JP7805711B2 - Content providing system, server device and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a content provision system, a server device, and a program.

Gaming systems that match users together to play games have existed for some time. Some such systems allow users to view image information from past matches played by third parties during the waiting period until a match is made (see Patent Document 1).

There is also a gaming system in which a user waits for a match to be made based on matching conditions set by the user while playing another game, and when a match is made, the screen transitions to the game screen of the matched game (see Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-186787 JP 2009-213737 A

However, conventional technology does not reflect the user's intentions regarding how to spend their time while waiting for a match. As a result, the information viewed during the waiting period was not necessarily useful for play after a match was made. In other words, conventional technology did not allow users to effectively utilize the waiting period until the game or other content they desired could begin.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a content provision system etc. that allows users to effectively spend the waiting period until the provision of the content they desire begins.

(1) The present invention provides
A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit for setting desired conditions relating to the content desired to be provided and main content;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that extracts standby content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit based on the desired conditions, and controls the standby content to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
The present invention relates to a content providing system comprising:

The present invention also relates to a server device including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a terminal device (game device) including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units.

According to the present invention, standby content extracted based on desired conditions is provided to the user during the standby period, allowing the user to effectively spend the standby period until the provision of the user's desired main content begins. Note that "content" refers to videos (programs, live performances, game play videos, etc.), games, etc.

(2) The present invention also provides:
A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit for setting desired conditions, which are conditions related to the content desired to be provided, and main content for each user;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that extracts standby content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit based on the desired conditions, and controls the standby content to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a plurality of users to whom the same primary content is to be provided and associates the plurality of users;
Including,
The main content control unit
The present invention relates to a content providing system that provides the primary content to the plurality of users associated by the matching control unit.

The present invention also relates to a server device including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a terminal device (game device) including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units.

According to the present invention, standby content extracted based on desired conditions is controlled so that it can be provided to the user during the standby period, allowing the user to effectively spend the standby period until the provision of the user's desired main content begins.

(3) The present invention also provides:
A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit for setting desired conditions, which are conditions related to the content desired to be provided, and main content for each user;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that extracts standby content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit based on the desired conditions, and controls the standby content to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts other users to be associated with the user based on desired conditions of the user and associates the user with the other users;
Including,
The main content control unit
The present invention relates to a content providing system that provides the primary content to at least one of a plurality of users associated by the matching control unit.

The present invention also relates to a server device including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a terminal device (game device) including each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units. It also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units.

According to the present invention, standby content extracted based on desired conditions is controlled so that it can be provided to the user during the standby period, allowing the user to effectively spend the standby period until the provision of the user's desired main content begins.

(4) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The main content control unit
determining a given game as the primary content;
The matching control unit
A plurality of users to whom the same game is to be provided may be extracted based on the desired conditions of each user, and the plurality of users may be associated with each other.

This invention allows users to effectively spend the waiting period until multiple game users are matched and the game begins.

(5) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The setting unit
At least one of the desired conditions and the primary content may be set based on information input by the user.

This invention allows users to set at least one of their desired conditions and primary content at will, allowing them to spend their waiting period in a way that is even more satisfying.

(6) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The setting unit
The desired conditions may include conditions relating to other users.

According to the present invention, desired conditions can be set taking into consideration, for example, who the user wants to play games with, who the user wants to watch videos with, and whose videos the user wants to watch, and main content and standby content that meet the user's needs can be provided.

(7) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The setting unit
The desired conditions may include conditions relating to the content.

According to the present invention, desired conditions can be set taking into consideration, for example, what kind of game the user wants to play or what kind of program the user wants to watch, and main content and standby content that meet the user's needs can be provided.

(8) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The standby content control unit
Based on the length of the standby period, control may be performed so that standby content can be provided to the user.

This invention makes it possible to minimize idle time for users during waiting periods.

(9) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The system may further include a benefit providing unit that provides a benefit to the user based on the viewing status of the standby content.

According to the present invention, the viewing status of the standby content affects the user's benefits, allowing for even more enjoyment when viewing the standby content.

(10) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The benefit granting unit
The benefit may be an item that the user can use in the primary content.

According to the present invention, the viewing status of the standby content affects the items available in the main content, making viewing of the standby content more enjoyable.

(11) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The benefit granting unit
The user's participation status in the standby content may be the viewing status of the standby content.

According to the present invention, the user's level of engagement with the waiting content affects the benefits they receive, making watching the waiting content even more enjoyable.

(12) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The content management system may further include a presentation unit that presents to the user a list of standby contents that can be provided to the user.

According to the present invention, a list of available waiting content is presented to the user, allowing the user to easily check the list of waiting content.

(13) Furthermore, in the content providing system, server device, terminal device, program, and information storage medium according to the present invention,
The standby content control unit
The priority of the standby content may be determined based on the details of the standby content, and the standby content may be controlled so as to be provided to the user according to the priority.

According to the present invention, the priority of the standby content is determined, and the standby content is controlled so as to be provided to the user in accordance with the priority, so that the standby content can be controlled so as to be provided more appropriately.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a content providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of a server device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the terminal device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the terminal device of the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a standby period according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the terminal device of the present embodiment. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a content providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment will be described below. Note that this embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention as set forth in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in this embodiment are necessarily essential components of the present invention.

[1] Content Providing System First, the outline and general configuration of the content providing system of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the content providing system of this embodiment.

In this embodiment, the information processing device is capable of providing a given service using a terminal device (game device) 20 connected for communication via the Internet (an example of a network).

The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a terminal device, smartphone, mobile phone, PHS, computer, terminal device, PDA, portable game console, image generation device, etc., and is a device that can be connected to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN.

[1.1] Content provision system configured in a client-server model The content provision system of this embodiment may be configured such that a server device 10 and terminal devices 20 (e.g., terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C) are connectable to the Internet (an example of a network), as shown in FIG.

By accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20, the user can play the game based on information transmitted from the server device 10 via the Internet.

In this embodiment, each game may be provided to the terminal device 20 by a single server device 10, or multiple server devices 10 may be linked to form a server system and each game may be provided to the terminal device 20.

In addition, various processes related to the present invention may be performed solely by the server device 10, or solely by the terminal device 20.

[1.2] Terminal Device In this embodiment, the present invention may be realized by a single terminal device having the functions of the server device 10, that is, a device (standalone) that operates independently without relying on other devices such as a server device.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the present invention may be realized by the terminal device 20 alone, without connecting to the server device 10. For example, the present invention may be realized as a content provision system using multiple terminal devices 20 via P2P (peer-to-peer) communication.

Furthermore, multiple such terminal devices can be connected by wire or wirelessly, with one terminal device functioning as the host (server device 10) and the system implemented by multiple terminal devices.

The terminal device may be a tablet information terminal device, a personal computer, or a terminal device (casing) installed in an amusement park, in addition to a regular terminal device.

[1.3] Cloud-based Content Providing System The content providing system of this embodiment may also be a cloud-based content providing system. For example, in a cloud-based content providing system, basic processing (including game processing, drawing processing, etc.) is performed solely by the server device 10 (cloud device), and the terminal device 20 only controls the display of the processing results of the server device 10 (cloud device). Furthermore, the terminal device 20 only transmits information such as controller input information to the server device 10. In this case, the terminal device 20 may also transmit information other than input information.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the functions of the processing unit 200 of the terminal device 20 and the execution of the game program, except for input, may be executed by the server device 10, and the terminal device 20 may realize the above game by executing input and displaying images via streaming.

The content provision system may also store information stored in the server device 10 and information stored in the terminal device 20 in a given storage area on the Internet.

[1.4] Terminal Device Equipped with Multiple Controllers In this embodiment, one terminal device 20 may be equipped with multiple controllers (input units 260). Note that when multiple users play a game using their own controllers on one terminal device 20, it is assumed that the multiple users are actually located close to each other.

[1.5] Example of a Social Game In addition, in this embodiment, the SNS server may function as a social networking service (SNS) server that provides a communication-type service. Here, the SNS server may be an information processing device that provides a service that allows communication between multiple users.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when functioning as an SNS server, for example, it is possible to provide games known as social games that are executed using the operating environment (API (Application Programming Interface), platform, etc.) of the SNS provided.

