the computer can determine which computers are currently allowed or not allowed to send messages by changing the display format of the pre-assigned images for each computer. It functions as a communication device that can clearly inform the user. For example, an image corresponding to a communication device that is permitted to send a message may be displayed in a relatively large size, or a motion image indicating an permitted state and a motion image indicating an unauthorized state may be displayed separately. By doing so, it is possible to notify the user of permission / disapproval.</p><p> The program according to another aspect of the present invention causes the computer to function as a discriminating unit, a notification transmitting unit, a message receiving unit, and a distribution unit. The discriminating unit determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the communication devices connected by the network. The notification transmitting unit transmits a disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted for a predetermined time to the communication device determined not to be permitted by the discriminating unit. The message receiving unit receives the message data from a communication device determined to be permitted by the determining unit. The distribution unit distributes the message data received by the message reception unit to each of the communication devices. By configuring the program in this way, the communication server can preferentially receive and deliver a message from a specific communication device. For example, when it is desired to inform other users of game information such as game win / loss comments sent from a specific user, the transmission of a message to a communication device other than the communication device used by the specific user is not permitted for a predetermined time. By notifying that, the communication server receives the game information only from the communication device used by the specific user and distributes it to other communication devices. During a predetermined time, communication devices other than the specific communication device are not allowed to send a message and only receive game information from the specific communication device. Therefore, a user who uses the other communication device uses the specific communication device. It is possible to obtain game information from the user who plays the game.</p><p> Further, the program of the present invention can be recorded on a computer-readable information storage medium such as a compact disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magneto-optical disk, a digital video disk, a magnetic tape, or a semiconductor memory. The above program can be distributed and sold via a computer communication network independently of the computer on which the program is executed. In addition, the information storage medium can be distributed and sold independently of the computer.</p>

<p> According to the present invention, game information can be easily disseminated to each player as the game progresses.</p>

(Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of the communication system 1 of the present embodiment. The communication system 1 includes N communication devices 10 (N is an integer of 1 or more) 10 (described as 10-1, 10-2, 10-N in the figure) and a communication server 20. The communication device 10 is a terminal operated by each user. For example, when playing a network game via the communication system 1, one player typically operates one communication device 10 to play the game. The communication server 20 is a server that manages the entire communication system 1, and performs user (player) authentication, network game progress management, and the like. The communication device 10 and the communication server 20 are connected to each other by the communication network 30. In the present embodiment, the communication network 30 is the Internet, but other communication means such as LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) may be used.

For example, a user can operate a communication device 10 to play a network game such as an online baseball game, or have a conversation using a so-called chat messaging system using text, voice, images, and the like. The communication server 20 receives message data transmitted from each communication device 10 included in the communication system 1 and distributes the message data to each communication device 10.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an outline configuration of a typical game device in which the communication device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention is realized. The communication device 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an interface 104, a controller 105, an external memory 106, and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). )-A ROM drive 107, an image processing unit 108, an audio processing unit 109, and a NIC (Network Interface Card) 110 are provided.

By mounting a DVD-ROM storing a game program and data in the DVD-ROM drive 107 and turning on the power of the communication device 10, the program is executed and the communication device 10 of the present embodiment is executed. It will be realized.

The CPU 101 controls the operation of the entire communication device 10 and is connected to each component to exchange control signals and data. For example, the CPU 101 controls each part to send message data input from the user to the communication server 20 and receive message data sent by another communication device 10 from the communication server 20 ( Hereinafter referred to as "communication processing"). Details will be described later.

The IPL (Initial Program Loader) that is executed immediately after the power is turned on is recorded in ROM 102, and when this is executed, the program recorded on the DVD-ROM is read into RAM 103 and execution by CPU 101 is started. To. In addition, the ROM 102 records operating system (OS) programs and various data necessary for controlling the operation of the entire communication device 10.

RAM 103 is for temporarily storing data and programs, and holds programs and data read from a DVD-ROM, and other data necessary for game progress and chat communication.

The controller 105 connected via the interface 104 receives an operation input performed by the user when executing the game. For example, the controller 105 is provided with an A button, a B button, an X button, a Y button, and each direction button (direction key) indicating four directions. Then, when these buttons are pressed by the user, the operation input corresponding to the pressed buttons is accepted.

The external memory 106, which is detachably connected via the interface 104, rewritably stores data indicating the progress of the game, chat communication log (recording) data, and the like. The user can appropriately record these data in the external memory 106 by inputting instructions via the controller 105.

The DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 records a program for realizing the game and image data and audio data associated with the game. Under the control of the CPU 101, the DVD-ROM drive 107 performs a read process on the DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 to read necessary programs and data, which are temporarily stored in the RAM 103 or the like.

The image processing unit 108 processes the data read from the DVD-ROM and the message data such as received characters and images by the image calculation processor (not shown) included in the CPU 101 or the image processing unit 108, and then processes the data. This is recorded in a frame memory (not shown) included in the image processing unit 108. The image information recorded in the frame memory is converted into a video signal at a predetermined synchronization timing and output to a monitor (not shown) connected to the image processing unit 108. This makes it possible to display various images.

The image calculation processor can execute two-dimensional image superposition calculation, transparency calculation such as α blending, and various saturation calculations at high speed. In addition, polygon information that is placed in the virtual 3D space and has various texture information added is rendered by the Z-buffer method, and a rendered image that gives a bird's-eye view of the polygons placed in the virtual 3D space from a predetermined viewpoint position is displayed. High-speed execution of the obtained calculation is also possible.

Furthermore, by coordinating the CPU 101 and the image calculation processor, it is possible to draw a character string as a two-dimensional image in the frame memory or draw it on the surface of each polygon according to the font information that defines the shape of the character. is there. The font information is recorded in ROM 102, but it is also possible to use the dedicated font information recorded in the DVD-ROM.

The voice processing unit 109 converts the voice data read from the DVD-ROM and the message data of the received voice into an analog voice signal, and outputs it from a speaker (not shown) connected to the analog voice signal. In addition, under the control of CPU 101, sound effects and music data that should be generated during the progress of the game are generated, and the corresponding voice is output from the speaker. Further, the voice processing unit 109, under the control of the CPU 101, converts the voice collected by the microphone (not shown) into a digital voice signal and generates voice data.

NIC 110 is for connecting the communication device 100 to a communication network 30 such as the Internet, and conforms to the 10BASE-T / 100BASE-T standard used when configuring a LAN, or uses a telephone line to connect to the Internet. Analog modem for connecting to, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) modem, ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) modem, cable modem for connecting to the Internet using a cable television line, etc., and these with CPU 101 It consists of an interface (not shown) that mediates.

In addition, the communication device 10 uses a large-capacity external storage device such as a hard disk so as to perform the same functions as the ROM 102, RAM 103, external memory 106, and DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107. It may be configured. Further, it is also possible to adopt a form in which a keyboard for accepting edit input of a character string from a user, a mouse for accepting various position designations and selection inputs, and the like are connected.

Further, instead of the communication device 10 of the present embodiment, a general computer (general-purpose personal computer or the like) can be used as the communication device. For example, a general computer has a CPU, RAM, ROM, DVD-ROM drive, and a NIC, and has an image processing unit having simpler functions than the communication device 10, like the communication device 10. In addition to having a hard disk as an external storage device, flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, magnetic tapes, and the like can be used. Also, instead of a controller, a keyboard, mouse, etc. can be used as an input device. Then, after installing the game program, when the program is executed, it functions as a communication device.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an outline configuration of the communication server 20 according to the present embodiment. The communication server 20 includes a control unit 201, a communication unit 202, and a storage unit 203.

