JPWO1999008231A1 - Memory device, controller and electronic device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Abstract] This invention relates to a memory device with expanded functionality. The memory device has a case (12), a nonvolatile RAM (28) for storing information, an external connection terminal (18) for inputting and outputting information, a liquid crystal display (14) for displaying information, and operation buttons (16) for an operator to operate. When the memory device is connected to an external device, it inputs and outputs information such as backup data and programs stored in the nonvolatile RAM (28) via the external connection terminal (18). When not connected to an external device, the operation buttons (16) can be used to execute programs stored in the nonvolatile RAM (28) and display data on the liquid crystal display (14).

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] Memory Device, Controller, and Electronic Device [Technical Field] The present invention relates to a memory device having a memory for storing information within a case and a connection terminal for inputting and outputting information at one end of the case, as well as a controller and electronic device using the memory device.

[Background Art] In recent years, a wide variety of exciting games have been developed for home gaming devices, making them extremely popular forms of entertainment. As game content becomes more sophisticated, there is a growing demand for memory cards that temporarily store individual player game progress information and game settings. While some game devices have built-in backup memory, their memory capacity is typically small, so advanced games require a separate memory card. Memory cards are inserted into the game device's memory connector.

As mentioned above, conventional memory cards are inserted into game consoles to back up game data, and they have only one function.

Additionally, some players own multiple memory cards and back up game data for multiple games. However, when using multiple memory cards, it's easy to lose track of which memory card backed up what data, and the only way to check the stored contents is to insert the memory card into the game device and check it.

However, as the storage capacity of game programs increases, the scale of the games themselves also increases, creating the problem that the time required to complete a single game becomes too long, leading to player boredom. For this reason, attempts have been made to utilize large-capacity storage media to include a wide variety of games that can be played in a relatively short amount of time within a single game. For example, attempts have been made to include small sub-games within a main game, or to have multiple games make up the main game.

The inventors of this application therefore came up with the idea that by expanding the functionality of conventional memory cards to enable the execution of small games and using these memory cards to play a wide variety of sub-games, they could realize a new and interesting game system that had never been seen before.

An object of the present invention is to provide a memory device that expands the functionality of conventional memory devices.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a memory device that allows the contents of stored information to be verified.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a controller and an electronic device that utilizes a memory device with enhanced functionality.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a new game system using a memory device with expanded functionality.

[Disclosure of the Invention] The above objectives are achieved by a memory device having a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, and a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information. The memory device also has a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, and operation buttons provided on one side of the case for operation by an operator.

In the above-described memory device, the memory may be configured to store backup data and/or programs.

In the above-described memory device, one of the backup data and the program may be stored in the memory starting from a higher address and moving toward a lower address, and the other of the backup data and the program may be stored in the memory starting from a lower address and moving toward a higher address.

In the memory device described above, the display unit may be configured to display the contents stored in the memory.

In the above-described memory device, the operation button may be used to specify the contents stored in the memory and perform deletion processing or write-protect processing.

In the memory device described above, the memory may store a first program to be executed during stand-alone operation and a second program to be executed during connected operation, and the first program may be executed when the connection state of the connection terminal is not connected to an external device, and the second program may be executed when the connection state of the connection terminal is connected to an external device.

The above object is achieved by a game system having a game device main unit, a display device connected to the game device main unit, and a controller connected to the game device main unit, wherein the memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is attached to the attachment portion of the controller, and the display portion of the memory device displays a game screen separate from that of the display device.

In the above-described game system, a plurality of the controllers may be connected to the game device main body, each controller may be equipped with a memory device, and each memory device may display a different game screen on its display.

The above object is achieved by a game system having a game console, a display device connected to the game console, and a controller connected to the game console, wherein the memory device described above is attached to the controller's mounting portion, and data or programs are transferred from the game console to the memory device.

The above object is achieved by a game system having a game console, a display device connected to the game console, and a controller connected to the game console, wherein the memory device described above is attached to the controller's attachment portion, and data or programs are transferred from the memory device to the game console.

In the memory device described above, the connection terminals may include a first male connection terminal and a second female connection terminal.

The above object is achieved by a game system having two of the above-described memory devices, wherein the first connection terminal of one memory device is connected to the second connection terminal of the other memory device, and the second connection terminal of the one memory device is connected to the first connection terminal of the other memory device, thereby directly connecting the one memory device and the other memory device.

The above object is achieved by a memory device comprising a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information, a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving it in the memory.

The above objective is achieved by a memory device comprising a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information, a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, and a selection key for selecting desired information from multiple pieces of information.

The above objective is achieved by a memory device comprising a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information, a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, a selection key for selecting desired information from multiple pieces of information, and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving it in the memory.

The above object is achieved by a controller having predetermined operation keys and transmitting predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device, the controller having a mounting portion for mounting the above-mentioned memory device.

The above object is achieved by a controller having a mounting portion for mounting the above-mentioned memory device, a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information, and transmitting a predetermined instruction signal to an electronic device.

The above object is achieved by a controller having a mounting portion for mounting the above-mentioned memory device, a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory, and for sending a predetermined instruction signal to the electronic device.

The above object is achieved by a controller having a mounting portion for mounting the above-mentioned memory device, a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving it in the memory, and characterized in that it sends a predetermined instruction signal to the electronic device.

The above object is achieved by a controller comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a mounting section for mounting a memory device having a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving it in the memory; and the controller sends predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that sends predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting the above-mentioned memory device.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and the controller having a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and the controller having a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory.

The above object can be achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that sends predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, characterized in that the electronic device has a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory.

The above objective is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, characterized in that the electronic device has a mounting section for mounting the above-mentioned memory device, a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a saving means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving it in the memory.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a mounting portion for mounting a memory device having a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; a display portion provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the input information in the memory.

The above object can be achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, the controller having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and the electronic device having a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information.

The above object can be achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the controller having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, and the electronic device having a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the controller having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device described above, the electronic device having a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a saving means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory.

The above object is achieved by an electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the controller having a case, a memory device mounted within the case for storing information, a connection terminal at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information, and a display unit mounted on one side of the case for displaying information. The electronic device further comprises a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory.

In the electronic device described above, the selection means may select information based on a progress of a program.

In the above-described electronic device, the information selected based on the progress of the program may be a game program.

In the above-described electronic device, the saving means may be activated upon detecting that the memory is attached to the attachment portion of the electronic device.

In the electronic device described above, the save means may be activated upon detecting that the memory is connected to the mounting portion of the controller.

In the electronic device described above, the saving means may be activated upon detecting that a controller is connected to the electronic device.

The above objective is achieved by a gaming method for playing a main game having multiple scenes that progress through the multiple scenes in a predetermined order, characterized by selecting a sub-game based on the progress of the main game, saving the selected sub-game to a memory device attached to the game device, and playing the sub-game on the memory device.

The above objective is achieved by a memory device comprising a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, operation buttons provided on one side of the case relative to the display for user operation, and a connection terminal provided on the other side of the case relative to the display for inputting and outputting information.