Unlike existing online games, social games include games that do not require dedicated client software and can be played with just a web browser and an SNS account. This embodiment also provides a configuration that allows users to connect to other users' terminal devices 20 via a network and share the same game progress online at the same time.

[1.6] Examples of Browser Games In particular, in this embodiment, games may be provided on the web browser of the terminal device 20, such as browser games created in various languages, such as HTML, FLASH (registered trademark), CGI, PHP, shockwave, Java (registered trademark) applet, and JavaScript (registered trademark) (games that can be started simply by opening the installation site in the web browser).

The terminal device 20 also has a web browser capable of viewing web pages (HTML data). That is, the terminal device 20 has a communication control function for communicating with the server device 10, a web browser function for controlling display using data received from the server device 10 (web data, data created in HTML format, etc.), and a web browser function for sending user operation data to the server device 10, and is configured to perform various processes for providing game screens to the user and allowing the user to play the game. However, the terminal device 20 may also acquire game control information provided by the server device 10, execute predetermined game processing, and play a game based on the game processing.

Specifically, when the terminal device 20 makes a request to the server device 10 to play a predetermined game, it is connected to the game site of the server device 10 and the game begins. In particular, the terminal device 20 may be configured to use an API as needed to cause the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, to perform predetermined processing, or to obtain user information managed by the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, and then run the game.

[1.7] Others In this embodiment, the server device 10 may be configured with one (device, processor) or multiple (devices, processors). Information (e.g., user information, game information, etc.) stored in the memory area (memory unit 170 described later) of the server device 10 may be stored in a database (broadly speaking, a storage device, memory) connected via a network (an intranet or the Internet). The communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

[2] Server Device Next, the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the server device 10 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, some of the components (each unit) of Fig. 2 may be omitted.

In this embodiment, it includes an input unit 160 used for administrator and other input, an information storage medium 180 storing predetermined information, a communication unit 196 that communicates with terminal devices 20 and others, a processing unit 100 that mainly executes processing related to the game to be provided, and a storage unit 170 that mainly stores various data used in the game.

The input unit 160 is used by a system administrator or the like to input game-related settings and other necessary settings and data. For example, in this embodiment, the input unit 160 is configured with a mouse, keyboard, etc.

The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions are realized by optical disks (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical disks (MOs), magnetic disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs).

The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (e.g., terminals, other servers, or other network systems), and its functions are configured by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, etc.

The memory unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, communication unit 196, etc., and its functions are realized by RAM (VRAM), etc. The information stored in the memory unit 170 may be managed in a database.

In addition to the main memory unit 171, the memory unit 170 of this embodiment also includes an image buffer 172, a game data memory unit 174 in which game information indicating information related to the game is stored, and a user information memory unit (player information memory unit) 176.

In particular, the game data storage unit 174 stores information about the game space (game field) in which the game is played, information about the virtual camera, setting values used in the game, etc.

In addition, the user information storage unit 176 stores user information (user information) for each user (user), associated with a user ID. The user ID is user identification information for identifying the user. For example, in this embodiment, multiple growth elements may be stored in the user information storage unit 176, associated with the user ID.

Note that user information may not only refer to user information associated with a user, but may also include information about the user's character. For example, in this embodiment, multiple growth elements may be stored in the user information storage unit 176 in association with the user's character ID.

The content data storage unit 178 also stores multiple pieces of content (content data). For example, the content data storage unit 178 stores standby content. In this embodiment, the main content is assumed to be a live streaming video or a game played by a user in real time, but if the main content is a recorded video or the like, the content data storage unit 178 may also store the main content.

The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main memory unit 171 in the memory unit 170 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores programs for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (programs for causing a computer to execute the processing of each unit).

For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on a program stored in the information storage medium 180, and performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between each unit. It also performs processes to provide various services in response to requests from the terminal device 20.

In this embodiment, the server device 10 may perform some or all of the processing of the processing unit 100, or the terminal device 20 may perform some of the processing of the processing unit 100.

The processing unit 100 includes a setting unit 110, a main content control unit 111a, a waiting content control unit 111b, a matching control unit 113, a game processing unit 114, a bonus granting unit 115, a presentation unit 116, a reception unit 119, a communication control unit 120, a web processing unit 121, a management unit 122, a notification unit 123, an image generation unit 130, and a sound processing unit 140.

The setting unit 110 sets desired conditions, which are conditions related to the content desired to be provided (content provision), and the main content. For example, the setting unit 110 may set desired conditions, which are conditions related to the content desired to be provided, and the main content for each user.

The setting unit 110 may also set at least one of the desired conditions and the main content based on information input by the user. The setting unit 110 may also set at least one of the desired conditions and the main content based on CPU control (computer control).

The setting unit 110 may also set conditions related to other users (e.g., other users of the content being provided) as desired conditions.

The setting unit 110 may also set conditions related to the content (e.g., the content to be provided) as desired conditions.

The content control unit 111 provides content to users. The content control unit 111 distributes the content to one or more viewer terminal devices 20.

For example, if the content is a live video that captures the actions of a broadcaster or subject, the content control unit 111 sequentially receives image data captured by the broadcaster's terminal device 20 and audio data recorded on the terminal device 20 from the broadcaster's terminal device 20, and sequentially transmits the data to the viewer's terminal device 20 as distribution data.

Furthermore, if the content is a live video of a character operated by the broadcaster, the content control unit 111 sequentially receives images generated by the broadcaster's terminal device 20 (images viewed from a virtual camera in a virtual space in which a character that moves in response to the broadcaster's operations or in synchronization with the broadcaster's actions is placed) and recorded audio data from the terminal device 20, and sequentially transmits them to the viewer's terminal device 20 as distribution data.

Furthermore, if the content is a live video of a game being played by a broadcaster (user), the content control unit 111 sequentially receives game image and game sound data from the game server, which is generated on the game server based on operation data from the broadcaster's terminal device 20 (or generates game image and game sound data based on operation data from the broadcaster's terminal device 20), and sequentially transmits this data to the viewer's terminal device 20 as distribution data.

In addition, instead of directly distributing the distribution data to the viewer's terminal device 20, the content control unit 111 may distribute the distribution data to the viewer's terminal device 20 via a video distribution server.

The content control unit 111 in this embodiment includes a main content control unit 111a and a standby content control unit 111b.

The main content control unit 111a determines the main content based on the desired conditions and provides that main content to the user.

For example, the main content control unit 111a provides main content (e.g., the same main content) to multiple users associated by the matching control unit 113.

The main content control unit 111a may also provide the main content to at least one of the multiple users associated by the matching control unit 113. For example, the main content control unit 111a may provide the main content to a viewer among the multiple users associated with the broadcaster by the matching control unit 113. Furthermore, when multiple viewers are associated by the matching control unit 113, the main content control unit 111a may also provide the main content to some of the multiple users.

The primary content control unit 111a may also determine a given game as the primary content.

For example, the primary content control unit 111a may synchronize the start times of games (e.g., battle royale games or competitive games) for multiple users associated by the matching control unit 113, and start the primary content (e.g., the same game) to provide the game.

The standby content control unit 111b extracts standby content from multiple pieces of content stored in the storage unit 170 (content data storage unit 178) based on desired conditions.

Furthermore, the standby content control unit 111b controls the standby content so that it can be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before the timing at which the primary content begins to be provided. For example, the standby period can be the period from a first timing after the desired conditions are set to a second timing before the timing at which the primary content begins to be provided.

For example, the standby content control unit 111b may control whether standby content can be provided to the user based on the length of the standby period.

The waiting content control unit 111b may also determine the priority of the waiting content based on the content of the waiting content, and control the waiting content so that it can be provided to the user according to the priority.

The matching control unit 113 extracts multiple users (user IDs) managed by the server device 10 and associates (matches) these multiple users (user IDs).

For example, the matching control unit 113 may extract multiple users to whom the same primary content is to be provided and associate these multiple users.

For example, the matching control unit 113 may extract a predetermined number of users (e.g., 100 people) who watch the same video together and associate the extracted users.

For example, the matching control unit 113 may extract a predetermined number (e.g., 100) of users who play the same game (e.g., a battle royale game) and match the extracted users.

The matching control unit 113 may also extract other users to associate with the user based on the user's desired conditions, and associate the user with the other users.