The control unit 201 is composed of a CPU or the like, and controls each unit of the communication server 20 according to an OS, a program, or the like stored in the storage unit 203. For example, the control unit 201 controls the communication unit 202 to deliver the message data transmitted from the communication device 10 to each of the communication devices 10 included in the communication system 1.

The communication unit 202 is composed of a predetermined communication device such as a NIC, a router, a modem, and the like. The communication unit 202 communicates with each of the communication devices 10 connected to the communication network 30 under the control of the control unit 201.

The storage unit 203 is composed of a hard disk device, a storage device such as RAM that serves as a work area, and a storage device such as ROM. For example, the storage unit 203 stores in advance a program or OS for controlling the entire communication server 20 in a ROM, and stores the above-mentioned received message data or the like in a hard disk device or RAM.

In the present embodiment, the communication server 20 manages the progress of the network game played via the communication network 30, but a game server (not shown) may manage the progress of the network game. The content of the network game is not limited by the present invention. It does not have to be a game, and may be an arbitrary communication service such as an SNS (Social Networking Service) in which a plurality of users participate.

Next, the functional outline configuration of the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Each communication device 10 receives input of message data from the user and transmits it to the communication server 20 while executing a network game in the virtual space. Further, the communication server 20 delivers message data to the communication device 10 designated as the destination. In the following description, it is assumed that each player of the network game is each user of the communication device 10.

Although only one communication device 10 and one communication server 20 are shown in this figure in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, the drawings include a plurality of communication devices 10 and a plurality of communication servers 20. You may. When a plurality of communication servers 20 are provided, each communication server 20 may synchronize various information stored in the storage unit 203 at predetermined time intervals.

The message data is composed of data including at least one of arbitrary text data, image data, and voice data. The message data is transmitted from the communication device 10-1 operated by the player P1 to the communication device 10-2 operated by the player P2, or from the communication device 10-1 operated by the player P1 to a plurality of other players. Multicast that broadcasts to the communication devices 10-2, 10-3, ... operated by P2, P3, ..., and all players operate from the communication device 10-1 operated by player P1. It is distributed by a method such as a broadcast transmitted to the communication devices 10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-N. Here, in order to make the present invention easier to understand, as an example, message data will be delivered by broadcasting to each of the communication devices 10 operated by the players participating in the network game. However, the content of the present invention is not limited to broadcasting, and unicast, multicast, and other distribution methods may be used.

The communication server 20 includes a discrimination unit 401, a notification transmission unit 402, a message reception unit 406, and a distribution unit 407. Further, the communication device 10 includes a notification receiving unit 403, a message receiving unit 404, a message transmitting unit 405, and an output unit 408. Hereinafter, in order to make it easier to understand the processing performed by each of these parts, each configuration will be described in the order of processing of the communication processing of the communication system 1.

The determination unit 401 determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the communication devices 10. Each communication device 10 can transmit the message data input from the user to the communication server 20, but it is not possible to unconditionally transmit the message data at any timing during the execution of the network game. That is, for each communication device 10, the timing at which the transmission of message data is permitted or the timing at which transmission of message data is not permitted is determined by the determination unit 401. The control unit 201 functions as the discrimination unit 401.

For example, in a mahjong game, when a player makes reach, ron, tsumo, pong, chi, can, etc., only the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player who performed those actions is permitted, and the others are allowed. Do not allow the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player. Or conversely, it is determined that only the communication device 10 operated by the player who performed those actions, for example, the player who was ronned (transferred) is allowed, and the communication device 10 operated by the other player is not allowed. You may.

For example, in a baseball game, if a player's team or player character hits (or hits) a home run, reverses (or reverses), catches up with (or catches up with) a tie, fine play. If you do, an error occurs, or a player is replaced, only the message data from the communication device 10 operated by that player is allowed to be transmitted, and the message data from the communication device 10 operated by another player is transmitted. Determine not to allow. In addition, permission / non-permission can be determined when any event in the game occurs.

For example, in a soccer game, when half-time is reached, only the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player corresponding to the winning (or losing) team at that time is permitted, and the team is losing (or losing). It is determined that the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player corresponding to the (winning) team is not permitted. Permit / disapproval may be determined before the start of the game or within a predetermined time after the end of the game.

For example, in a group jump rope game, if a character operated by a certain player fails to jump and gets caught in a rope, message data is transmitted from the communication device 10 operated by the player corresponding to the failed character. Only is permitted, and it is determined that transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by another player is not permitted.

For example, in a music game in which multiple players form a session or compete for performance, if one player fails to play, only the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the failed player is permitted, and the other It is determined that the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player is not permitted. It may be determined that only the transmission of the message data from the communication device 10 operated by the player who has obtained the high score is permitted, and the transmission of the message data from the communication device 10 operated by the other player is not permitted.

In this way, the discriminating unit 401 permits the transmission of message data from the specific communication device 10 when a predetermined timing, stage, scene, or a predetermined event occurs in the network game, and other communication. Do not allow the transmission of message data from device 10. The content of the game is not limited by the present invention.

The notification transmitting unit 402 disallows the communication device 10 included in the communication system 1 to indicate that the communication device 10 determined by the discriminating unit 401 not to permit the transmission of the message data is not permitted to transmit the message data. Send a notification. That is, the control unit 201 controls the communication unit 202 to generate and transmit a packet including the disapproval notification to the communication device 10 determined by the control unit 201 to disallow the transmission of message data. The control unit 201 and the communication unit 202 cooperate to function as the notification transmission unit 402.

The disapproval notification includes information indicating a predetermined time (disapproval period) during which the transmission of message data is not permitted. For example, the disapproval period is specified as "X seconds after receiving (or transmitting) the disapproval notification", "time T1 to time T2", and the like. The disapproval period may be a fixed value or a variable value. That is, the notification transmission unit 402 may set a different time as the disallowed period depending on the type of timing, stage, scene, event, etc. during the network game. Furthermore, an unspecified period may be specified as the disapproval period, such as "until the next predetermined event occurs". If the disapproval period is always set to a fixed value, it is not necessary to include information indicating the disapproval period in the disapproval notification.

The notification receiving unit 403 receives the disapproval notification from the communication server 20, and inputs the received disapproval notification to the message receiving unit 404. That is, NIC 110 receives the packet containing the disapproval notification, and CPU 101 parses the packet to get the disapproval notification. The CPU 101 temporarily stores the disapproval notification in the RAM 103 in association with the received date and time. CPU 101, RAM 103, and NIC 110 work together to function as notification receiver 403.

The message receiving unit 404 accepts the input of message data from the player (user) when the notification receiving unit 403 has not received the disapproval notification. That is, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the disapproval notification has been received from the communication server 20, and if it is determined that the notification has not been received, the interface 104 receives the message data from the controller 105 and inputs the message data to the CPU 101. If the CPU 101 determines that the disapproval notification has not been received, the voice processing unit 109 converts the voice collected by the microphone into digital data and inputs it to the CPU 101. In this way, if the communication device 10 has not received the disapproval notification, the player of the communication device 10 can send a message to another player.