The above object is achieved by a controller having predetermined operation keys and transmitting predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device, the controller having a mounting portion for mounting a memory device and having a window, wherein when the memory device is mounted in the mounting portion, a predetermined area of the memory device is exposed through the window.

The controller described above may further include an additional mounting portion for mounting a memory device.

The memory device to be attached to the controller described above may have a display unit for displaying information, and the display unit may be located in a position exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment unit of the controller.

The memory device attached to the controller described above may have a memo section on which handwritten notes can be written, and the memo section may be located in a position exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment section of the controller.

The memory device attached to the controller described above may have an operation button for an operator to operate, and the operation button may be located in a position that is exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment portion of the controller.

The memory device attached to the controller described above may have a microphone for inputting voice, and the microphone may be positioned so that it is exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment portion of the controller.

The above objective is achieved by a game system having two of the above-described memory devices, characterized in that by connecting the connection terminal of one memory device to the connection terminal of the other memory device, the display units of both memory devices are brought into close proximity and the operation buttons of both memory devices are directly connected so that they can be operated from both sides.

The above objective is achieved by a memory device comprising a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; operation buttons provided on one side of the case for an operator to operate; and an optical information input/output unit provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information via light.

In the above-described memory device, the optical information input/output unit may have a light-emitting unit that emits light and a light-receiving unit that receives light, and the light-emitting unit may be arranged to face the light-receiving unit of the optical information input/output unit of another memory device, and the light-receiving unit may be arranged to face the light-emitting unit of the optical information input/output unit of another memory device.

In the above-described memory device, the light receiving unit of the optical information input/output unit may convert received light into electrical energy to supply power.

The above object is achieved by a game system having two of the above-described memory devices, characterized in that the two memory devices are connected by aligning the light-emitting portion of the optical information input/output unit of one memory device with the light-receiving portion of the optical information input/output unit of the other memory device, and aligning the light-receiving portion of the optical information input/output unit of one memory device with the light-emitting portion of the optical information input/output unit of the other memory device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a six-view diagram showing the appearance of a memory card according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows the internal structure of a memory card according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a memory card according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the program structure of a memory card according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of a method for sharing nonvolatile RAM in a memory card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 2) illustrating a method for sharing nonvolatile RAM in a memory card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the appearance of a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the appearance of a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows the internal structure of a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention is connected to a controller.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention is connected to a controller.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which memory cards according to the second embodiment of the present invention are connected to each other by a connection cable.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a case where memory cards according to a second embodiment of the present invention are connected to each other.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a game system using a memory card as a sub-screen according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of a game system that stores game data on a memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of a game system in which a mini game is downloaded to a memory card to be used as a portable game machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of a game system according to a second embodiment of the present invention, in which a portion of the game on the game console is extracted as a mini-game and played on the memory card.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the appearance of a memory card according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 shows a direct connection state of a memory card according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the structure of a memory card connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a third embodiment of the present invention is connected to a controller of a game device.

FIG. 23 shows a state in which a memory card and an expansion unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention are connected to a controller of a game device.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a memory card according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention inserted into a game device.

FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing a memory card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention inserted into a game device.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 30 is a block diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 31 is a plan view showing a memory card according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing a memory card according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a plan view showing a controller according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view showing a controller according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing a game device main body according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a state in which memory cards according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention are connected to each other.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a memory card according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention when it is attached to a controller.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a state in which a memory card according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is attached to a controller.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing another example of a memory card according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention attached to a controller.

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing another example of a memory card according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention attached to a controller.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing another example of a memory card according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention attached to a controller.

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing another example of a memory card according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention attached to a controller.

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing the appearance of a memory card according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing the main parts of a memory card according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing the communication state of a memory card according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a block diagram of the essential parts of a memory card according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION First Embodiment A memory card according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 is a six-sided view showing the appearance of the memory card of this embodiment, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the memory card of this embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the memory card of this embodiment.

As shown in Figure 1, the memory card 10 of this embodiment has a small LCD (liquid crystal display) 14 on the upper surface of the case 12, and operation buttons 16 below the LCD 14 (Figure 1B). An external connection terminal 18 for connecting to an external device such as a game console is provided at the lower end of the front of the case 12, and a shutter 20 is provided behind the external connection terminal 18 to protect the internal circuitry from external dust and other elements (Figure 1C). A battery compartment 22 is provided at the upper back of the case 12, and a sound hole 24 for a buzzer (described below) is formed in the case below the battery compartment 22 (Figure 1E).

The memory card 10 has an internal structure as shown in Figure 2. Inside the case 12, a PCB board 26 is provided for mounting various electronic components. On the surface of the PCB board 26, a non-volatile RAM 28 for storing information and a CPU 30 for overall control are mounted. Two conductive rubber strips 32 are mounted on either side of the non-volatile RAM 28 and CPU 30 on the surface of the PCB board 26, and the LCD 14 is mounted on the conductive rubber strips 32. Below the CPU 30 on the surface of the PCB board 26, a button contact 34 for the operation button 16 is mounted. An external connection terminal 18 is formed on the PCB board 26 below the button contact 34.

A battery 36, which is the power source for the memory card 10, is mounted on the back side of the PCB board 26, a buzzer 38 is mounted below the battery 36, and a crystal oscillator 39 is mounted below the buzzer 38.

A block diagram of the memory card 10 is shown in Figure 3. The operation buttons 16, LCD 14, external connection terminal 18, non-volatile RAM 28, battery 36, and buzzer 38 are connected to a CPU 30 that controls the entire device. The CPU 30 has built-in ROM and RAM. An external device (not shown) is connected to the external connection terminal 18.

The CPU 30 controls the entire memory card 10. The basic control program is stored in the CPU 30's built-in ROM, and the CPU 30's built-in RAM is used as temporary memory when executing the program. The non-volatile RAM 28 stores backup data to be saved, but some or all of the non-volatile RAM 28 may also store executable programs such as games, as needed.

(Memory Card Program Structure) The program structure of the memory card 10 of this embodiment is shown in Figure 4. In Figure 4, the programs are modularized and listed in startup order from bottom to top.

The basic program that is started first is SUB-SYSTEM 40. SUB-SYSTEM 40 is a program that manages the connections between programs and external devices and manages all programs. Above SUB-SYSTEM 40 are SYSTEM 41 for external control mode and program LOADER 42. SUB-SYSTEM 40 starts either SYSTEM 41 for external control mode or program LOADER 42 depending on the connection status of the external connection terminal 18.

The external control mode system 41 is a program that communicates with the external device, i.e., the game console, and reads and switches the higher-level program. When the external connection terminal 18 is connected to an external device, the sub-system 40 activates the external control mode system 41.

Above the external control system 41 are a memory/download management program 43 and an LCD sub-monitor management program 44. The external control system 41 launches the memory/download management program 43 or the LCD sub-monitor management program 44 as needed.