For example, the matching control unit 113 may extract video distributors (providers) to be associated with a user based on the user's desired conditions, and associate the user with the distributor.

Furthermore, for example, the matching control unit 113 may extract other users who will be opponents of the user for the same game (e.g., a competitive game) based on the user's desired conditions, and associate the user with these other users who will be opponents.

In other words, the matching control unit 113 may extract multiple users whose desired conditions match the desired conditions of each user (for example, extract multiple users at the same level) and match the multiple users.

The game processing unit 114 executes game processing based on user input information (operation information). For example, the game processing unit 114 may receive user input information (operation information) from the user's terminal device 20 and execute game processing.

The reward granting unit 115 grants a reward to the user. For example, the reward granting unit 115 may grant a reward to the user based on the viewing status of the standby content.

The bonus granting unit 115 may also set an item that the user can use in the main content as a bonus. The bonus granting unit 115 may also set the user's participation status in the standby content as the viewing status of the standby content.

The presentation unit 116 controls the presentation (display) of given information on the terminal device 20. The presentation unit 116 may also control transmission so that a game screen is presented (displayed) on the terminal device 20. In other words, the presentation unit 116 generates display control information for the game screen, etc., and controls the generated display control information to be displayed on the user's terminal device 20.

The presentation unit 116 controls the presentation (display) of videos of the user's gameplay and game images (game screens) on the display unit 290 of the user's terminal device 20.

In this embodiment, the presentation unit 116 may present the user with a list of standby content that can be provided to the user.

The reception unit 119 receives user input. The reception unit 119 may also receive touch input on a touch panel as user input. The reception unit 119 receives and accepts the content of the input (touch position, timing, etc.) from the terminal device 20.

The reception unit 119 may also receive user inputs, instructions, etc. through data transmission and reception by the communication control unit 120.

The receiving unit 119 may also be configured to receive information (such as posted information) from the terminal device 20 of a viewer user.

The reception unit 119 performs processing to receive posted information about content or performers (distributors, subjects) based on the viewer's operation of the terminal device 20. Posted information includes, for example, virtual currency (tips) owned by the viewer, items (stamps, etc.), comments entered by the viewer, etc.

The reception unit 119 may be configured to accept the posting of posted information when a viewer spends compensation (such as virtual currency) that the viewer owns. Furthermore, if the content being distributed is a live video of a character controlled by a performer (the broadcaster or the subject), the reception unit 119 may accept an operation by the viewer on a character selected by the viewer (such as posting of posted information for the character or an operation by touching the character).

The communication control unit 120 establishes a connection (session or connection) with the terminal device 20 and performs processing to communicate (send and receive) data over the network.

The web processing unit 121 functions as a web server. For example, the web processing unit 121 performs processing to send data in response to requests from a web browser installed on the terminal device 20, and to receive data sent by the web browser on the terminal device 20, via a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol).

The management unit 122 manages game information and user information associated with user identification information for each user.

The management unit 122 may also manage information such as account information for broadcasters and viewers, parameters for broadcasters and viewers, and in-game currency and items that can be used by broadcasters and viewers.

The notification unit 123 also notifies the user of given information. Note that "notifying" information means notifying (providing, presenting, displaying) the information to the user (user's terminal device 20).

Note that "notification" refers to at least one of the following: sending from the server device 10 to the user's terminal device 20 via email (which may be a newsletter, etc.) sent and received using SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol); sending using a given protocol, not limited to SMTP; sending a push notification; presenting (displaying) a specific screen of a specific application (a banner display screen, a notice screen, a pop-up screen, etc.); or the web processing unit 121 of the server device 10 notifying via a web page. It also refers to active transmission by the server device 10 to the user's terminal device 20. Note that in this embodiment, sending information to the user's terminal device 20 in response to a request from the user's terminal device 20 may also be considered a form of "notification." Note that a push notification is the display of a message window in a partial area (such as the top edge) of the terminal (smartphone) screen. Note that "notification" includes audio notifications in which displayed messages are converted into audio. "Notification" also includes notifications via vibration.

The image generation unit 130 is realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or digital signal processor (DSP), a video signal IC, a program such as a video codec, and an IC memory for drawing frames such as a frame buffer. The image generation unit 130 generates one game screen image per frame time (e.g., 1/60 seconds) as the game progresses. The generated image is sent to the terminal device 20.

The image generation unit 130 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating a game image, which is output to the image buffer 172 or transmitted to the terminal device 20. The image generation unit 130 may also generate an image (a so-called three-dimensional image) that can be seen from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) within the object space (game space).

For example, when generating a 3D game image, the image generation unit 130 first performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping, or perspective transformation, and then creates rendering data (position coordinates of vertices of primitive surfaces, texture coordinates, color data, normal vectors, alpha values, etc.) based on the results of this processing. Then, based on this rendering data (primitive surface data), the object (one or more primitive surfaces) after perspective transformation (after geometry processing) is rendered in the image buffer 172 (a buffer that can store image information in pixel units, such as a frame buffer or work buffer; VRAM). This generates an image that can be seen from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) in object space.

The sound processing unit 140 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voices, and transmits them to the terminal device 20.

The processing unit 100 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 and executes game processing for the game provided in this embodiment for each user based on user input entered via the terminal device 20.

The processing unit 100 may also have a timer function, which may be used to synchronize with each terminal device 20 in order to manage the progress of the game. In particular, the current time and a preset time may be output to each unit.

In this embodiment, the server device that provides the main content and the server device that provides the standby content may be provided separately. In such a case, the server device that provides the main content and the server device that provides the standby content send and receive information to and from each other via a network.

[3] Terminal Device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is an example of a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 20 of this embodiment. Furthermore, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (units) of Fig. 3 are omitted.

The input unit 260 is used by the user to input operation data, and its function can be realized by a touch panel or a touch panel display. That is, the input unit 260 is equipped with a detection unit 262 that can detect two-dimensional pointed position coordinates (x, y) on the screen on which an image is displayed. For example, the input unit 260 is equipped with a detection unit 262 that can detect two-dimensional contact position coordinates (x, y) in a contact detection area (touch panel).

Note that touch operations on the display screen (hereinafter referred to as the "touch panel" unless otherwise specified) may be performed using a fingertip or an input device such as a touch pen.

The input unit 260 may also include buttons, levers, keyboards, steering wheels, microphones, acceleration sensors, etc. that can input input information (operation signals) other than the indicated position.

The storage unit 270 serves as a work area for the processing unit 200, communication unit 296, etc., and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 270 of this embodiment includes a main storage unit 271 used as a work area, an image buffer 272 in which final display images and the like are stored, a game data storage unit 274, and a user information storage unit 276. Note that some of these may be omitted, or the storage unit 170 of the server device 10 may constitute part of them.

The image buffer 272 may be configured to store image data generated by the image generation unit 230 or image data received from the server device 10.

The game data storage unit 274 stores information about the game space (game field) in which the game is played, information about each character, information about the virtual camera, and other setting values used in the game. Note that the terminal device 20 may also store information received from the server device 10 in the game data storage unit 274.

The user information storage unit 276 stores user information. Note that the terminal device 20 may receive user information corresponding to a user ID from the server device 10 and store the information in the user information storage unit 276.

Content is also stored in the content data storage unit 278. Note that the terminal device 20 does not necessarily have to store content in the content data storage unit 278. Furthermore, when storing content in the content data storage unit 278, the terminal device 20 may receive content (main content or standby content) corresponding to the user ID from the server device 10 and store it in the content data storage unit 278.

The information storage medium 280 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by optical disks (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical disks (MOs), magnetic disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, or memory (ROMs), etc.

In addition, the information storage medium 280 can store programs for causing a computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (programs for causing a computer to execute the processing of each unit). As will be described later, the processing unit 200 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 280.

The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head-mounted display), etc.

In particular, in this embodiment, the display unit 290 also functions as an input unit 260 where the user operates the game by using a touch panel display. The touch panel may be, for example, a resistive type (four-wire type, five-wire type), a capacitive type, an electromagnetic induction type, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave type, or an infrared scanning type.

The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, etc.

The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, the server device 10 or other terminal devices 20), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, or by programs, etc.