Further, the message receiving unit 404 accepts the input of the message data from the player when the above-mentioned predetermined time has elapsed since the last receiving the disapproval notification from the communication server 20. That is, even if the communication device 10 has received the disapproval notification, the player can send a message after a predetermined time has passed since the notification was received. The CPU 101, the interface 104, and the voice processing unit 109 work together to function as the message receiving unit 404.

The player can input arbitrary characters, numbers, symbols, images, etc. as message data using the controller 105, and can also input voice as message data using a microphone. In the present embodiment, the player is configured to be able to input both characters and the like using the controller 105 and voice input using the microphone, but is configured to be able to input only one of them. You may. Further, the communication device 10 may further include a camera for photographing the appearance of the player and the like so that a moving image or a still image photographed by the camera can be input as message data.

The message transmitting unit 405 transmits the message data received from the user by the message receiving unit 404 to the communication server 20. That is, the CPU 101 encrypts the message data such as text data, image data, voice data, and the identification information of the communication device 10 as the source by a predetermined encryption algorithm to generate a packet, and the NIC 110 Is controlled and sent to the communication server 20. The identification information is a terminal number, a terminal name, an IP (Internet Protocol) address, a MAC (Media Access Control) address, or a player's membership number, a user name, a nickname, an e-mail address, etc. assigned to the communication device 10 in advance. is there. The encryption method and data format are not limited by the present invention. CPU 101 and NIC 110 work together to function as message transmitter 405.

Note that the message data is not transmitted to all the communication devices 10 operated by the player of the network game, but only to the communication device 10 operated by a specific player, or the communication operated by a player belonging to a specific group. When transmitting only to the device 10, the message transmitting unit 405 may further transmit information indicating the destination (identification information of the communication device 10 as the destination) in association with the message data.

The message receiving unit 406 receives the message data from the communication device 10. That is, the communication unit 202 receives the packet containing the message data, and the control unit 201 analyzes and decodes the packet to acquire the message data. The control unit 201 stores the acquired message data in the storage unit 203. For example, the control unit 201 stores the received message data, the date and time of the reception, and the above-mentioned identification information indicating the source of the received message data in the storage unit 203 in association with each other. The storage unit 203 stores the message data received from each of the communication devices 10. The control unit 201, the communication unit 202, and the storage unit 203 cooperate to function as the message receiving unit 406.

The distribution unit 407 distributes the message data received and stored by the message reception unit 406 to each of the communication devices 10. That is, the control unit 201 reads the message data received and stored in the storage unit 203, generates a packet including the read message data, controls the communication unit 202, and transmits the packet to each of the communication devices 10. If a destination is specified, message data is sent only to the specified destination. In the present embodiment, the message data is simultaneously delivered to each of the communication devices 10 operated by the players participating in the network game. The control unit 201, the communication unit 202, and the storage unit 203 cooperate to function as the distribution unit 407.

Here, the distribution unit 407 does not distribute the same message data to the communication device 10 of the transmission source of the message data received by the message reception unit 406, but distributes the same message data to the communication device 10 other than the communication device 10 of the transmission source. It may be configured as follows. For example, the distribution unit 407 acquires identification information indicating the source stored in the storage unit 203 in association with the received message data. Then, the distribution unit 407 transmits the message data to the communication device 10 other than the transmission source communication device 10 indicated by the acquired identification information among the communication devices 10 connected to the communication network 30. That is, the distribution unit 407 may distribute the received message data to at least the communication device 10 other than the communication device 10 that has transmitted the message data, and may not distribute the received message data to the transmission source communication device 10. For example, in the case of delivering a voice message in real time such as voice chat, or in the case of delivering a video message in real time, a user who inputs a voice or video message delivers the voice or video input by himself / herself. Often there is no need to receive and re-listen or review. Users can avoid the hassle of re-listening and reviewing their messages. The server can reduce the load of the delivery process by limiting the delivery destination of the message data.

The distribution unit 407 repeatedly executes a process of monitoring whether or not there is untransmitted message data, and if there is untransmitted message data, distributing it to each of the communication devices 10. At that time, the distribution unit 407 distributes the message data by FIFO (First In First Out).

The output unit 408 receives the message data delivered from the communication server 20 and outputs it to a monitor, a speaker, or the like. That is, the CPU 101 analyzes the packet including the message data received by the NIC 110 to acquire the message data, and if the message data is text data or image data, the image processing unit 108 displays the text or image on the monitor. If it is audio data, the audio processing unit 109 outputs the audio to the speaker. The CPU 101, image processing unit 108, audio processing unit 109, and NIC 110 work together to function as output unit 408.

(Registration of message data) Next, the process of transmitting message data to the communication server 20 by each of the communication devices 10 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6. For example, the communication device 10 receives an input of message data from a user during a network game and transmits it to the communication server 20. Message data to be delivered to each communication device 10 is registered in the communication server 20. In the following description, it is assumed that each communication device 10 executes a network mahjong game, and the communication server 20 receives and distributes a message from each player participating in the mahjong game.

First, when a predetermined timing, stage, or scene of a mahjong game is reached or a predetermined event occurs, whether or not the determination unit 401 of the communication server 20 permits the transmission of message data for each of the communication devices 10. (Step S501). For example, when one of the players wins (goes up) in the mahjong game, the discriminating unit 401 permits the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the winning player, and transmits message data from other players. Is determined to be disallowed.

Here, when there are a plurality of winning players, the transmission of message data may be permitted for all the winning players, the mutual relationship between the players such as parent or child, the total result for each player, and the degree of victory or defeat. Etc. may be compared to determine the priority, and only the winning player with the highest priority may be allowed to send the message data.

In addition, "players other than the winning player" who are not allowed to send message data are not only defeated players (players who have been transferred or have reduced points), but also watch the game without participating in direct play. Includes only spectator players.

When it is determined that the transmission of the message data is permitted (step S501; YES), the message receiving unit 406 waits for the reception of the message data from each of the communication devices 10 (FIG. 6, step S601). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transmission of the message data is not permitted (step S501; NO), the notification transmission unit 402 transmits a disapproval notification to the communication device 10 determined not to be permitted (step S502). If there are a plurality of communication devices 10 determined not to be permitted, a disapproval notification is sent to all the communication devices 10 that are not permitted.

The notification receiving unit 403 of the communication device 10 determined not to be permitted receives the disapproval notification from the communication server 20 (step S503).

The message receiving unit 404 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the last permission notification was received from the communication server 20 (step S504). In other words, the message receiving unit 404 determines whether or not the current date and time is included in the disallowed period.

Here, since the determination unit 401 of the communication server 20 determines permission / non-permission based on the progress of the network game, the disapproval notification may be transmitted to the same communication device 10 a plurality of times. For example, a second disapproval notice may be sent before the disapproval period specified in the first disapproval notice expires. In such a case, the message receiving unit 404 determines whether or not the disapproval period specified by the one closest to the current date and time among all the disapproval notifications received has expired.

If the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S504; NO), the message receiving unit 404 does not accept the input of the message data until the predetermined time has elapsed (step S505). For example, in a configuration such as voice chat that accepts input of voice message data, the message reception unit 404 turns off the microphone that captures voice or discards the captured voice data. For example, in a configuration that accepts input of message data by video, the message receiving unit 404 turns off the camera that captures an image or discards the captured video data. For example, in a configuration that accepts input of message data in characters or the like, the message reception unit 404 disables key input such as characters, turns off the message input form, or discards the data input in the input form. ..