The program LOADER 42 is a program that loads and switches host programs in response to button operations. When the external connection terminal 18 is not connected to an external device, the SUB-SYSTEM 40 activates the program LOADER 42.

Above the program LOADER 42 are a memory management program 45 and a portable game program 46. The program LOADER 42 starts the memory management program 45 or the portable game program 46 as needed.

(When connecting the memory card to an external device) This section explains how the memory card 10 operates when connected to an external device. When connected to an external device, the external device controls the memory card 10. Power is supplied from the external connection terminal 18; the battery 36 is not used. The SUB-SYSTEM 40 activates the external control mode SYSTEM 41 when the external connection terminal 18 is connected. The external control SYSTEM 41 activates the memory/download management program 43 or the LCD sub-monitor management program 44 as necessary.

Data input from an external device is analyzed by the external control system 41 to determine whether it is data for controlling the LCD 14 or data for controlling the nonvolatile RAM 28, and depending on the analysis results, the LCD sub-monitor management program 44 or the memory/download management program 43 is activated.

When controlling the LCD 14, the display control of the LCD 14 is performed, and content corresponding to data input from an external device is displayed on the LCD 14.

When controlling the nonvolatile RAM 28, data input from an external device is written to the nonvolatile RAM 28, and data is read from the nonvolatile RAM 28.

When writing data to memory card 10 from an external device, the data is output from the external device to memory card 10. The output data is input to CPU 30 via external connection terminal 18. CPU 30 converts and processes the data according to a program stored in the internal ROM and writes it to nonvolatile RAM 28. Nonvolatile RAM 28 stores and retains the converted and processed data.

To read data stored in nonvolatile RAM 28, an external device outputs a read request to memory card 10. CPU 30 reads the data from nonvolatile RAM 28 in response to the read request, converts the data, and outputs it to the external device via external connection terminal 18.

(When using the memory card alone) This section describes the operation of the memory card 10 when it is used alone, without connecting to an external device. Power is supplied from the battery 36. The SUB-SYSTEM 40 launches the program LOADER 42 when the external connection terminal 18 is connected. The program LOADER 42 launches the memory management program 45 or the portable game program 46 as needed. For example, the operation button 16 switches between memory mode and game mode, and launches the memory management program 45 in memory mode, and the portable game program 46 in game mode.

In memory mode, the contents of the nonvolatile RAM 28 are manipulated. The stored contents are converted into graphics by the CPU 30 and displayed on the LCD 14, and are manipulated using the operation buttons 16.

In game mode, a game stored in non-volatile RAM 28 is executed. For example, a stored portable game program 46 is executed, and a mini-game is played by operating operation buttons 16 using memory card 10 alone.

In the above-described embodiment, a part or all of the programs in the nonvolatile RAM 28 may be transferred to the RAM in the CPU 30 for operation.

In this embodiment, the non-volatile RAM 28 is used under the control of the CPU 30 as both an area for storing backup data and an area for storing downloaded programs.

If the operation button 16 is not operated for a certain period of time, the power is automatically turned off to save power.

(Sharing non-volatile RAM) The method for sharing non-volatile RAM 28 is explained using Figures 5 and 6.

When no data is stored, the entire area from address 0000 (hex) to address FFFF (hex) is empty, as shown in FIG. 5A.

Next, when recording a program, the program is recorded bottom-justified starting from address 0000, as shown in Figure 5B. The boundary address (address a) is determined based on the size of the program.

Next, when saving data, it is recorded top-justified starting from address FFFF, as shown in Figure 5C. The boundary address (address c) is determined based on the size of the saved data.

On the other hand, when data is recorded in nonvolatile RAM 28 in the state shown in FIG. 5A, the data is recorded top-justified starting from address FFFF, as shown in FIG. 5D. The boundary address (address b) is determined based on the size of the data to be saved.

Next, when additional data is to be recorded, the new data is recorded from the top of the previously recorded data, as shown in Figure 5E. The boundary address (address d) is determined based on the size of the data.

If a program is deleted from non-volatile RAM 28 in the state shown in Figure 6A (Figure 5C), as shown in Figure 6B, addresses 0000 to a become free space, with the boundary address becoming address c.

Next, when attempting to download a program ranging in size from address 0000 to address e, as shown in Figure 6C, if address e is less than address c, it can be recorded in non-volatile RAM 28. However, if address e is greater than address c, the capacity of non-volatile RAM 28 is insufficient, and the program cannot be downloaded, resulting in the situation shown in Figure 6D.

In this way, programs are stored bottom-justified in non-volatile RAM 28 starting from address 0000, and saved data is stored top-justified starting from address FFFF. Since each boundary address defines a non-transferable area, programs and data cannot be erased.

Conversely, the non-volatile RAM 28 area may be configured so that programs are recorded top-justified starting from address FFFF, and saved data is recorded bottom-justified starting from address 0000.

The non-volatile RAM 28 for storing game data and other information may be any memory capable of retaining stored content, such as flash memory or battery-backed memory.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the memory card is provided with an LCD and operation buttons, so that the stored contents can be displayed on the memory card itself and can be operated using the operation buttons, allowing it to be used in the same way as a small portable game console. Also, according to this embodiment, since it has an external connection terminal, by connecting it to a game device main body, controller, etc., a new game system as described below can be realized. Second Embodiment A memory card according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described using Figures 7 to 18.

7 and 8 show the external appearance of the memory card of this embodiment, and FIG. 9 shows the internal structure of the memory card of this embodiment. Components that are the same as or similar to those in the memory card of the first embodiment described above are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

As shown in FIG. 7 , the memory card 10 of this embodiment has a small LCD (liquid crystal display) 14 on the upper surface of the case 12, and operation buttons 16 below the LCD 14. The operation buttons 16 include directional buttons 16N, 16S, 16E, and 16W, a confirm button 16A, and a cancel button 16B. The rest of the configuration is the same as in the first embodiment.

The operation button 16 is active when the memory card 10 is used alone. When the memory card 10 is powered off, pressing the select button 16A turns the power on. Alternatively, a separate power switch (not shown) may be provided and used to turn the power on and off.

When the power is turned on, a menu of saved data, as shown in Figure 8A, is displayed on the LCD 14. The operator operates the directional buttons 16N, 16S, 16E, and 16W to move the cursor 14a, and selects the desired saved data from the menu of data, including, for example, Adventure #1, Role Playing, and Shooting SCORE, by pressing the Enter button 16A.

For example, if you select Adventure #1 by positioning cursor 14a as shown in Figure 8A, the processing menu shown in Figure 8B will be displayed. You can select ERASE, WRITE PROTECT, or CANCEL for the Adventure # program. This allows you to process data and programs stored on memory card 10 alone. If you select ERASE and press Enter button 16A, the Adventure #1 program will be deleted. If you select WRITE PROTECT and press Enter button 16A, the Adventure #1 program will no longer be able to be rewritten or erased. If you select CANCEL and press Enter button 16A, your previous selections will be voided.