The terminal device 20 may receive, via a network, programs and data for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment, which are stored in the information storage medium 180 or the storage unit 170 of the server device 10, and store the received programs and data in the information storage medium 280 or the storage unit 270. Such cases in which the terminal device 20 functions by receiving programs and data are also included within the scope of the present invention.

The processing unit 200 (processor) works in conjunction with the server device 10 to perform processing such as game processing, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on input data and programs from the input unit 260.

In particular, in this embodiment, game processing includes processing to start a game when game start conditions are met, processing to progress the game, processing to place objects such as characters and enemy characters, processing to display objects, processing to calculate game results, and processing to end a game when game end conditions are met.

The processing unit 200 also performs game processing (e.g., processing of a competitive game) based on user input information entered via the input unit 260. The processing unit 200 may be executed in conjunction with the server device 10, or part or all of it may be formed on the server device 10.

The processing unit 200 also performs various processes using the memory unit 270 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASICs (gate arrays, etc.), or by programs.

The processing unit 200 includes a display control unit 211, a reception unit 212, a notification unit 213, a communication control unit 220, a web browser 221, an image generation unit 230, and a sound processing unit 240. Note that some of these components may be omitted.

The display control unit 211 performs processing to display the game screen on the display unit 290. For example, the display control unit 211 may display the game screen using a web browser 221. The display control unit 211 also displays information required during the game on the display unit 290 based on information transmitted from the server device 10. For example, the terminal device 20 displays the game screen display information received from the server device 10.

In addition, the display control unit 211 may perform all or part of the same processing as the presentation unit 116 of the server device 10.

The reception unit 212 performs processing to receive input from the user. For example, the reception unit 212 may transmit input information received by the terminal device 20 to the server device 10, which then receives the input information. The reception unit 212 may also perform processing similar to all or part of the processing performed by the reception unit 119 of the server device 10.

The notification unit 213 notifies the user of given information. For example, the notification unit 213 displays the information on the game screen. The notification unit 213 may also perform all or part of the same processing as the notification unit 123 of the server device 10.

The communication control unit 220 performs processing to send and receive data to and from each server device 10. The communication control unit 220 also performs processing to store data received from the server device 10 in the storage unit 270, analyze the received data, and control processing related to the sending and receiving of other data.

The communication control unit 220 may store and manage destination information (network information such as IP addresses and port numbers) of other terminal devices 20 and the server device 10 in the storage unit 270 or the information storage medium 280. The communication control unit 220 may then communicate with the server device 10 when receiving input information from the user to start communication.

In particular, the communication control unit 220 transmits user identification information and input information to the server device 10 and receives data (user's web page, game screen, etc.) from the server device 10.

The communication control unit 220 may transmit and receive data to and from the server device 10 at a predetermined interval, or may transmit and receive data to and from the server device 10 when input information is received from the input unit 260. In particular, the communication control unit 220 of this embodiment performs processing to receive given screen information (e.g., game screen information, etc.) from the server device 10.

The web browser 221 is an application program for viewing web pages (game screens). It downloads HTML files, image files, etc. from the web server (server device 10), analyzes the layout, and controls the display. The web browser 221 also sends data to the web server (server device 10) using input forms (links, buttons, text boxes, etc.).

The web browser 221 of this embodiment can implement a browser game. For example, the web browser 221 may execute a program written in JavaScript (registered trademark), FLASH (registered trademark), Java (registered trademark), or the like, received from a web server (server device 10).

The terminal device 20 can use the web browser 221 to display information from a web server specified by a URL (short for Uniform Resource Locator) via the Internet. For example, the terminal device 20 can use the web browser 221 to display a game screen (data such as HTML) received from the server device 10.

The image generation unit 230 performs drawing processing based on various processes (e.g., game processing) performed by the processing unit 200, thereby generating an image, which is output to the display unit 290 by the display control unit 211. The image generated by the image generation unit 230 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a so-called three-dimensional image. Note that the image generation unit 230 may perform all or part of the same processing as the image generation unit 130 of the server device 10.

The sound processing unit 240 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200, generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, or voice, and outputs them to the sound output unit 292. Note that the sound processing unit 240 may perform all or part of the same processing as the sound processing unit 140 of the server device 10.

In this embodiment, when a game is played by multiple terminal devices 20 via P2P or the like, one terminal device 20 may act as a host and execute processing. In such a case, the terminal device 20 acting as the host may perform the processing of each processing unit (part or all of each processing unit) of the server device 10.

[4] Overview This embodiment relates to a system for providing content to a user. In this embodiment, first, desired conditions are set based on input information from a user PA. For example, desired conditions of "dog training class" and "walk" are set based on input information from the user PA. Then, based on the desired conditions of "dog training class" and "walk,""dog training class (walk edition)," which is scheduled for live video distribution, is determined as the main content, and a live video of "dog training class (walk edition)" is distributed to the user PA. Note that, as will be described later, there are various methods for setting desired conditions.

For example, if there are about 10 minutes until the live streaming of "Dog Training Course (Walking Edition)" begins, the user PA will have to wait bored until the live streaming starts.

In this embodiment, therefore, during the waiting time until the live streaming distribution of "Dog Training Course (Walking Edition)" begins, the recorded video of "Walking the Dog" is made available to the user PA as standby content based on the desired conditions.

In this way, the user PA can effectively spend the waiting period until the provision of the main content desired by the user PA begins. Furthermore, since it is possible to deliver a waiting video that meets the desired conditions set in advance by the user PA's input information, it is possible to provide waiting content that is suitable for the user PA. For the sake of convenience, the following explanation will mainly focus on an example of providing content to the user PA.

[5] Description of Content The server device 10 of this embodiment performs processing to provide content to users. Here, "content" refers to games (game programs) and videos. Examples of videos include live videos filmed by a broadcaster, live videos of characters moving within a virtual game space in response to inputs from the broadcaster, and live videos of a game being played by a broadcaster.

Furthermore, "providing content" means, if the content is a game, providing the game and controlling the execution of game processing so that the game can be played.

Furthermore, "providing content" means, if the content is video, streaming video data to the viewer's terminal device 20 and controlling it so that the viewer can view it.

[5.1] Description of the Main Content The "main content" can be a video of a program such as a talk show, a musical performance, a live performance, or a game broadcast such as a game commentary. For example, it may be a video in which a real person appears, or a video in which a character appears (plays a game commentary video).

Furthermore, the "primary content" can be game content. For example, it could be a game that the user PA can play, or a live video.

In other words, the "main content" may be something that the user PA can participate in, or something that the user PA cannot participate in. For example, "participation" means that the user PA can post, operate, etc., and be involved in the content. "non-participation" means that the user PA can only watch.

If the "main content" is a video, the video is primarily provided by live streaming. The "main content" may also be a video provided by streaming a recording. In such cases, the "main content" may be the video data pre-stored as content in the content data storage unit 178.

[5.2] Description of standby content "Standby content" is content such as a video related to the desired conditions of the user PA. "Standby content" is, for example, an explanatory video, a video distributed in the past, a video of a past gameplay, etc. "Related to the desired conditions" means, for example, related to the main content.

The "waiting content" may also be a game related to the user PA's desired conditions. For example, if the main content is game-related content (a game or game commentary video), the waiting content may be a mini-game related to the main content.

[6] Setting Desired Conditions In this embodiment, desired conditions are set, which are conditions related to the content desired to be provided (content provision). Desired conditions may also be referred to as "desired information" related to the content desired to be provided (content provision). One or more desired conditions may be set. Note that in this embodiment, the desired conditions may be set based on input information from the user PA, or may be set based on CPU control (computer control).

The server device 10 sets desired conditions for each user and stores the desired conditions of the user in the user information storage unit 176 in association with the user ID of the user.

[6.1] Conditions Related to Content Details For example, the server device 10 may set desired conditions including conditions related to the content details based on input information from the user PA.

"Content-related conditions" include, for example, the program name of the content, the genre of the content (e.g., "music," "variety," "animals," "sports," "movies," etc.), keywords, the length of the content (also known as the length), and the rating of the content.

Furthermore, if the content is a game, the "content-related conditions" may include the name of the game that user PA wants to play with other users, the game genre (e.g., competitive game, music game, simulation game, etc.), keywords, the mission or scene that they want to play (e.g., a specific scene such as Monster A in Mission 10), and the difficulty level.