On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed (step S504; YES), the message receiving unit 404 accepts the input of the message data from the user (FIG. 6, step S602). For example, in a configuration that accepts voice message data input, the message reception unit 404 turns on a microphone that captures voice, converts the acquired voice into digital voice data by an A / D converter, and generates voice message data. To do. For example, in a configuration that accepts input of message data by video, the message reception unit 404 turns on a camera that captures an image, converts the acquired image into digital image data, and generates message data by video. For example, in a configuration that accepts input of message data in characters or the like, the message reception unit 404 enables key input of characters or the like, turns on a message input form, and generates message data in characters or the like.

Then, the message transmission unit 405 transmits the generated message data to the communication server 20 (step S603).

The message receiving unit 406 of the communication server 20 receives the message data from the communication device 10 (step S604) and stores it in the storage unit 203 (step S605). The message receiving unit 406 stores the received message data, the date and time of the reception, and the information indicating the source of the message data in association with each other. If a destination is specified, further information indicating the destination of the message data is stored.

In this way, the storage unit 203 of the communication server 20 stores the message data transmitted from each of the communication devices 10. If no disapproval notice has been sent to any communication device 10, or if the current date and time is not included in any of the disapproval notices sent to communication device 10 during the specified disapproval period, then all communication devices 10 Since the transmission of the message data from is permitted, the message data transmitted from the arbitrary communication device 10 is stored in the storage unit 203. On the other hand, when the current date and time is included in the specified disapproval period in the disapproval notification sent to any of the communication devices 10, only the message data transmitted from the permitted communication device 10 is stored in the storage unit 203. ..

(Delivery of message data) Next, the process of delivering message data to the communication device 10 by the communication server 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. If the message data stored in the storage unit 203 is undelivered, the control unit 201 of the communication server 20 delivers the message data by the following processing.

First, the control unit 201 of the communication server 20 determines whether or not any of the message data stored in the storage unit 203 has not been delivered (step S701). For example, when the message data is stored in step S605, the control unit 201 sets the delivery flag indicating whether or not the message has been sent to 0 (undelivered) and stores the message data in association with the message data. Then, after delivering the message data as described later, the delivery flag is updated to "1 (delivered)". In this way, it is possible to determine whether the message data has been delivered or not delivered by referring to the delivery flag. Alternatively, the control unit 201 may store only the undelivered message data in the storage unit 203, and delete the delivered message data from the storage unit 203 after the delivery is completed. In this case, the delivery flag can be omitted.

If there is no undelivered message data (step S701; NO), the control unit 201 ends the communication process. In this case, the message data is not delivered to each communication device 10.

On the other hand, when there is undelivered message data (step S701; YES), the control unit 201 reads the undelivered message data from the storage unit 203, and reads the read message data to each communication device 10 (or a specified destination). Send to the communication device 10) (step S702).

The output unit 408 of each communication device 10 receives the message data transmitted from the communication server 20 (step S703), and outputs the message indicated by the message data to a monitor, a speaker, or the like (step S704). If it is voice message data, the output unit 408 decodes the voice data, which is the message data, and outputs the voice to the speaker. If the message data is characters or images, the output unit 408 displays the characters or images on the monitor.

According to the present embodiment, the disapproval notice is not transmitted to any communication device 10, or the current date and time is not included in the disapproval period specified by any disapproval notification transmitted to the communication device 10. In this case, the message data transmitted from the arbitrary communication device 10 is delivered to each communication device 10. On the other hand, if the current date and time is included in the specified disapproval period in the disapproval notification sent to any of the communication devices 10, only the message data transmitted from the permitted communication device 10 is delivered to each communication device 10. To.

For example, in a mahjong game, when one player P1 transfers to another player P2 and goes up (ron), only the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the winning player (ron player) P1 is allowed. You can decide to disallow sending message data from other players. In situations where it hasn't been settled yet (no one is up), all players can send a message at any time. However, when the player P1 transfers to the player P2, the discriminating unit 401 permits the transmission of message data only to the communication device 10 operated by the player P1, and the player P2, P3, ..., PN (including the spectator player). ) Does not allow the transmission of message data from the communication device 10. That is, if the player P1 wins, only the player P1 can speak for a predetermined time, and other players cannot speak. The winning player can give impressions, explanations, and declarations of victory until a predetermined time has passed, so that he / she can immerse himself in a sense of superiority and increase the taste of the game.

For example, in a mahjong game, when one player P1 transfers to another player P2 and goes up (ron), only the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by the defeated player (roned player) P2 is allowed. , You can decide to disallow sending message data from other players. All players can send a message at any time when it is not yet settled. However, when player P1 transfers to player P2 and goes up, the discriminator 401 allows only the communication device 10 operated by the losing player P2 to send message data, and players P1, P3, ..., PN (audience player). Do not allow the transmission of message data from the communication device 10 operated by). That is, when the player P1 wins, only the losing player P2 must speak for a predetermined time, and no other player can speak. The defeated player has to make impressions, excuses, apology interviews, defeat declarations, etc. until the specified time has passed, so that other players can be immersed in a sense of superiority and the taste of the game is increased. Also, if you lose, you will have to say something, which will increase the tension of the game and make the game more realistic.

In the present embodiment, the notification transmission unit 402 transmits the disapproval notification only to the communication device 10 that does not permit the transmission of the message data. However, the disapproval notification is sent to all communication devices 10 including the identification information for identifying the communication device 10 (or the communication device 10 that permits the transmission of message data) that does not allow the transmission of message data. It may be configured to do so. For example, in the disapproval notification, "disallow transmission of message data from a communication device 10 other than the communication device 10 with the terminal name Q1 for a predetermined time" or "only send message data from the communication device 10 with the terminal name Q1 for a predetermined time". Information indicating "permit" is included, and this disapproval notice is transmitted to all communication devices 10. Then, the message receiving unit 404 compares and matches the identification information of the unauthorized communication device 10 indicated by the disapproval notification received by the notification receiving unit 403 with its own (received communication device 10) identification information. If so, the processes after step S504 are executed, and if they do not match, the process proceeds to step S602 and the input of message data is accepted. In this way, the process of sending the disapproval notification by the communication server 20 can be simplified. Further, since all the communication devices 10 can recognize which communication device 10 is disapproved, it is possible to diversify the game production during the disapproval period. For example, CPU 101 of the communication device 10 that has been disapproved displays on the monitor, "Please see the player with the terminal name Q1 will hold a press conference from now on," before entering the disapproval period. Can be notified to the player.

In the present embodiment, the distribution unit 407 transmits the message data stored in the storage unit 203 to each communication device 10, but does not necessarily distribute the message data after receiving all of the message data from the beginning to the end. You may. That is, as in streaming playback, message data may be received and delivered in parallel. For example, when delivering voice message data, the communication device 10 accepts the input of the message data until the predetermined time elapses, sends the message data after the predetermined time elapses, and the communication server 20 receives all the message data. It will take more time if it is delivered after it is finished. Therefore, when the amount of data is large or it takes time to finish delivering all the message data, the message transmitter 405 fragmentes the message data for a predetermined time like a streaming playback or a one-way telephone. It is desirable that the message receiving unit 406 sequentially combines and stores the message data received in fragments, and the distribution unit 407 sequentially transmits the stored message data.