When a game is selected, the functions of the directional buttons 16N, 16S, 16E, and 16W, the select button 16A, and the cancel button 16B are assigned according to the game program. For example, in a racing game, the directional buttons 16E and 16W are assigned to indicate the direction of travel, the select button 16A to accelerate, the cancel button 16B to brake, and pressing the directional buttons 16N and 16S simultaneously to pause the game are assigned functions.

The external connection terminal 18 of the memory card 10 of this embodiment has a structure as shown in Figure 9. Considering that the memory card 10 will be used alone, the case 12 is provided with a shutter 50 that covers the external connection terminal 18 to protect it from dust, dirt, electrical shorts, contacts, etc.

When the memory card 10 is not connected to an external device, the shutter 50 is biased outward by an internal spring 52 and is positioned at the outermost edge of the case 12. The shutter 50 protects the external connection terminals 18 inside the case 12 (Figs. 9A-D).

When the memory card 10 is connected to an external device, when the connector 54 of the external device is inserted, the guide pin 54a of the connector 54 pushes and opens the shutter 50, exposing the external connection terminal 14, which then comes into contact with the external connection terminal 14 (FIGS. 9E and 9F).

(Connection between memory card and external device) Next, the connection between memory card 10 and external devices will be described using Figures 10 to 14.

The following describes the case where the memory card 10 is connected to the game console 60. Figure 10 is a block diagram of the memory card 10 of this embodiment when connected to the game console 60.

The game device main body 60 is provided with a memory connector 62. The memory card 10 is inserted into the memory connector 62. The game device main body 60 is provided with a CPU 64, which is connected to a RAM 65, an external I/F 66, and the like via a bus 67. The external connection terminal 18 of the memory card 10 is connected to the memory connector 62, which is then connected to the CPU 64 and the like via the bus 67.

The following describes the case where the memory card 10 is connected to the controller 70 of a game device. Figure 11 shows the memory card 10 of this embodiment connected to the controller 70, and Figure 12 is a block diagram of the memory card 10 of this embodiment connected to the controller 70.

As shown in Figure 11, a start button 71 and a selector switch 72 are provided at the bottom center of the operation surface of the controller 70, an analog directional key 73 and a digital directional key 74 are provided on the left side of the operation surface for specifying directions, and six instruction buttons 75 are provided on the right side of the operation surface. A card slot 76 for inserting a memory card 10 is provided at the top of the operation surface of the controller. A memory connector 77 is provided inside the card slot 76.

As shown in FIG. 12 , the controller 70 is connected to the game console 60, and the memory card 10 is attached to the controller 70. The controller 70 is provided with a memory connector 77. The memory card 10 is attached to the memory connector 77. The controller 70 is provided with a control unit 78, to which operation units 71-75, such as buttons, are connected. The external connection terminal 18 of the memory card 10 is connected to the memory connector 77, which is then connected to the control unit 78 of the controller 70.

The following describes the case where memory cards 10 are connected to each other. Figure 13 shows memory cards 10 of this embodiment connected to each other with a connection cable 80, and Figure 14 is a block diagram of the case where memory cards 10 of this embodiment are connected to each other.

As shown in FIG. 13, connectors 81 and 82 are provided at both ends of a connection cable 80. Memory cards 10 are connected to the connectors 81 and 82, respectively, to connect the memory cards 10 to each other.

14, the external connection terminals 18 of each memory card 10 are connected to connectors 81 and 82 of a connection cable 80. The CPUs 30 of each memory card 10 are interconnected by the connection cable 80.

By connecting memory cards 10 together, it is possible to play online games and exchange data and programs.

(Game System Using a Memory Card) Next, a specific example of a novel game system using the memory card of this embodiment will be described using Figures 15 through 18.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a game system that uses a memory card as a sub-screen.

A number of controllers 70, one for each player, are connected to the game console 60. Memory cards 10 are inserted into the card slots 76 of the controllers 70. In this game system, the LCD 14 of the memory cards 10 inserted into the controllers 70 is used as a sub-screen for the main screen of the video monitor 80 connected to the game console 60.

For example, in a poker game, each player's cards are displayed face down on the video monitor 80, but the contents of their own hand are displayed on the LCD 14 of the memory card 10 of each player's controller 70. Each player progresses through the poker game while viewing the display on their own controller 70.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of a game system that stores game data on a memory card.

A memory card 10 is inserted into the card slot 76 of a controller 70 connected to a game console 60. The game is played on the game console 60 by operating the controller 70. To save game data during a game, the game data is downloaded from the game console 60 and stored in the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. The game data saved on the memory card 10 can be displayed on the LCD 14. Even if the memory card 10 is removed from the controller 70, the game data saved on the memory card 10 can be displayed on the LCD 14 for confirmation.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of a game system in which mini-games are downloaded onto a memory card and used as a portable game console.

A memory card 10 is inserted into the card slot 76 of a controller 70 connected to a game console 60. By operating the controller 70, mini-games are downloaded from the game console 60 and stored in the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. The player then removes the memory card 10 from the controller 70 and operates it as a standalone portable game console. By changing the games downloaded, a variety of mini-games can be enjoyed from a single memory card 10.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of a game system in which a portion of the game on the game console itself is extracted as a mini-game and played on the memory card.

First, a controller 70 with a memory card 10 inserted is connected to the game console 60 shown on the left side of Figure 18. The player operates the controller 70 while watching the video monitor 80 to play the game. For example, suppose the player is playing a fighting game and loses to the computer. The player downloads the fighting game mini-game to the memory card 10 along with the game data for the player's character.

Next, the player removes the memory card 10 and operates the device standalone to play the downloaded mini-game. In standalone operation, the player may play, for example, a training game, power up their character, and update the game data.

Once the player determines that their character has been powered up, they insert the memory card 10 into the controller 70 of the game console 60 (shown on the right side of Figure 18) and upload the game data for their character stored on the memory card 10 to the game console 60. In a fighting game using the game console 60, the player can fight with their powered-up character, making it possible to defeat the computer.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the memory card is provided with an LCD and operation buttons, allowing the stored contents to be displayed on the memory card itself and operation using the operation buttons, enabling use similar to that of a small portable game console. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the memory card has an external connection terminal, allowing a new game system to be realized by connecting it to a game console main unit, controller, etc. Third Embodiment: A memory card according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 19 to 23. Figure 19 shows the appearance of the memory card of this embodiment, Figure 20 shows the state in which memory cards of this embodiment are connected to each other, and Figure 21 shows the structure of the external connection terminal of the memory card of this embodiment. Components that are the same or similar to those of the memory cards of the first and second embodiments described above are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

As shown in FIG. 19 , the memory card 10 of this embodiment has a small LCD (liquid crystal display) 14 on the upper surface of the case 12, and operation buttons 16 below the LCD 14. The operation buttons 16 include a directional key 16X and instruction buttons 16A, 16B, and 16C. A pair of male and female connectors 90 and 95 are provided at the bottom of the case 12. The remaining configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

The connectors 90, 95 of the memory card 10 of this embodiment are a male-female pair, so that, as shown in FIG. 20, memory cards 10 can be directly connected to each other without using a connecting cord.