[6.2] Conditions for Other Users Related to Content In this embodiment, multiple users to whom the same primary content (e.g., a video or LIVE of a specific program) is to be provided may be extracted, and the multiple users may be associated (matched). In such a case, the server device 10 may determine the desired conditions of the other users to be associated with the user PA based on input information of the user PA.

For example, the server device 10 may set desired conditions, including conditions regarding other users related to the content, based on information input by the user PA.

"Conditions related to other users" can be the usernames of other users with whom user PA wants to watch videos, or the attributes of those users. User attributes include information indicating whether or not the users are friends, and information about their terminal devices (e.g., game device, smartphone model, etc.).

The "conditions related to other users" may be conditions related to the distribution information of the content provider. For example, the distribution information may be the name of the broadcaster appearing in the video of the content (the name of the user appearing and the attributes of the user), the name of the broadcaster of the video (the name of the user broadcasting and the attributes of the user), or the name of the character appearing in the video.

Furthermore, if the content is a game, the "conditions related to other users" may be conditions related to other users who will play (match) the game together with the user PA. In other words, the "conditions related to other users related to the content" may be the usernames, user levels, and user attributes of other users who wish to play (match) the game together with the user PA. Note that user attributes may include the user's play history, level, weapons used, items used, characters used, play style, etc.

[6.3] Combination The desired conditions in this embodiment may be a combination of the various conditions described above (conditions relating to the content, conditions relating to other users relating to the content, etc.).

[6.4] Example of setting desired conditions [6.4.1] Example 1 of setting desired conditions
In this embodiment, the user PA may also specify each item to set desired conditions.

For example, if there are two items, "Program Name" and "Keywords," the user PA may specify (input) each item to set the desired conditions. For example, based on the information input by the user PA, the desired conditions may be set by specifying "Dog Training Class" as the "Program Name" and "Walk" as the "Keyword." With this setting, the server device 10 associates the program name "Dog Training Class" and the keyword "Walk" in the user information storage unit 176 as the user PA's desired conditions, in association with the user PA's user ID.

For example, let us consider a case where there are three items: "Program Name," "Keyword," and "User(s) Want to Watch Together," and user PA wants to watch a program related to "Walks" in "Dog Training Classes" together with user PB. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, user PA inputs the desired conditions by specifying "Dog Training Classes" in "Program Name," "Walks" in "Keyword," and "User PB" in "User(s) Want to Watch Together." When user PA then inputs the setting button, server device 10 associates the program name "Dog Training Classes," the keyword "Walks," and the name of the user who watched together, "User PB," with user PA's user ID and stores them in the user information storage unit 176 as user PA's desired conditions.

[6.4.2] Example 2 of setting desired conditions
Alternatively, the user PA may specify some of the items, and the other items may be automatically specified by the CPU based on the specified items. For example, if there are two items, "program name" and "keyword," and the user PA specifies "dog training course" as the "program name" but does not specify a "keyword," the CPU may specify "walk" as the "keyword." The program name "dog training course" and the keyword "walk" may then be stored in the user information storage unit 176 as the user PA's desired conditions, in association with the user ID of the user PA.

[6.4.3] Example 3 of setting desired conditions
Furthermore, when the user PA inputs a search keyword or selects an item, the desired conditions may be set by automatically specifying the items to be set as desired conditions under CPU control based on the input search keyword.

For example, when a user PA inputs a search keyword such as "how to train a dog," the CPU may automatically specify "dog training course" as the "program name" and "walk" as the "keyword." The program name "dog training course" and the keyword "walk" may then be stored in the user information storage unit 176 as the desired conditions of the user PA, in association with the user ID of the user PA.

[6.4.4] Example 4 of setting desired conditions
In this embodiment, the user PA may determine in advance the main content that the user PA wishes to view based on input information from the user PA. If the user PA has determined (designated) the main content that the user PA wishes to view in advance, the information associated with the main content may be set as the desired condition.

For example, when a user PA specifies and inputs "Dog Training Course (Walking Edition)" as the main content, the CPU may automatically specify "Dog Training Course" as the "Program Name" and "Walking" as the "Keyword." Then, the program name "Dog Training Course" and the keyword "Walking" may be stored in the user information storage unit 176 as the user PA's desired conditions, associated with the user PA's user ID.

[6.4.5] Example 5 of setting desired conditions
In addition, in this embodiment, the desired conditions of the user PA may be automatically set based on CPU control using information such as the viewing status of content (main content or standby content) viewed by the user PA in the past, the playing status of games, etc., and the user's purchase history of products, etc.

"Viewing status" refers to information such as what was watched, how long it was watched, how much was watched, and what the rating was. "Playing status" refers to information such as the difficulty level, who was playing, and what game was played.

[6.4.6] Example 6 of setting desired conditions
In addition, in this embodiment, the main content may be selected based on the user PA's hobbies and preferences, and the contents of each item associated with that main content may be automatically specified based on CPU control and set as the user PA's desired conditions.

[6.4.7] Example 7 of setting desired conditions
In this embodiment, the desired conditions may be edited (reset). For example, when the desired conditions of the user PA are automatically set based on CPU control, the designated content of each item of the desired conditions may be edited (changed) based on input information from the user PA. Also, the desired conditions may be selected based on input information from the user PA.

[6.4.8] Example 8 of setting desired conditions
For example, if a user PA wishes to participate in a battle royale game and be matched with other users, the game title and difficulty level may be set as desired conditions, and the server device 10 may set the desired conditions as the title "XX Survival Game" and the difficulty level "EASY" based on the input information of the user PA.

[6.4.9] Example 9 of setting desired conditions
For example, if user PA participates in a competitive game and wishes to be matched with an opponent user of level 10, the game title and level may be set as desired conditions, and the server device 10 may set the desired conditions as the genre "competitive game" and the target level as "level 10" based on the input information of user PA.

[7] Explanation Regarding Provision of Primary Content The server device 10 determines primary content based on the desired conditions of the user PA, and provides the primary content to the user PA.

For example, based on the desired conditions of "Dog Training Course" as the "Program Name" and "Walk" as the "Keyword," the server device 10 determines that the live broadcast by broadcaster PX, "Dog Training Course (Walk Edition)," scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM on March 1, 2021, is to be the main content. Then, the main content (video of "Dog Training Course (Walk Edition)") is provided (distributed) to user PA's terminal device 20 at 3:00 PM on March 1, 2021.

Furthermore, if "User PB" is set as the "Users who want to watch together," the server device 10 notifies user PB of information about user PB who wishes to watch with user PB (the name of user PA) and information about the main content (for example, the program name "Dog Training Course (Walking Edition)" and the start time "March 1, 2021, 3:00 PM") to user PB.

Then, if the server device 10 obtains consent from the user PB to watch together, it associates the user PA with the user PB. Then, it associates the user PA and the user PB with the identification information of the primary content.

Furthermore, when the start time of the main content arrives, the server device 10 automatically provides the main content (for example, a program titled "Dog Training Course (Walking Edition)") to the user PA and the user PB (distributes it to the terminal devices 20 of the user PA and the user PB). Note that the main content may be provided to at least one of the associated users PA and PB.

Note that if the start time for distribution of the primary content has not been determined and the primary content is to be provided based on a start instruction from the provider of the primary content, the server device 10 may start providing the primary content based on a start input from the provider. For example, in the case of video distribution, the server device 10 may start video distribution based on an instruction to start video distribution.

Furthermore, the server device 10 may start providing the main content when multiple users who plan to watch the program have gathered. For example, if a program titled "Dog Training Lessons (Walk Edition)" is recorded data and is content that can be viewed at any time, and user PA and user PB are watching it together, the server device 10 may receive a predetermined input from user PA indicating that they are ready to watch, and then start distribution of the program titled "Dog Training Lessons (Walk Edition)" when it receives a predetermined input from user PB indicating that they are ready to watch.

Furthermore, the server device 10 may start distributing a video of a specified primary content when it receives input from a specified number of users (e.g., 100 or more) that the video is available for viewing.

Furthermore, the server device 10 may start providing content when the association between the content provider (e.g., a video distributor) and the user receiving the content (e.g., a video viewer) is complete.