In this way, according to the present embodiment, the winning player who is permitted to send the message data can send the message exclusively for a predetermined time, so that each player tries to get as high a score and a good result as possible and goes to the game. Motivation increases. The defeated player who is allowed to send the message data will send (must send) the message exclusively for a predetermined time, so each player will try to get as high a score and good result as possible, and the game will be tense. Can be made. In addition, not only winning players and losing players, but also players who were not involved in winning or losing, spectator players, etc., did not need to perform special operations such as displaying the result screen, and "who won (lost)". ) Will be clearly grasped each time. Within a predetermined time when only the parties can send the message exclusively, interrupting remarks by anyone other than the parties are not allowed, so that the message from the parties can be made known to each player. The communication system 1 can inform each player of the results and the player's message without difficulty according to the progress of the game.

(Embodiment 2) Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication server 20 changes the length of the disapproval period during which the transmission of message data is not permitted depending on the progress of the network game and the game development. It should be noted that only the configuration different from the above-described embodiment will be described in detail, and the description of the same configuration portion will be omitted.

When the determination unit 401 determines in step S501 that transmission of message data is not permitted (step S501; NO), the determination unit 401 determines the disapproval period depending on the progress of the game and the like. Then, the notification transmission unit 402 transmits a disapproval notification including information indicating the determined disapproval period to the communication device 10 that does not permit the transmission of the message data.

For example, in the above-mentioned mahjong game, when the player P1 transfers (rons) to the player P2, the discriminating unit 401 changes the length of the disapproval period based on the bottle, the mark, the score, the parent-child relationship, and the like. FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the conditions to be satisfied and the length of the disapproval period. For example, if the parent player goes up with 3 bottles and 40 marks, the length of the disapproval period will be T2 x C2 + T5. Then, the determination unit 401 transmits a disapproval notification including information indicating the determined disapproval period to the communication device 10. The winning player P1 can only speak for himself during the calculated disapproval period, such as a winning comment, and the other players cannot speak during the disapproval period and only listen.

Not limited to mahjong games, any game that competes for points between players, based on the size of numerical parameters that represent the number of goals scored, the number of goals scored, the number of wins and losses, the win / loss rate, the number of items possessed, the game time, etc. You can decide the period of disapproval. For example, the disapproval period is decided based on the results within the specified period (total number of goals scored, total score rate, total number of wins and losses, total win / loss rate, ranking, number of games, etc.) such as "last month". You may. Further, the disapproval period may be determined based on the type of a predetermined timing, stage, scene, event, etc. in the network game, not limited to the numerical value.

For example, in the above-mentioned group skipping rope game, when player P1 gets caught in a rope and the game ends or the play is interrupted, the longer the elapsed time from the start of the skipping rope to the end (interruption) of the game, the longer the disapproval period. The longer it is and the shorter the elapsed time, the shorter the disapproval period. In the duration Ta of the skipping rope game, the time to disallow is set to T1, and in the duration Tb (Ta &lt;Tb), the time to disallow is set to T2 (T1 &lt;T2). FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example of the correspondence between the duration of the skipping rope game and the length of the disapproval period. Although it is proportional in this figure, it can be determined by any function. Then, the determination unit 401 transmits a disapproval notification including information indicating the determined disapproval period to the communication device 10. The failing player P1 must only say an apology comment during the calculated disapproval period, and no other player can speak during the disapproval period.

The storage unit 203 stores in advance the parameters that define the correspondence as illustrated in FIGS. 8 (a) and 8 (b), and the control unit 201 appropriately reads out the parameters that define the correspondence from the storage unit 203. And calculate the length of the disallowed period.

Not limited to the group skipping rope game, the disapproval period can be determined based on the duration from the start to the end of any game, the duration of any stage, scene, event, etc. in the game. For example, in a tennis game or a table tennis game, if the rally is settled after a long rally, the disapproval period is lengthened, and if it is short, the disapproval period is shortened. For example, in a fighting game, if it is a good match that takes a long time to defeat the opponent, the disapproval period is lengthened, and if it is short, the disapproval period is shortened.

Also in this embodiment, the disapproval notification includes the identification information for identifying the communication device 10 that does not permit (or permits) the transmission of the message data, and the disapproval notification is transmitted to all the communication devices 10. You may.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the winning player who is permitted to send the message data can send the message exclusively for a long time as the number of points and the like is increased, in order to obtain as high a score and a good result as possible. Therefore, the motivation for the game increases. The defeated player who is allowed to send message data will send (must send) a message exclusively for a long time as the number of points is small, and he is nervous about the game because he tries to get as high a score and good results as possible. You can give it a feeling. In addition, not only winning players and losing players, but also players who were not involved in winning or losing and spectator players do not need to perform special operations such as displaying the result screen, and "who wins and how much" You will be able to clearly grasp "whether you lost" each time. The communication system 1 can inform each player of the results and the player's message without difficulty according to the progress of the game.

(Embodiment 3) Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the determination unit 401 of the communication server 20 permits transmission of message data depending on whether or not a predetermined condition given to each communication device 10 is satisfied (whether or not the task has been achieved) in the network game. / It differs from the above-described embodiment in that it is not permitted. It should be noted that only the configuration different from the above-described embodiment will be described in detail, and the description of the same configuration portion will be omitted. It will be described in detail below.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration of the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 of the present embodiment. As shown in this figure, the communication device 10 further includes an operation input receiving unit 901 and an operation input transmitting unit 902, and the communication server 20 further includes an operation input receiving unit 903.

The operation input reception unit 901 receives the operation input of the game by the player of the network game (user of the communication device 10). For example, in the above-mentioned group skipping rope game, the controller 105 receives an operation input for specifying the jump timing and the jump height from the player and inputs the operation input to the CPU 101. The CPU 101 stores information indicating the contents of the operation input (hereinafter referred to as "operation input information") in the RAM 103. The CPU 101, RAM 103, and controller 105 work together to function as the operation input reception unit 901.

The operation input transmission unit 902 transmits the operation input information received by the operation input reception unit 901 to the communication server 20. CPU 101, RAM 103, and NIC 110 work together to function as the operation input transmitter 902.

The operation input receiving unit 903 receives the operation input information from each of the communication devices 10 and stores the operation input information in the storage unit 203. The control unit 201, the communication unit 202, and the storage unit 203 cooperate to function as the operation input receiving unit 903.

In step S501 described above, the determination unit 401 determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the communication devices 10 based on whether or not the task assigned in advance has been achieved. The determination unit 401 compares the information indicating the operation input received by the operation input reception unit 903 with the predetermined condition (problem) assigned to the communication device 10 and determines whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied. , If the predetermined conditions are not met (the task has not been achieved), it is determined that the communication device 10 that has achieved the task does not allow the transmission of message data, and the other communication devices 10 allow the transmission of message data. To determine.

The task is, for example, in the above-mentioned group skipping rope game, "jumping so as not to get caught in the rope". When the operation input receiving unit 903 receives an instruction input from the communication device 10 for jumping so that the character operated by the player does not get caught in the rope, the discriminating unit 401 "achieves the task" for the communication device 10. Is determined. On the other hand, when the operation input receiving unit 903 receives an instruction input from the communication device 10 that jumps so that the character operated by the player is caught in the rope, or the operation input receiving unit 903 does not receive any instruction input. If so, the discriminating unit 401 determines that the communication device 10 has "not achieved the task". In this case, the communication device 10 operated by the player caught on the rope (the task was not achieved) is permitted, and the other communication devices 10 (the task is achieved) are not permitted. In other words, only the player caught on the rope will send the message. For example, a player who gets caught in a rope and causes trouble to others is given the opportunity to make excuses, apologies, excuses, and so on.