Details of the connectors 90, 95 are shown in Fig. 21. As shown in Fig. 21A, the female connector 90 and the male connector 95 are integrally provided at the bottom end of the case 12. As shown in the cross-sectional view of Fig. 21B and the bottom view of Fig. 21C, the female connector 90 has, for example, five female connector pins 92 arranged in a row, and the male connector 95 has, for example, five male connector pins 97 arranged in a row. The male connector pins 97 are enclosed and protected by a connector cover 95.

Because of this structure, when connecting memory cards 10 together, the male connector 95 of one memory card 10 is connected to the female connector 90 of the other memory card, and the female connector 90 of one memory card 10 is connected to the male connector 90 of the other memory card, as shown in Figure 21D, thereby directly connecting the memory cards 10 together.

Figure 22 shows the state in which the memory card 10 of this embodiment is connected to the controller 100 of a game device. The controller 100 has a card slot 101 at the top of its operation panel for inserting the memory card 10, and inside the card slot 101 is a pair of male and female connectors (not shown) with the same structure as the memory card 10. The memory card 10 is inserted into the card slot 101 of the controller 100 and connected to the connectors.

As shown in FIG. 23, other expansion units that expand the functionality of the controller 100, such as the vibration unit 104, may also use a connector with the same structure as the memory card of this embodiment. A male-female connector 103 is provided in the expansion unit mounting portion 102 of the controller 100. The vibration unit 104 is also provided with a connector (not shown) with the same structure, and when installed, the vibration unit 104 is attached to the expansion unit mounting portion 102.

By directly connecting memory cards 10 to each other, you can transfer saved data and game programs, and use two memory cards 10 to play more advanced games.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the memory card connectors are configured as a pair of male and female connectors, so that memory cards can be easily connected directly to each other without the need for a separate connector. Fourth Embodiment : A game system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The game system of this embodiment is characterized by the use of a memory card equipped with a display unit. The memory card can be connected to a controller or game device body, or removed from these and used alone. The game system of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

(Memory Card) The memory card used in the game system of this embodiment is, for example, the memory card according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 through 6, or the memory card according to the second embodiment shown in Figures 7 through 9. Details of these memory cards are as described above, so further explanation is omitted.

(When using the memory card alone) The operation of the memory card 10 when used alone without connecting it to an external device is explained using the memory card block diagram shown in Figure 3 and the memory card program structure shown in Figure 4.

Power is supplied from a battery 36. The SUB-SYSTEM 40 starts a program LOADER 42 when the external connection terminal 18 is connected. The program LOADER 42 starts a memory management program 45 or a portable game program 46 as needed. For example, the operation button 16 switches between memory mode and game mode, and in memory mode, the memory management program 45 is started, and in game mode, the portable game program 46 is started.

In memory mode, the contents of the nonvolatile RAM 28 are manipulated. The stored contents are converted into graphics by the CPU 30 and displayed on the LCD 14, and are manipulated using the operation buttons 16.

In game mode, a game stored in non-volatile RAM 28 is executed. For example, a stored portable game program 46 is executed, and a mini-game is played by operating operation buttons 16 using memory card 10 alone.

In the above-described embodiment, a part or all of the programs in the nonvolatile RAM 28 may be transferred to the RAM in the CPU 30 for operation.

In this embodiment, non-volatile RAM 28 is used under the control of CPU 30 as both an area for storing backup data and an area for storing downloaded programs.

If the operation button 16 is not operated for a certain period of time, the power is automatically turned off to save power.

(When connecting the memory card to an external device) The operation of the memory card 10 when connected to an external device is explained using the memory card block diagram shown in Figure 3 and the memory card program structure shown in Figure 4.

When connected to an external device, the external device controls the memory card 10. Power is supplied from the external connection terminal 18; the battery 36 is not used. The SUB-SYSTEM 40 activates the external control mode SYSTEM 41 when the external connection terminal 18 is connected. The external control SYSTEM 41 activates the memory/download management program 43 or the LCD sub-monitor management program 44 as necessary.

Data input from an external device is analyzed by the external control system 41 to determine whether it is data for controlling the LCD 14 or data for controlling the nonvolatile RAM 28, and depending on the analysis results, the LCD sub-monitor management program 44 or the memory/download management program 43 is activated.

When controlling the LCD 14, the display control of the LCD 14 is performed, and content corresponding to data input from an external device is displayed on the LCD 14.

When controlling the nonvolatile RAM 28, data input from an external device is written to the nonvolatile RAM 28, and data is read from the nonvolatile RAM 28.

When writing data to memory card 10 from an external device, the data is output from the external device to memory card 10. The output data is input to CPU 30 via external connection terminal 18. CPU 30 converts and processes the data according to a program stored in the internal ROM and writes it to nonvolatile RAM 28. Nonvolatile RAM 28 stores and retains the converted and processed data.

To read data stored in nonvolatile RAM 28, an external device outputs a read request to memory card 10. CPU 30 reads the data from nonvolatile RAM 28 in response to the read request, converts the data, and outputs it to the external device via external connection terminal 18.

(When Inserting a Memory Card into a Controller) The following describes the process of inserting a memory card 10 into a controller 70 connected to a game console 60, using Figures 24 through 26. Figure 24 shows the memory card 10 of this embodiment inserted into the controller 70, Figure 25 shows the details of the controller 70, and Figure 26 is a block diagram of the memory card 10 of this embodiment inserted into the controller 70.

As shown in FIG. 24, a video monitor 85 is connected to the game console 60 to display the game screen, and a controller 70 is connected to allow the player to control the game. A memory card 10 is inserted into the controller 70. This memory card 10 can be removed from the controller 70 and operated independently.

As shown in Figure 25, controller 70 has a start button 71 and a selector switch 72 located at the bottom center of the operation surface, an analog directional key 73 and a digital directional key 74 for specifying directions located on the left side of the operation surface, and six instruction buttons 75 located on the right side of the operation surface. A card slot 76 for inserting memory card 10 is located at the top of the operation surface of controller 70. A memory connector 77 is located inside card slot 76.

As shown in Figure 25, the card slot 76 has a large opening at the front so that most of the front of the memory card 10 is exposed when the memory card 10 is inserted. This allows the player to view the LCD 14 of the memory card 10 while the memory card 10 is inserted into the controller 70 and operate the operation buttons 16 below the LCD 14 (directional buttons 16N, 16S, 16E, 16W, enter button 16A, and cancel button 16B).

As shown in FIG. 26, the game console 60 is provided with a memory connector 62 and a controller connector 63. The memory connector 62 is for inserting a memory card 10, and the controller connector 63 is for connecting a controller 70. The game console 60 is provided with a CPU 64, which is connected to a RAM 65, an external I/F 66, and the like via a bus 67. The memory connector 62 and the controller connector 63 are connected to the external I/F 66.