For example, when the server device 10 distributes a video of a distributor, the server device 10 may control the video so that it can be viewed by users authorized by the distributor. Specifically, when the server device 10 receives a request from a user PA to view a game commentary video of the distributor PX, the server device 10 may
The server device 10 transmits information to the distributor PX inquiring whether the user PA is allowed to view the game commentary video. When the distributor PX permits the user PA to view the game commentary video as a viewer, the server device 10 associates the distributor PX with the viewer PA (user PA who is also a viewer) and distributes the game commentary video as main content to the viewer PA. On the other hand, when the distributor PX denies the user PA from viewing the game commentary video as a viewer, the server device 10 does not associate the distributor PX with the viewer PA and prohibits distribution of the game commentary video to the viewer PA.

Furthermore, when the server device 10 determines a given game as the main content, it may start providing the game when it associates the game with other users (partners or opponents) who will play the game together with the user PA.

For example, if user PA sets the desired matching conditions for a specific XX battle game as the game name "XX battle game" and the target level as "Level 10," and user PB sets the desired matching conditions for a specific XX battle game as the game name "XX battle game" and the target level as "Level 10," the server device 10 will extract user PA and user PB as users with the game name "XX battle game" and the target level as "Level 10." Then, the server device 10 will associate user PA with user PB.

Then, once the server device 10 has completed associating the user PA with the user PB and the game has started, it performs processing to provide the "XX battle game" as the main content (start the game).

Note that while an example has been described in which the primary content is determined based on the user PA's desired conditions, the server device 10 may also be controlled to provide the primary content if the primary content that the user PA wants to view has been determined in advance based on input information from the user PA.

[8] Determining standby content After determining the main content based on the desired conditions, the server device 10 next determines standby content. The server device 10 extracts standby content from the multiple contents stored in the storage unit 170 (content data storage unit 178) based on the desired conditions.

In this embodiment, the standby content is at least content other than the main content. Furthermore, the standby content is extracted from the content stored in the content data storage unit 178.

[9] Standby Content Based on the Length of the Standby Period The server device 10 controls the standby content so that it can be provided to the user PA during the standby period Tx from the first timing T1 after the desired conditions are set to the second timing T2 before the timing T3 at which the provision of the main content starts. The number of standby contents that can be provided to the user PA during the standby period Tx may be one or more.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the server device 10 sets the timing when the desired conditions are set as timing T0 and the timing when the provision of the primary content begins as timing T3.

Then, a given period (the period from T1 to T2) within the period from T0 to T3 is set as the standby period Tx.

In other words, the start timing of the waiting period Tx is the first timing T1, and the end timing of the waiting period Tx is the second timing T2.

The first timing T1 may be the same timing as timing T0 when the desired conditions are set. Alternatively, the first timing T1 may be the timing immediately after timing T0 (for example, one second after timing T0).

Furthermore, taking the passage of time into consideration, the start timing T1 (first timing T1) of the waiting period Tx may be set to a timing a given period from the timing T0 at which the desired conditions were set (for example, one minute later).

Furthermore, if the primary content is a live video and the start time of providing the primary content (live start time) is predetermined, the user PA may temporarily suspend access to the server device 10. In such a case, if the user PA accesses the server device 10 again, for example, 10 minutes before the start time of the live broadcast, the start timing T1 (first timing T1) of the waiting period Tx may be updated to the timing of that access or a timing a given period from the timing of that access.

Furthermore, the second timing T2 and the timing T3 when the provision of the main content begins may be the same timing. In this way, the provision of the main content can begin simultaneously with the end of provision of the standby content.

Also, if the provision start timing T3 of the primary content has not been determined, the server device 10 may tentatively set a timing a given period from the timing T0 at which the desired conditions were set as the provision start timing T3 of the primary content. After that, once the provision start timing T3 of the primary content has been determined, the provision start timing T3 of the primary content can be updated to the correct timing (the determined timing).

The period Ty shown in Figure 5 is the period during which the main content is provided. The period Ty is the period from the time T3 when the main content begins to be provided to the time T4 when the main content ends to be provided. For example, if the main content is a video, the distribution time of the video is the time T3 when the main content begins to be provided. Furthermore, the time T4 may be determined based on instructions from the provider (distributor).

Also, for example, if the primary content is a game, multiple users are extracted and associated, and the timing at which each associated user starts the game is the primary content provision start timing T3, and the end of the game is timing T4.

For example, the server device 10 may control whether standby content is viewable by the user based on the length of the standby period Tx. In other words, in this embodiment, the length of the standby period Tx may be determined, and content that fits within the length of the standby period Tx may be preferentially extracted as standby content.

For example, there may be one standby content that fits within the length of the standby period Tx, or there may be multiple standby contents. For example, the total length of the multiple standby contents may fit within the length of the standby period Tx.

The server device 10 may also determine the length of the standby period Tx and edit the standby content. For example, if the standby period Tx is one minute and the standby content is two minutes, the server device 10 may delete (cut) a portion of the standby content (e.g., the last one minute) or increase the playback speed of the standby content so that the standby content ends within the standby period Tx. If the standby content is 30 seconds long, the server device 10 may thin out the standby content or decrease the playback speed of the standby content so that the standby content ends within the standby period Tx.

[10] Priority of waiting content The server device 10 determines the priority of the waiting content based on the content of the waiting content. Then, the server device 10 may control the waiting content so that it can be provided to the user PA based on the priority of the waiting content.

In other words, the server device 10 may extract and edit the standby content based on the priority of the standby content. For example, the server device 10 may extract and provide one standby content with the highest priority from among multiple standby contents.

Furthermore, if the provision of the standby content with the highest priority has finished within the standby period Tx, the server device 10 extracts and provides a new standby content. For example, the server device 10 extracts one standby content with a high priority that has not yet been provided. In this way, standby content is extracted and provided in descending order of priority until the standby period Tx ends.

Then, when the standby period Tx ends, the server device 10 stops providing the standby content that is currently being provided and provides the main content when the provision of the main content starts.

In this embodiment, a priority value between 1 and 3 is set for each standby content. A smaller priority value means a lower priority, and a higher priority value means a higher priority.

[10.1] Example of increasing priority as desired conditions are met The server device 10 may increase the priority of waiting content as the waiting content matches the desired conditions of the user PA. For example, if the user PA has multiple desired conditions, the priority of the waiting content increases as the number of desired conditions that match increases.

To be more specific, suppose user PA sets "Dog Training Class" as the desired condition for "Program Name" and "Walk" as the keyword. Then, for example, a priority is set to 1 for a video that is not related to "walks" but is a "Dog Training Class." Also, for example, a priority is set to 2 for a video that is related to "walks" and is also a "Dog Training Class."

[10.2] Setting Priority Based on Latest Content The server device 10 may assign a higher priority to standby content the more recent it is. For example, if the standby content was registered less than one day ago from the current time, the priority may be set to 3; if the standby content was registered more than one day ago but less than seven days ago from the current time, the priority may be set to 2; and if the standby content was registered more than seven days ago from the current time, the priority may be set to 1. Note that the server device 10 may assign a lower priority to standby content the more recent it is.

[10.3] Setting Priority Based on Content Length The server device 10 may assign a higher priority to standby content as the length (duration) of the standby content becomes shorter. For example, if the length (duration) of the standby content is less than 5 minutes, the priority may be set to 3; if the length (duration) of the standby content is 5 minutes or more but less than 60 minutes, the priority may be set to 2; and if the length (duration) of the standby content is 60 minutes or more, the priority may be set to 2. Note that the server device 10 may assign a lower priority to standby content as the length (duration) of the standby content becomes longer.

[10.4] Setting Priority of Waiting Content for Other Users The server device 10 may set a higher (or lower) priority to waiting content for other users PB that match the desired conditions of user PA.

Let's say that user PA has set "Dog Training Class" as the desired conditions for "Program Name," "Walk" as the keyword, and "User PB" as the user they want to watch with. In this case, for example, if a video is related to "Walks" and is a "Dog Training Class" that can be watched together with user PB, the priority is set to 3. Also, if user PA is watching standby content that another user PB who matches the desired conditions set by user PA has participated in in the past, the priority may be set to a higher (or lower) level.

[10.5] Setting Priority Based on Content Rating The server device 10 may assign a higher priority to a waiting content with a higher rating. Here, the waiting content may be rated as a high or low rating, or as a numerical rating from 1 to 5 (higher values indicate higher ratings). For example, the rating of waiting content may be determined by viewer input, or may be determined automatically by computer control (CPU control).