For example, in a mahjong game, the issue is "not to be transferred from another player". When the operation input receiving unit 903 receives the instruction input to be transferred to the player P2 from the player P1 from the communication device 10, the discriminating unit 401 "achieves the task" for the communication device 10 operated by a player other than the transferred player P2. It is determined that "has been done". On the other hand, it is determined that the communication device 10 operated by the transferred player P2 has "the task has not been achieved". In this case, the communication device 10 operated by the transferred player P2 (the task has not been achieved) is permitted, and the other communication devices 10 (the task has been achieved) are not permitted. In other words, only the transferred player P2 will send the message. For example, the losing player P2 is given the opportunity to make excuses, apologies, excuses, and defeat declarations.

For example, in a mahjong game, the task of "the player (self) does not rise (do not win)" may be set as an issue. When the operation input receiving unit 903 receives the instruction input that the player P1 raises with a tsumo or the instruction input that the other player P2 raises with a ron from the communication device 10, the discrimination unit 401 communicates with the winning player P1. It is determined that the task has not been achieved for the device 10. On the other hand, it is determined that the communication device 10 operated by a player other than the player P1 has "achieved the task". In this case, the communication device 10 operated by the winning player P1 (the task has not been achieved) is permitted, and the other communication devices 10 (the task has been achieved) are not permitted. In other words, only the winning player P1 will send the message. For example, the winning player P1 is given the opportunity to brag, commentary, and declare victory.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, the player who is allowed to send the message data "failed to complete the task" will send (must send) a message to another player, and avoids it. You can give the game a sense of tension by trying to accomplish the tasks as much as possible. In addition, not only players who have achieved or could not achieve, but also spectator players who have not been involved in success or failure do not need to perform special operations such as displaying the results screen. You will be able to clearly grasp "whether you could not achieve it (whether you could achieve it)" each time. The communication system 1 can inform each player of the results and the player's message without difficulty according to the progress of the game.

(Embodiment 4) Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication device 10 changes the display method of the screen depending on whether or not transmission of message data is permitted. This embodiment can be used in combination with any of the above-described embodiments, but here, a configuration in combination with the first embodiment will be described. It should be noted that only the configuration different from the above-described embodiment will be described in detail, and the description of the same configuration portion will be omitted. It will be described in detail below.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing each configuration of the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 of the present embodiment. The communication device 10 further includes an image storage unit 1001.

The image storage unit 1001 stores in advance the identification information of each communication device 10 constituting the communication system 1 and the image data of a predetermined character object in association with each other. The predetermined character object is typically a character object called an avatar, which is a player's alter ego in the virtual space. However, the image data may be a still image or a moving image. The format of the image data is arbitrary, and may be any predetermined format that can be normally read by the CPU 101 and displayed on the monitor. The external memory 106 functions as the image storage unit 1001.

The output unit 408 reads the image data from the image storage unit 1001 and displays it on the monitor. Here, the output unit 408 changes the display method of the image data depending on whether or not the transmission of the message data is permitted.

That is, if (a) the notification receiving unit 403 has not received the disapproval notification from the communication server 20, or (b) a predetermined time has elapsed since the last disapproval notification was received, the output unit 408 , Each of the image data of a predetermined character object stored in the image storage unit 1001 is displayed in a predetermined display format. These are the cases where there is currently no communication device 10 that cannot send message data. For example, the output unit 408 displays the read image data as it is at a predetermined position.

On the other hand, if it is neither (a) nor (b), that is, if there is a communication device 10 that cannot transmit message data, the image data corresponding to the identification information for which message data transmission is permitted is emphasized. To display. The image data corresponding to the identification information for which the transmission of the message data is not permitted is displayed in a predetermined display format.

FIGS. 11 (a) to 11 (c) are configuration examples of screens displayed on the monitor by the output unit 408. FIG. 11A is a display example in the normal mode, that is, in a state where transmission of message data is permitted for all communication devices 10. On the other hand, FIGS. 11 (b) and 11 (c) are display examples in a state where transmission of message data is permitted only for any communication device 10. An example of this is the "apology mode" in which only the communication device 10 operated by the defeated player of a certain network game is allowed to transmit message data.

To highlight the display, specifically, as shown in Fig. 11 (b), enlarge the vertical and horizontal size by the image data 1100 corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 that is permitted to transmit message data. The other image data is displayed in a predetermined size without being enlarged. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 11 (c), the vertical and horizontal sizes of the image data 1100 corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is enlarged or displayed in the original size. Then, the vertical and horizontal sizes are reduced and displayed so that the other image data is relatively small.

In addition, there are various methods. For example, only the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is zoomed in and displayed, and the other image data is not displayed. The magnification is arbitrary. However, it does not necessarily have to be enlarged, and all the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is not permitted may not be displayed. Alternatively, the image may be reduced instead of enlarged, as long as the apparent size of the image is relatively different.

For example, only the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is intentionally displayed by inserting "mosaic", "blurring", "blindfold", etc., and other image data. Is displayed as it is in the predetermined display format. This is useful for displaying the character object of the defeated player.

For example, the color of the image data is displayed in color only for the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted, and the other image data is displayed in black and white or monochrome. Change the color tone, brightness, etc.

For example, only the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is surrounded by a more prominent frame such as a thick red frame, and the other image data is displayed as it is in a predetermined display format.

For example, only the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is blinked, and the other image data is displayed as it is in a predetermined display format.

For example, only the image data corresponding to the identification information of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is permitted is changed to a visually conspicuous motion such as "raising the hand", and the other image data is displayed in a predetermined display format. Display (in motion without raising your hand). In this case, the image storage unit 1001 stores the first image data to be displayed when the permission is granted and the second image data to be displayed when the permission is not granted, and the output unit 408 stores the permission / The image data to be read by disapproval may be selected. The motion is not limited to "raising your hand" but is free.

These are an exemplary list of techniques for highlighting and may be highlighted by other techniques. Some or all of these may be used in combination.

According to the present embodiment, the display method of the image data is changed depending on whether the transmission of the message data is permitted or not, so that "who won (lost)" is further clarified each time. You will be able to grab it. For example, when sending and receiving message data by voice, not only the voice is played but also the image is displayed, so make each player aware of the game progress and game results so that they can be easily grasped both audibly and visually. Can be done.

Further, the degree of emphasis may be changed depending on the progress of the game, the development of the game, and the degree of victory or defeat. By changing the degree of emphasis, it becomes possible to more clearly grasp "who won (or lost)" each time. For example, in the above-mentioned mahjong game, when the player P1 transfers to the player P2 and goes up, the output unit 408 changes the scaling ratio based on the bottle, the mark, the score, and the like. The larger these values are, the larger the scaling ratio is. The more points you score, the greater the gain (damage), so the more points you score, the larger the scaling ratio will be displayed. For example, in the above-mentioned group skipping rope game, when the player P1 is caught in a rope and the game ends or the play is interrupted, the output unit 408 sets the scaling factor of the image data from the start of the skipping rope to the end (interruption) of the game. ) Is determined to be relatively large as the elapsed time is long, and is determined to be relatively small as the elapsed time is short. The longer the elapsed time, the heavier the responsibility, so the longer the elapsed time, the greater the scaling ratio, and the weight of the responsibility is displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

(Embodiment 5) Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. This embodiment differs from each of the above-described embodiments in that the above-mentioned non-permission period can be extended. It will be described in detail below. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 of the present embodiment. As shown in this figure, the communication device 10 further includes a request receiving unit 1201 and a request transmitting unit 1202, and the communication server 20 further includes a request receiving unit 1203.