The controller 70 is connected to the game device main unit 60 via the controller connector 63 and connector 79. The memory card 10 is attached to the controller 70. The controller 70 is provided with a memory connector 77. The memory card 10 is attached to the memory connector 77. The controller 70 is provided with a control unit 78, to which operation units 71-75, such as buttons, are connected. The external connection terminal 18 of the memory card 10 is connected to the memory connector 77, which is then connected to the control unit 78 of the controller 70.

(Data Selection and Data Saving Operations When a Memory Card is Inserted into the Controller) Next, we will explain how to select data to store on the memory card 10 and how to save data to the memory card 10.

A first example of the data selection and save operations is performed using the keys of the controller 70.

A plurality of selectable data items are displayed on all or part of the video monitor 85, and the player operates the cursor with the analog directional keys 73 or digital directional keys on the controller 70 and makes a selection using a predetermined instruction button 75. When the player further operates a predetermined instruction button 75, the selected data is saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Instead of the video monitor 85, a plurality of selectable data items may be displayed on all or part of the LCD 14 of the memory card 10.

According to this example, the player can select and save data using the controller 70 that he or she is familiar with, thereby preventing operational errors.

A second example of the data selection and saving operations is performed using the keys on the memory card 10.

A plurality of selectable data items is displayed on all or part of the video monitor 85, and the player operates the cursor using the directional buttons 16N-16W on the memory card 10 and makes a selection using the decision button 16A. When the player operates the decision button 16A, the selected data item is saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Instead of the video monitor 85, a plurality of selectable data items may be displayed on all or part of the LCD 14 of the memory card 10.

According to this example, data selection and data saving operations can be performed during a game, independently of the key operations on the controller 70, without interrupting the game. Typically, during a game, the controller is assigned buttons used in the game. If a save operation is performed during the game, these button assignments are temporarily changed, which can easily lead to incorrect operation by the player. This example effectively prevents such incorrect operation.

The third specific example of the data selection operation and save operation is one in which data selection is performed without operating any keys on the controller 70 or memory card 10.

The multiple selectable data items appear sequentially as the game progresses. The player saves the data by, for example, operating a specific key on the controller 70 or memory card 10 while on the game screen associated with the data to be saved. Performing a save operation on a specific game screen during game progress constitutes a game selection operation. Information about the data to be saved may be displayed on the video monitor 85 or LCD 14 during the game screen.

According to this example, the player can perform data selection and data saving operations without being particularly aware of them.

The fourth specific example of the data selection operation and save operation is to save data without operating any keys on the controller 70 or memory card 10.

In the above-described specific example, if the memory card 10 is inserted when the data to be saved is selected, the data is automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Alternatively, if the memory card 10 is inserted when the data is selected, the insertion may be detected and the data may be automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10.

Furthermore, if the controller 70 with the memory card 10 attached is connected to the game console 60, the data is automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Alternatively, when the controller 70 is connected to the game console 60, the connection may be detected and the data may be automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10.

According to this example, the player can automatically save data without even thinking about it.

The data selection operations and data saving operations of the first to fourth specific examples described above may be combined in any manner. For example, the data selection operation of the first specific example may be combined with the data saving operation of the second specific example.

(When Inserting a Memory Card into a Game Console) Connecting a memory card 10 to a game console 60 will be described using Figures 27 and 28. Figure 27 shows the memory card 10 of this embodiment inserted into the game console 60, and Figure 28 is a block diagram of the memory card 10 of this embodiment connected to the game console 60.

As shown in FIG. 27, a video monitor 85 is connected to the game console 60 to display the game screen, and a controller 70 is connected to allow the player to control the game. A memory card 10 is inserted into the game console 60. This memory card 10 can be removed from the game console 60 and operated independently.

As shown in Figure 28, the memory card 10 is connected to the memory connector 62 of the game device main unit 60. The external connection terminal 18 of the memory card 10 is connected to the memory connector 62, and is then connected to the CPU 64 and other components via a bus 67. The rest of the configuration is the same as in the block diagram of Figure 10, so a description thereof will be omitted.

(Data Selection and Data Saving Operations When a Memory Card is Inserted into the Game Console) Next, we will explain how to select data to store on the memory card 10 and how to save data to the memory card 10.

A first example of the data selection and save operations is performed using the keys of the controller 70.

A plurality of selectable data items are displayed on all or part of the video monitor 85, and the player operates the cursor using the analog directional keys 73 or digital directional keys on the controller 70 and confirms the selection by pressing a predetermined instruction button 75. When the player further operates a predetermined instruction button 75, the selected data is saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Instead of the video monitor 85, a plurality of selectable data items may be displayed on all or part of the LCD 14 of the memory card 10.

According to this example, the player can select and save data using the controller 70 that he or she is familiar with, thereby preventing operational errors.

A second example of the data selection and saving operations is performed using the keys on the memory card 10.

A plurality of selectable data items is displayed on all or part of the video monitor 85, and the player operates the cursor using the directional buttons 16N-16W on the memory card 10 and confirms the selection using the select button 16A. When the player operates the select button 16A, the selected data item is saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Instead of the video monitor 85, a plurality of selectable data items may be displayed on all or part of the LCD 14 of the memory card 10.

According to this example, even during a game, data selection and data saving operations can be performed independently of key operations on the controller 70 without interrupting the game.

The third specific example of the data selection operation and save operation is one in which data selection is performed without operating any keys on the controller 70 or memory card 10.

The multiple selectable data items appear sequentially as the game progresses. The player saves the data by, for example, operating a specific key on the controller 70 or memory card 10 while on the game screen associated with the data to be saved. The player performs a save operation on a specific game screen as the game progresses, without any particular awareness on his or her part. Information about the data to be saved may be displayed on the video monitor 85 or LCD 14 during the game screen.

According to this example, the player can perform data selection and data saving operations without being particularly aware of them.

A fourth specific example of the data selection operation and save operation is to save data without operating any keys on the controller 70 or memory card 10.

In the above-described specific example, if the memory card 10 is inserted when the data to be saved is selected, the data is automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10. Alternatively, if the memory card 10 is inserted when the data is selected, the insertion may be detected and the data may be automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10.

Furthermore, when the controller 70 is connected to the game console 60, data is automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10 installed in the game console 60. Alternatively, when the controller 70 is connected to the game console 60, the connection may be detected and data may be automatically saved to the non-volatile RAM 28 of the memory card 10 installed in the game console 60.

According to this example, the player can automatically save data without even thinking about it.

The data selection operations and data saving operations of the first to fourth specific examples described above may be combined in any manner. For example, the data selection operation of the first specific example may be combined with the data saving operation of the second specific example.

According to this embodiment, the functionality of the memory card is expanded, allowing data selected by the player to be saved from the game device main body to the memory card, and various sub-games to be played on the memory card. Fifth Embodiment A game system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described using Figures 29 and 30. Figure 29 is a diagram showing the controller of this embodiment, and Figure 30 is a block diagram of the game system of this embodiment.