The evaluation may also be based on the number of views or viewers of the standby content. For example, if the number of views (viewers) is a predetermined number or more (e.g., 10 million or more), it may be determined to be highly rated, and if it is less than 10 million, it may be determined to be poorly rated.

Also, if the number of posts for waiting content is a predetermined number or more (e.g., 10 or more), it may be determined to be highly rated, and if it is less than the predetermined number, it may be determined to be poorly rated.

Also, if the standby content is a game, it may be determined to be highly rated if the game result is a predetermined result (game clear, excellent, winner, high score, etc.), and it may be determined to be poorly rated if the game result is not a predetermined result (for example, game over, loss, low score, etc.).

In addition, if the standby content contains a rare scene (in the case of a game, obtaining a rare item) or an excellent scene (in the case of a game, completing the game in the shortest time), it may be judged to be highly rated.

[11] Examples of main content and standby content In this embodiment, the main content is, in principle, a game or live video (live video) that progresses in real time and is extracted based on desired conditions, and the standby content is assumed to be recorded video data or a mini-game related to the main content.

There are various other possible examples of main content and standby content. For example, if a user PA sets a specific musical band as a desired condition, the server device 10 of this embodiment will determine as the main content a video scheduled for live streaming that matches that band. Then, based on the desired condition, past live footage of that rock band may be extracted and provided as standby content. In this way, it is possible to enjoy past live performances while building a sense of anticipation for the upcoming live performance.

Furthermore, for example, if the desired conditions are the matching conditions for a competitive game, the server device 10 of this embodiment determines the game in which the matched users will participate as the main content when the matching is completed and the game is played. Based on the desired conditions, the server device 10 may then extract and provide, as waiting content, videos showing difficult scenes in the competitive game or walkthroughs of stages played in the competitive game. This allows for effective use of the waiting period during matching.

Furthermore, for example, if a user PA sets a sports match involving a specific team, such as soccer, as a desired condition, the server device 10 of this embodiment determines live video of that match as the main content. Then, based on the desired condition, video of past matches and player introductions of the athletes and teams appearing in the match may be extracted and provided as standby content. In this way, spectators' excitement can be heightened during the standby period, allowing them to enjoy the actual match even more.

In addition, if the main content is a recorded video, the video that best matches the desired conditions may be set as the main content, and the video that next matches the desired conditions may be set as the standby content.

[12] Providing Benefits The server device 10 may provide a benefit to the user PA based on the viewing status of the standby content.

In this embodiment, the "viewing status" includes a rating (viewing rating) for the standby content. The "rating" can be, for example, a low rating or a high rating. In other words, the server device 10 may be configured to accept instructions from viewers to rate the gameplay video low or high.

The "rating" may also be a numerical value. For example, when rating gameplay videos on a five-point scale from 1 to 5, the server device 10 may accept any of the rating values from viewers.

The server device 10 may also calculate the number of dislikes, the number of likes, and, in the case of a five-point rating system, the average rating value for each gameplay video.

The "viewing status" also includes the number of viewers of the waiting content. The number of viewers is, for example, the number of viewers currently watching.

The "viewing status" also includes the viewer's posting status for the waiting content. The posting status includes the viewer's comments for the waiting content, images, the value of the posted tip, the posted tip item (tipping object), etc. The value of the tip may be the value of a currency traded in real life, the value of virtual currency in the game space, or the value of electronic money.

The "viewing status" may also refer to the user PA's involvement with the waiting content. For example, if a user PA posts a comment on the waiting content, or a tip value or tip item, the user is determined to have participated in the waiting content.

The server device 10 then grants a bonus to the user PA, for example, when the user PA makes a tip to a video of waiting content.

Furthermore, the server device 10 may grant a reward to the user PA based on the number of views (or the number of viewers) of the videos watched by the user PA during the waiting period Tx.

The server device 10 may also grant, as a benefit, an item that the user PA can use in the main content. For example, a special posting item that can be posted to the main content (a special tipping item or a special name item that indicates the poster (user PA)) may be granted as a benefit. For example, the special posting item may be an item that has been subjected to a sparkling effect that differs from normal items. The server device 10 may also grant, as a benefit, the right to enter a special comment in the main content.

Furthermore, for example, if the primary content is a game, the server device 10 may grant a bonus in the form of an item that can be used in the game or an increase in parameters such as attack power or stamina. Furthermore, for example, if the primary content is a video of a specific program, the server device 10 may grant the user PA a bonus in the form of an item related to the program (support goods, costumes, concert tickets, etc.).

[13] List of Waiting Contents The server device 10 of this embodiment may present to the user a list of waiting contents that can be provided to the user, as shown in FIG.

For example, delivery candidates 61 and 62 for standby content scheduled for distribution may be presented. The standby content corresponding to the candidate selected based on a selection instruction from the user PA may then be provided to the user PA.

Distribution candidate 61 is an example of one standby content that can be provided to user PA during standby period Tx. For example, a thumbnail image GA of video MA and information about video MA are displayed as standby content.

Distribution candidate 62 is an example of two standby contents that can be provided to user PA during standby period Tx. For example, if there are two standby contents, a thumbnail image GB of the video MB scheduled for distribution first, a thumbnail image GC of the video MC scheduled for distribution second, and information about each video MB and MC are displayed. In this way, user PA can easily check the distribution schedule.

For example, when the server device 10 receives a "view" link for candidate 62 from user PA, it delivers a video MB to the user PA's terminal device 20, and then delivers a video MC after the video MB.

[14] Flowchart Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of this embodiment. The processing flow of this embodiment will be described using Fig. 7. First, desired conditions are set based on information input by the user (step S1). Then, main content is determined based on the desired conditions (step S2).

The system also determines the standby content based on the desired conditions (step S3). For example, the standby content is extracted from multiple pieces of content and determined. The determined standby content is then provided to the user (step S4).

Next, it is determined whether to start providing the primary content (step S5). For example, it is determined whether the time to start providing the primary content has arrived.

If provision of the primary content is started (Y in step S5), the primary content is provided to the user (step S6). For example, the server device 10 may distribute the content as follows:
A process for automatically switching from the standby content to the main content is performed. On the other hand, if the provision of the main content is not to be started (N in step S5), the process returns to step S4. This ends the process.

[15] Supplementary explanation regarding video distribution When providing video content, the server device 10 may use a video distribution service to distribute video data to the viewer's terminal device 20 via the video distribution server 30.

Furthermore, when live streaming (live distribution) of gameplay video content, the server device 10 may perform live streaming distribution of video data of the gameplay video showing the gameplay status of the user (player) via the video distribution server 30.

In this embodiment, "game play video" refers to a so-called game commentary video, and may be a video of the game screen, or a video of the user who is the game operator (broadcaster). Also, the video of the game screen and a video of the user may be displayed side by side on the screen. Also, a video of the user may be inserted as a wipe into the video of the game screen. Furthermore, "game play video" may include audio data of the user who is the game operator (broadcaster).

The video distribution server 30 is connected via a network to the terminal devices 20 of users who play the game, the terminal devices 20 of viewers, and the server device 10.

In addition, in this embodiment, the server device 10 may have a video distribution function and distribute gameplay video data to the viewer's terminal device 20.

The server device 10 may also store the user ID (user name), viewing status, and game information (game name, quest information, stage number, etc.) in association with the identification information of each gameplay video of each user.

The content providing system of this embodiment may also include a relay server 40, as shown in FIG. 11. The relay server 40 is a device that primarily relays data between the server device 10 and the viewer's terminal device 20, and between the video distribution server 30 and the viewer's terminal device 20, and provides interactive streaming content in which viewers can participate.

The relay server 40 controls the terminal devices 20 of users playing the game (distributor's terminal devices 20), viewer terminal devices 20, server device 10, and video distribution server 30 so that they are all connected to each other via a network and can send and receive data between them.

The viewer's terminal device 20 transmits evaluation information (tip value, tip item, high rating, etc.) associated with the selected character (character ID) to the relay server 40. The relay server 40 then receives the evaluation information associated with the selected character (character ID) from the viewer's terminal device 20.