The request reception unit 1201 receives a request from the user to extend the above-mentioned predetermined time (disapproval period) in which the transmission of message data is restricted. CPU 101 and interface 104 work together to function as request reception unit 1201.

However, it is assumed that the request reception unit 1201 of the communication device 10 for which the transmission of message data is not permitted accepts the request for extending this predetermined time. In other words, the request receiving unit 1201 of the communication device 10 that transmitted the message data during the disallowed period does not accept the request. A player who receives (sees) message data during the disapproval period can request to extend the disapproval period.

The request transmission unit 1202 transmits information indicating the request received by the request reception unit 1201 (hereinafter referred to as request information) to the communication server 20. CPU 101 and NIC 110 work together to function as request transmitter 1202.

The request receiving unit 1203 receives the request information from each of the communication devices 10. The control unit 201 and the communication unit 202 cooperate to function as the request reception unit 1203.

The determination unit 401 sends a message based on the total number of request information received by the request reception unit 1203 and the total number of communication devices 10 connected to the communication network 30 (total number N of communication devices 10 included in the communication system 1). It is further determined whether or not to extend the time for restricting the transmission of data (disapproval period).

Specifically, the determination unit 401 determines whether or not the total number of request information has reached a majority of the total number N of the communication devices 10. That is, it determines whether the percentage of players who want to extend is greater than 50%. However, it does not have to be a majority, and a majority vote may be used to determine whether or not the ratio is larger than an arbitrary predetermined value. It is desirable that one communication device 10 can transmit request information to the communication server 20 only once. In addition, it is desirable to set a limit on the time during which the request can be made, to enable the request information received by the request receiving unit 1203 within a predetermined reception time after starting the reception of the request, and to invalidate the other information.

The length of time to be extended may be the same as the time specified in the first disapproval notice, the first time is T1, the second time is T2, ..., the i time is Ti, (i is 1 or more). It may be a predetermined time according to the number of times, such as (integer of).

The determination unit 401 may extend the extension time as the total number of request information increases. The determination unit 401 may lengthen the extension time as the ratio of the total number of request information to the total number of communication devices 10 increases.

When the notification transmission unit 402 determines that the extension is to be extended by the determination unit 401, the notification transmission unit 402 retransmits the disapproval notification indicating that the transmission of the message data is not permitted to the communication device 10 that last transmitted the disapproval notification.

Here, when the length of the disapproval period is made variable according to the total number or the ratio instead of a predetermined value, the notification transmission unit 402 transmits a disapproval notification including information indicating the extension time of the disapproval period. do it.

Next, the communication processing performed by the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This flowchart is a continuation of the flowchart described in the first embodiment.

First, the request reception unit 1201 receives input of a request for extending the disapproval period from the player of the network game (user of the communication device 10) (step S1301). For example, in step S704, after outputting the message data from the communication device 10 that is permitted to send the message data during the disapproval period, the request receiving unit 1201 of the communication device 10 that is not permitted other than that is determined. Accept extension requests.

The request transmission unit 1202 determines whether or not there is a request for extending the disapproval period (step S1302). If there is no request (step S1302; NO), the message receiving unit 404 accepts the input of the message data (step S603) as in the above embodiment. Subsequent processing is the same as above. On the other hand, when there is a request (step S1302; YES), the request transmission unit 1202 transmits request information indicating a request for extending the disapproval period to the communication server 20 (step S1303).

The request receiving unit 1203 receives the request information from the communication device 10 (step S1304), and inputs the request information to the determining unit 401.

The determination unit 401 determines whether or not to extend the disapproval period (step S1305). Since the request receiving unit 1203 can similarly receive request information from all (N) communication devices 10 included in the communication system 1, it may receive not only one request information but also a plurality of request information. For example, the determination unit 401 determines whether or not the total number of request information has reached a majority of the total number N of the communication devices 10, and if it reaches the majority, it determines that it will be extended (if it is 50% or more). If not (less than 50%), it is determined that it will not be extended. Or decide by majority vote.

If it is determined not to extend the disallowed period (step S1305; NO), the process returns to step S601 and waits for message data to be received. The subsequent processing is the same as above. On the other hand, if it is determined that the disapproval period is extended (step S1305; YES), the process proceeds to step S502, and the notification transmission unit 402 transmits the disapproval notification again.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the player can request the message to be re-sent, and if a large number of players similarly request the message, the message can be re-sent, for example, by a majority vote.

For example, in the above-mentioned group skipping rope game, only the player P1 who gets caught in the rope and causes trouble to others is allowed to send a message as an opportunity to make excuses, apologies, excuses, etc., and the player P1 receives the message. Suppose you sent. More than half of the other players P2, P3, ..., PN who heard (seen) this were not convinced because of "not sincere" or "not reflecting" and requested further comments. If so, the communication server 20 again allows only player P1 to send messages. Player P1 sends the message again. Such processing is repeated until the communication server 20 determines that the period is not extended. Communication system 1 has not only a function as a mere network game but also a function as a communication tool through a game.

For example, in the above-mentioned mahjong game, only the winning player is allowed to send a message for a predetermined time, and in response to this, a message explaining the game is sent. If the specified time ends while the message is being spoken (written) and is interrupted halfway, other players can request an extension of the time. If a large number of players make a request, they will be allowed to send the message again, the winning player will be able to speak (write) the continuation of the game description, and the other players will be able to hear (see) the continuation.

(Embodiment 6) Next, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. In each of the above embodiments, the communication server 20 does not send a "permission notice" to the communication device 10 that "allows" the transmission of the message, but "disallows" the communication device 10 that "disallows" the transmission of the message. Sending a "notification". This is because many of the widely used messaging systems, chats, bulletin boards, etc. have specifications that allow users to freely write and speak without explicitly receiving a permission notification if user authentication is correctly received. .. Therefore, in each of the above embodiments, any player can freely write and speak as long as the disapproval notice is not received or the current period is not the disapproval period. Of course, as described below, it can be configured to issue a "permission notice" instead of a "non-permission notice".

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of the communication device 10 and the communication server 20 of the present embodiment. The difference from the first embodiment is that the notification transmitting unit 402 transmits a permission notification instead of the disapproval notification. It should be noted that only the configuration different from the above-described embodiment will be described in detail, and the description of the same configuration portion will be omitted. It will be described in detail below.

The notification transmission unit 402 sends a permission notification indicating that the communication device 10 included in the communication system 1 is permitted to transmit the message data to the communication device 10 determined to be permitted to transmit the message data by the determination unit 401. Send. That is, the control unit 201 controls the communication unit 202 and transmits the packet including the permission notification to the communication device 10 for which the control unit 201 determines that the transmission of the message data is permitted.

The permission notification includes information indicating a predetermined time (permission period) for permitting the transmission of message data. For example, the permission period is specified as "X seconds after receiving (or sending) the permission notification", "time T1 to time T2", and the like. The permission period may be a fixed value or a variable value. That is, the notification transmission unit 402 may set a different time as the permission period depending on the type of timing, stage, scene, event, etc. during the network game. Furthermore, an unspecified period may be specified as the permission period, such as "until the next predetermined event occurs". If the permission period is always fixed, it is not necessary to include information indicating the permission period in the permission notification.