In the game system of this embodiment, a slave game device is attached to the controller of a master game device. The game device main body of the fourth embodiment corresponds to the master game device of this embodiment, and the memory card of the fourth embodiment corresponds to the slave game device of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 29 , the controller 100 used in the game system of this embodiment has a cross key 105 for specifying directions on the left side of the operation surface and six instruction buttons 106 on the right side of the operation surface. A card slot 107 for inserting a child game device 120 is provided in the upper center of the operation surface of the controller 100. The card slot 107 has an opening 108 in its center, and two auxiliary buttons 110 are provided below the opening 108.

As shown in FIG. 13, the slave game machine 120 has a small LCD 124 on the upper surface of the case 122, and operation buttons 126 below the LCD 124. As will be described later, the operation buttons 126 can function as a selection key for selecting desired information from multiple pieces of information, or as a save key for inputting information and saving it to memory. An external connection terminal (not shown) is provided at the lower end of the front of the case 122 for connecting to an external device such as a game console.

The slave game device 120 is inserted into the card slot 107 of the controller 100. When inserted into the card slot 107, the slave game device 120's LCD 124 can be seen through the opening 108 of the controller 100, and its operation buttons 126 can be operated using the auxiliary buttons 110 of the controller 100. Operations on the small operation buttons 126 of the slave game device 120 are converted into operations on the large auxiliary buttons 110 of the controller 100, allowing for quick and reliable operation.

The slave game device 120 may be locked to prevent accidental removal from the controller 100. The locking mechanism is preferably provided on the controller 100, and is preferably configured to be locked at least during the save operation.

However, if the locking mechanism is located on the controller 100, it is hidden inside, making it difficult for the player to confirm its operating status. If the locking mechanism is set to automatically activate during a save operation, it will activate even if the slave game device 120 is not attached. Attempting to attach the slave game device 120 at this time could potentially destroy the locking mechanism. Therefore, it is desirable to assign an operation key on the slave game device 120 as the operation key for instructing the save operation. Performing the save operation using an operation key on the slave game device 120 eliminates the risk of the save operation being executed when the slave game device 120 is not attached.

In this way, according to this embodiment, the operation keys of the controller of the master game machine can be used to operate the operation keys of the slave game machine.

(Game System) Next, the game system of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 30.

The game system of this embodiment is composed of a parent game device 150 and a child game device 120. If necessary, the child game device 120 can be attached to the parent game device 150 to exchange data such as sub-games and game results.

The parent game device 150 executes the main game and inputs and outputs game programs and game data to and from the child game device 120. The main game progress control means 152 primarily controls the progress of the main game played on the parent game device 150, i.e., the main game. The main game progress control means 152 is connected to a display means 180 that displays game screens and the like.

The user character data storage area 154 stores data such as the user character's defensive power, offensive power, speed, and weight. The current game progress state, which is being advanced by the main game progress control means 152, is stored in the game progress state storage means 156, and the game progress up to the present is stored in the game progress storage means 158.

In addition to the main game program, multiple sub-games 1 through 4 are stored in main memory 166. Main memory 166 is connected to bus line 172 via interface 158.

When the progress of the main game reaches a predetermined progress state, i.e., when the game progress state stored in the game progress state storage means 156 reaches a predetermined progress state, the game providing means 160 outputs a predetermined sub game from the main memory 166 to the sub game storage area 162. The sub game storage area 162 stores the output sub game.

The insertion determination means 164 determines whether a slave game device 120 (described below) is connected to the connector 170. As described below, based on this determination, operations such as saving the sub game on the slave game device 120 are performed.

The slave game device 120 executes the sub game and inputs and outputs the sub game and game data to and from the master game device 150. The sub game progress processing means 125 primarily controls the progress of the game played auxiliary on the slave game device 120, i.e., the sub game. The sub game progress processing means 152 is connected to a display means 180 that displays game screens and the like, and an input means 126 such as keys operated by the player.

The sub game memory area 128 stores data such as the defensive power, offensive power, speed, and weight of the user character in the sub game. The sub game memory area 128 is connected to a connector 132 via an interface 130.

(Examples of game progression) Next, we will explain examples of game progression.

In a first example, a specific sub-game is executed depending on the progress of the main game. The main game is executed by the parent game console 150. Depending on the progress of the main game, the parent game console 150 provides a predetermined sub-game to the child game console 120.

The slave game device 120 automatically saves the output sub-game. The player can enjoy the sub-game on the slave game device 120 independently of the main game on the master game device 150.

The subgames offered can be any subgame related to the main game.

Simply, sub-games may be provided that correspond to the progress of the main game, i.e., the stages reached in the game. For example, if the main game starts at stage 1 and is cleared in order of stage 2, stage 3, ..., stage 5, sub-games 1 through 5 may be provided that correspond to the current stage.

Furthermore, even within the same sub-game, game data such as characters and difficulty level may be varied depending on the progress of the game up to that point. For example, the difficulty level may be changed depending on the time it takes to reach a particular stage. If the time to reach a stage is short, the difficulty level may be increased according to the player's ability, and if the time to reach a stage is long, the difficulty level may be decreased according to the player's ability. Conversely, if the time to reach a stage is short, the difficulty level may be decreased as a reward, and if the time to reach a stage is long, the difficulty level may be increased as a punishment.

Furthermore, even if the game stage is the same, different sub-games may be offered depending on the progress of the game up to that point, such as the time it took to reach the stage or the score. For example, the difficulty of the game may be changed depending on the score of that stage. The difficulty may be lowered as a reward for players with high scores, and increased as a punishment for players with low scores. Conversely, the difficulty may be increased for players with high scores based on their abilities, and decreased for players with low scores based on their abilities.

As mentioned above, sub-games related to the main game may be games related to the main game's scenario, or may be games that use the same characters as the main game, and may take any form as long as the main game is involved in providing the sub-game.

After a player executes a sub game on the slave game device 120, the game results of the sub game may be transferred to the master game device 150, and parameters of the main game, such as the progress of the main game, character data, difficulty level, etc., may be changed.

As a second specific example, a fighting game will be described.

When the main game begins, the player decides which character they will control, registers a name of their choice for their character, and begins the game. This character's parameters, such as attack power, defense power, speed, weight, and endurance, are set to initial values and stored in the user character data storage area 154. The player may set these values within a certain range. For example, the overall value is set to 100, and the player allocates ability scores to each parameter.

As the main game progresses, the player's character's parameters increase or decrease from time to time. That is, the player's character's parameters increase or decrease depending on the outcome of fighting matches in the main game.

In this example fighting game, the first stage is the prefectural tournament, and the second stage is the national tournament. If you win the prefectural tournament in the first stage, you can advance to the national tournament in the second stage.

In the first stage, a prefectural tournament, a tournament is held between six players representing each district. The player plays the main game using the parent game machine, and controls his or her character to perform various techniques by operating buttons, engaging in a fighting game with an opponent. At this time, the game progress status storage means 156 stores "1," which indicates the first stage.