The viewer's terminal device 20 may transmit the viewer's input information (touch operation information) to the relay server 40 from the start to the end of game play by the user who is the game operator, and the relay server 40 may analyze the input information received from the viewer's terminal device 20 and determine information about the character selected by the viewer (e.g., character ID) and evaluation information associated with that character.

Then, the relay server 40 transmits information about the character selected by the viewer and the evaluation information associated with that character to the server device 10, and the server device 10 receives information about the character selected by the viewer and the evaluation information associated with that character from the relay server 40 and performs game processing.

The viewer's terminal device 20 may receive data in advance from the server device 10 for selecting and rating (supporting) characters.

For example, the content provision system of this embodiment may be composed of a user terminal device 20 (viewer terminal device 20), a server device 10 (game server), and a posting server 50 that processes posts by viewers.

By communicating with the server device 10 (game server), the posting server 50 can reflect game effects in the game based on the posted content, change the posted content based on the game results, and so on, even without running the game.

The user's terminal device 20 communicates with the server device 10 (game server) to send and receive information related to the game, and communicates with the posting server 50 to process posts.

The posting server 50 and the server device 10 (game server) communicate with each other. The posting server 50 obtains information about the game from the server device 10 (game server), and the server device 10 (game server) obtains information about posts from the posting server 50.

The screen displayed on the user's terminal device 20 (a screen on which information related to the post is superimposed on a game screen (a screen on which a tipping object, etc. is superimposed)) may be superimposed on the user's terminal device 20 itself based on information acquired from the server device 10 (game server) and the posting server 50, or the superimposition may be performed on the server device 10 (game server) or the posting server 50, and then displayed on the user's terminal device 20. The content provision system may consist of only the user's terminal device 20 and the posting server 50. The posting server 50 may also function as the relay server 40 described above.

[16] Application Examples This embodiment can be implemented in games such as battle games, fighting games, sports games, racing games, action games, music games, training games, simulation games, puzzle games, and communication games.

[17] Others The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. For example, terms cited in the specification or drawings as broadly defined or synonymous terms can be replaced with broadly defined or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

The present invention includes configurations that are substantially identical to the configurations described in the embodiments (for example, configurations with the same function, method, and result, or configurations with the same purpose and effect). The present invention also includes configurations in which non-essential parts of the configurations described in the embodiments are replaced. The present invention also includes configurations that achieve the same effects or purposes as the configurations described in the embodiments. The present invention also includes configurations in which publicly known technology is added to the configurations described in the embodiments.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible without substantially departing from the novel features and advantages of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

10 Server device, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C Terminal device,
100 processing unit, 110 setting unit, 111a main content control unit,
111b standby content control unit, 113 matching control unit,
114 game processing unit, 115 benefit granting unit, 116 presentation unit, 119 acceptance unit,
120 Communication control unit, 121 Web processing unit, 122 Management unit, 123 Notification unit,
130 Image generation unit, 140 Sound processing unit, 160 Input unit, 170 Storage unit,
171 main memory unit, 172 image buffer, 174 game data memory unit,
176 User information storage unit, 178 Content data storage unit,
180 Information storage medium, 196 Communication Department,
200 processing unit, 211 display control unit,
212 Reception unit, 213 Notification unit, 220 Communication control unit,
221 Web browser, 230 Image generation unit, 240 Sound processing unit,
260 input unit, 262 detection unit, 270 storage unit,
271 main memory unit, 272 image buffer, 274 game data memory unit,
276 User information storage unit, 278 Content data storage unit,
280 information storage medium, 290 display unit, 292 sound output unit, 296 communication unit

Claims (21)

A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a plurality of users to whom the same primary content is to be provided and associates the plurality of users;
Including,
The main content control unit
determining a given game as a primary content, and providing the primary content to the plurality of users associated by the matching control unit;
The matching control unit
A content provision system characterized by extracting multiple users to whom the same game is to be provided based on the desired conditions of each user used when determining the main content and the standby content, and matching the multiple users. A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who matches the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
Including,
The main content control unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the main content is provided to at least one of a plurality of users associated by the matching control unit. A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions for each user, including conditions regarding the content desired to be provided and conditions regarding other users, and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who matches the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
Including,
The standby content control unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the standby content is determined based on conditions relating to the other users that are included in the desired conditions of the user. In claim 2 or 3 ,
The main content control unit
determining a given game as the primary content;
The matching control unit
A content provision system characterized by extracting multiple users to whom the same game is to be provided based on the desired conditions of each user used when determining the main content and the standby content, and matching the multiple users. A content providing system for providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions of the user including conditions related to the content desired to be provided and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
Including,
The setting unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the desired conditions, which are used when determining the main content and the standby content, include conditions relating to other users and are set. In any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
The setting unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the main content is set based on information input by the user. In any one of claims 1 to 6 ,
The setting unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content are determined based on information input by the user. In any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
The standby content control unit
A content providing system characterized by controlling standby content to be provided to the user based on the length of the standby period. In any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
The content providing system further comprises a benefit providing unit that provides a benefit to the user based on a viewing status of the standby content. In claim 9 ,
The benefit granting unit
A content providing system, wherein the benefit is an item that the user can use in the main content. In claim 9 or 10 ,
The benefit granting unit
A content providing system, characterized in that the user's participation status in the waiting content is set as a viewing status of the waiting content. In any one of claims 1 to 11 ,
The content providing system further comprises a presentation unit that presents to the user a list of standby contents that can be provided to the user. In any one of claims 1 to 12 ,
The standby content control unit
A content providing system, comprising: determining a priority of a standby content based on the content of the standby content; and controlling the standby content to be provided to the user according to the priority. A server device that provides content to users,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a plurality of users to whom the same primary content is to be provided and associates the plurality of users;
Including,
The main content control unit
determining a given game as a primary content, and providing the primary content to the plurality of users associated by the matching control unit;
The matching control unit
A server device characterized by extracting multiple users to whom the same game is to be provided based on the desired conditions of each user used when determining the main content and the standby content, and associating the multiple users. A server device that provides content to users,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who matches the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
Including,
The main content control unit
A server device that provides the primary content to at least one of a plurality of users associated by the matching control unit. A server device that provides content to users,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions for each user, including conditions regarding the content desired to be provided and conditions regarding other users, and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who matches the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
Including,
The standby content control unit
A server device that determines the standby content based on conditions related to the other users that are included in the desired conditions of the user. A server device that provides content to users,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions of the user including conditions related to the content desired to be provided and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
Including,
The setting unit
A server device, characterized in that the desired conditions, which are used when determining the main content and the standby content, include conditions relating to other users and are set. A program that causes a computer to perform a process of providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
causing a computer to function as a matching control unit that extracts a plurality of users to whom the same primary content is to be provided and matches the plurality of users;
The main content control unit
determining a given game as a primary content, and providing the primary content to the plurality of users associated by the matching control unit;
The matching control unit
A program characterized by extracting multiple users to whom the same game is to be provided based on the desired conditions of each user, which are used when determining the main content and the standby content, and associating the multiple users. A program that causes a computer to perform a process of providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions including conditions related to the content desired to be provided for each user and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
causing a computer to function as a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who meets the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
The main content control unit
A program that provides the primary content to at least one of a plurality of users associated by the matching control unit. A program that causes a computer to perform a process of providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions for each user, including conditions regarding the content desired to be provided and conditions regarding other users, and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
a standby content control unit that determines standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and controls the standby content so as to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
causing a computer to function as a matching control unit that extracts a matching partner user who meets the desired conditions used when determining the main content and the standby content of the user, and associates the user with the matching partner user;
The standby content control unit
A program that determines the standby content based on conditions related to the other users that are included in the desired conditions of the user. A program that causes a computer to perform a process of providing content to a user,
a storage unit that stores a plurality of contents;
a setting unit that sets desired conditions of the user including conditions related to the content desired to be provided and determines main content based on the desired conditions;
a primary content control unit for providing the primary content to the user;
determining standby content for the user based on the desired conditions used when determining the primary content from the plurality of contents stored in the storage unit, and causing the computer to function as a standby content control unit that controls the standby content to be provided to the user during a standby period after the desired conditions are set and before a timing at which the primary content is to be provided;
The setting unit
A program for setting desired conditions including conditions relating to other users, which are used when determining the main content and the standby content.