When the determination unit 401 determines that the transmission of the message data is permitted even after the expiration of the permission period, the notification transmission unit 402 transmits the permission notification again before the permission period expires. So to speak, it is a license renewal. On the other hand, when the determination unit 401 determines that the transmission of message data is not permitted after the expiration of the permission period, the notification transmission unit 402 does not transmit the permission notification. Therefore, after the expiration, the message transmission unit 405 of the communication device 10 is used. Will not be able to send message data.

The notification receiving unit 403 receives the permission notification from the communication server 20, and inputs the received permission notification to the message receiving unit 404.

The message receiving unit 404 receives the input of the message data from the player (user) when the notification receiving unit 403 receives the permission notification whose current date and time is specified in the permission period. That is, even if the communication device 10 has received the permission notification, the player cannot send the message if a predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the permission notification.

(Registration of message data) Next, the process of transmitting message data to the communication server 20 by each of the communication devices 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, the determination unit 401 determines whether or not to allow transmission of message data for each of the communication devices 10 (step S1501).

For example, in the above-mentioned group jump rope game, it is determined that all communication devices 10 are allowed to transmit message data for a predetermined time before starting the skipping rope or during the skipping rope. When the skipping rope is still ongoing without any failure and the transmission of the message data is continuously permitted, the determination unit 401 determines that the transmission of the message data for a predetermined time is further permitted for all the communication devices 10. On the other hand, if any of the character objects operated by the player is caught in the rope and fails to jump, it is determined that the communication device 10 operated by the failed player is permitted and the other communication devices 10 are not permitted.

If the transmission of message data is not permitted (step S1501; NO), the communication server 20 ends the communication process. In this case, the message data is not transmitted to the communication server 20. On the other hand, when the transmission of the message data is permitted (step S1501; YES), the notification transmission unit 402 transmits the permission notification to the permitted communication device (step S1502).

Also in this embodiment, all communication devices 10 include identification information for identifying the communication device 10 (or the communication device 10 that does not allow the transmission of message data) that allows the transmission of message data in the permission notification. It may be configured to send a permission notification. For example, the permission notification includes information indicating that "transmission of message data from the communication device 10 having the terminal name Q1 is permitted for a predetermined time", and this permission notification is transmitted to all communication devices 10. Then, the message receiving unit 404 compares the identification information of the communication device 10 that is permitted by the permission notification received by the notification receiving unit 403 with the identification information of itself (of the received communication device 10). If they match, the processes from step S1502 onward are executed, and if they do not match, the communication process ends. In this way, the process of sending the permission notification by the communication server 20 can be simplified. In addition, all communication devices 10 can recognize which communication device 10 is permitted (not permitted), and the game production can be diversified.

The notification receiving unit 403 receives the permission notification from the communication server 20 (step S1503).

The message receiving unit 404 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the last permission notification was received (step S1504). That is, the message receiving unit 404 determines whether or not the current date and time is included in the permission period.

When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S1504; YES), the message receiving unit 404 does not accept the input of the message data and ends the communication process. In this case, the message data is not transmitted to the communication server 20. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S1504; NO), the message receiving unit 404 accepts the input of the message data (step S1505).

The message transmitting unit 405 transmits the message data received by the message receiving unit 404 to the communication server 20 (step S1506).

The message data receiving unit 406 receives the message data from the communication device 10 (step S1507) and stores it in the storage unit 203 (step S1508). The message receiving unit 406 stores the received message data, the date and time of the reception, and the information indicating the source of the message data in association with each other. If a destination is specified, further information indicating the destination of the message data is stored.

In this way, the storage unit 203 of the communication server 20 stores the message data transmitted from each of the communication devices 10. When transmission of message data from all communication devices 10 is permitted, the message data transmitted from any communication device 10 is stored in the storage unit 203. On the other hand, if the current date and time is included in the permission period specified by the permission notification, or if there is a communication device 10 whose permission period is not updated, only the message data transmitted from the permission communication device 10 is stored in the storage unit 203. Stored in.

Since the process of delivering the message data is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, both the method using the permission notification and the method using the non-permission notification can be adopted. A method using a permission notification is desirable when it is desired to manage whether or not all communication devices 10 should always be permitted, and a method using a disapproval notification when it is desired to restrict transmission (disallow) all at once at a certain timing. Is desirable. In any case, by restricting the transmission of message data at important timings, stages, scenes, events, etc. in the game, game information such as game results and messages from key players can be easily disseminated to each player. Can be made to.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. It is also possible to freely combine the components of the above-described embodiment.

In each of the above-described embodiments, the communication server 20 is separately provided in addition to the communication device 10, but any one or more of the plurality of communication devices 10 is configured to function as the communication server 20 as described above. You may. In this case, it is not necessary to separately prepare the communication server 20, and the configuration of the communication system 1 can be simplified.

A program for operating the communication device 10 or the communication server 20 as all or part of the device or server is stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a memory card, CD-ROM, DVD, or MO (Magneto Optical disk). It may be distributed, installed on another computer and operated as the means described above, or the steps described above may be performed.

Further, the program may be stored in a disk device or the like of a server device on the Internet, superimposed on a carrier wave, and downloaded to a computer.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a communication system, a communication device, a communication server, a communication method, and a program suitable for easily disseminating game information to each player according to the progress of the game. Can be done.

<figref num="1">It is a figure which shows the structure of the communication system which concerns on embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="2">It is a figure which shows the outline structure of the typical game device which realizes the communication device of this embodiment.</figref><figref num="3">It is a figure which shows the outline structure of the communication server of this embodiment.</figref><figref num="4">It is a figure for demonstrating the functional configuration of a communication device and a communication server.</figref><figref num="5">It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication process of a communication device and a communication server.</figref><figref num="6">It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication process (continuation) of a communication device and a communication server.</figref><figref num="7">It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication process of a communication device and a communication server.</figref><figref num="8">(a) It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence relation between the condition to be satisfied, and the length of the disapproval period in Embodiment 2. (b) It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence relation between the duration of a game, and the length of a disapproval period.</figref><figref num="9">It is a figure for demonstrating the functional configuration of the communication apparatus and communication server of Embodiment 3.</figref><figref num="10">It is a figure for demonstrating the functional configuration of the communication apparatus and communication server of Embodiment 4.</figref><figref num="11">It is a figure which shows the display example of image data.</figref><figref num="12">It is a figure for demonstrating the functional configuration of the communication apparatus and communication server of Embodiment 5.</figref><figref num="13">It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication process of the communication apparatus and a communication server of Embodiment 5.</figref><figref num="14">It is a figure for demonstrating the functional configuration of the communication apparatus and communication server of Embodiment 6.</figref><figref num="15">It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication process of the communication apparatus and a communication server of Embodiment 6.</figref>

Code description

1 Communication system 10 Communication equipment 20 Communication server 30 Communication network 101 CPU 102 ROM 103 RAM 104 interface 105 controller 106 External memory 107 DVD-ROM drive 108 Image processing unit 109 Speech processing unit 110 NIC 201 Control unit 202 Communication Department 203 Memory 401 Discriminator 402 Notification transmitter 403 Notification receiver 404 Message reception 405 Message transmitter 406 Message receiver 407 Distribution Department 408 Output 901 Operation input reception unit 902 Operation input transmitter 903 Operation input receiver 1001 Image storage 1201 Request reception department 1202 request transmitter 1203 Request receiver