The game providing means 160 reads out the sub game 1 for the first stage from the main memory 166 and stores it in advance in the sub game storage area 162.

At this time, when the slave game machine 120 is connected to the master game machine 150, the insertion determination means 164 detects that the slave game machine 120 has been inserted, and the game providing means 160 outputs sub game 1 accumulated in the sub game accumulation area 162 to the slave game machine 120 and stores it in the sub game accumulation area 128.

Subgame 1 is a simple game in which players compete to see how many times they can press an operation button within 10 seconds. The player operates the buttons 110 on the controller 100 while the slave game device 120 is connected to the master game device 150. The slave game device 120 may be detached from the master game device 150, and subgame 1 may be played on the slave game device 120 alone.

In sub-game 1, for example, the player's character is displayed on a background screen that resembles a schoolyard, and the character performs push-ups in response to the player's button operations on the sub-game device 120. Points are awarded depending on how many push-ups the character is able to perform in, for example, 10 seconds.

The score data awarded in subgame 1 is output to the parent game machine 150 and reflected in the main game. For example, the strength parameters of the player's character in the main game are increased in accordance with the score in subgame 1. Therefore, by diligently playing subgame 1, the player can improve the parameters of his or her character in the main game.

When the game advances to the second stage, the national tournament, the data stored in the game progress status storage means 156 is updated to "2," indicating the second stage. The game providing means 160 reads sub game 2 for the second stage from the main memory 166 and stores it in advance in the sub game storage area 162.

Subgame 2, which corresponds to the second stage, offers a slightly more advanced minigame. For example, it is a food acquisition game in which players acquire food needed to build their character's stamina and regulate their bodily functions. Players whose characters have not yet achieved sufficient stamina as a result of progressing through the main game can actively acquire food that will specifically improve their stamina in this food acquisition game. When returning to the main game from Subgame 2, the player's character's stamina can be improved using the food acquired in Subgame 2.

Thus, according to this embodiment, by providing sub-games as appropriate according to the progress of the main game, the player's motivation to progress in the main game increases, and interest can be maintained even in long games. Furthermore, by allowing the results of sub-games to affect the parameters of the main game, a game system rich in variety can be realized. Sixth Embodiment A game system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 31 to 43. The game system of this embodiment is characterized by the use of a memory card equipped with a display unit. The memory card can be used by connecting it to a controller or game device main body, or by removing it from these and using it alone, or by connecting memory cards together. The game system of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

(Memory Card) The memory card of this embodiment will be described using Figures 31 and 32. Figure 31 shows the external appearance of the memory card of this embodiment, and Figure 32 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the memory card of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 31 , the memory card 200 of this embodiment has a small LCD (liquid crystal display) 204 on the upper surface of the case 202, and operation buttons 206 below the LCD 204. The operation buttons 206 include a direction key 206X and instruction buttons 206A, 206B, 206C, and 206D.

A feature of the memory card 200 of this embodiment is that, as shown in FIG. 32, connectors 210 and 212 are provided at the top end of the case 202, i.e., above the LCD 204. When used alone, connectors 210 and 212 are covered with connector caps 208. As in the above-described embodiment, these connectors 210 and 212 are paired, male and female, so memory cards 200 can be directly connected to each other without using a connection cord.

Additionally, guide grooves 214 are provided on both sides of the case 202 of the memory card 200, which allow for smooth insertion into the slots of the controller or game console. Furthermore, tabs 216 are provided on both sides of the case 202 of the memory card 200, which allow for easy gripping and removal of the memory card 200.

(Controller) The controller according to this embodiment will be described using Figures 33 and 34.

FIG. 33 is a plan view of the controller of this embodiment, and FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the controller of this embodiment.

A start button 222 is provided at the bottom center of the front operation surface of the controller 220. An analog directional key 224 and a digital directional key 226 for specifying directions are provided on the left side of the front operation surface, and four instruction buttons 228A, 228B, 228C, and 228D are provided on the right side of the front operation surface. An instruction lever 232L (not shown) is provided on the operation surface behind the handle portion 230L of the controller 220, and an instruction lever 232R is provided on the operation surface behind the handle portion 230R.

As described above, the controller 220 of this embodiment has an analog directional key 224, a digital directional key 226, a start button 222, and command buttons 228A, 228B, 228C, and 228D on the front operation surface, and command levers 232L (not shown) and 232R on the rear operation surface of the handles 230L and 230R.

The start button 222 is a command button that can input a single command with a single press. Because it is located in the lower center of the front control panel, it is difficult to press frequently. Therefore, it is primarily used for commands that do not need to be pressed during the game, such as starting the game.

The analog directional key 224 provides continuous directional commands in any direction, known as analog directional commands, while the digital directional key 226 provides discrete directional commands in only eight predetermined directions, known as digital directional commands. The analog directional key 224 and digital directional key 226 are located on the left side of the front control panel and are typically operated by the player using the thumb of their left hand.

Command buttons 228A, 228B, 228C, and 228D are command buttons that can input a single command with a single press. These command buttons 228A, 228B, 228C, and 228D are located on the right side of the front operation surface 220a, and are typically operated by the player using the thumb of their right hand.

The instruction levers 232L, 232R can input continuously changing instruction amounts by pulling them toward themselves. When the player holds the controller in each hand, the instruction levers 232L, 232R are operated by pulling them toward themselves with fingers other than the thumb, such as the index finger or middle finger. Operating the instruction levers 232L, 232R rotates a control lever (not shown), allowing the player to issue continuously changing instruction amounts corresponding to the rotation angle of the control lever.

A slot 234 for inserting a memory card 200 is provided on the top of the controller 220. As shown in FIG. 34, the slot 234 is formed into two tiers, upper and lower slots 234A and 234B, each of which can accept a memory card 200.

A window 236 is opened at the top of the front operation panel of the controller 220, allowing a portion of the memory card 200 inserted above to be visually inspected. How to use this window 236 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 33, the connection cable 238 of the controller 220 protrudes toward the player from between the left and right handle portions 230L, 230R. A connector 240 for connecting to the game console is provided at the end of the connection cable 238. In this manner, in this embodiment, the connection cable 238 for connecting to the game console is provided so that it protrudes forward from the center of the rear of the controller 220, improving the balance of the center of gravity of the entire controller 220. Even when the player swings the controller around to operate it, the weight of the connection cable 238 is less noticeable and does not get in the way.

(Game Device Main Unit) The game device main unit according to this embodiment will be described using Figure 35. Figure 35 is a perspective view of the game device main unit according to this embodiment.

An openable circular cover 252 is located in the center of the top surface of the game device main body 250, with a power switch 254 and an open/close switch 256 located on either side. Pressing the open/close switch 256 opens the cover 252. By opening the cover 252, a CD-ROM or other disc containing a game program can be inserted into the game device main body 250.

Four connectors 258 are provided on the front side of the game device main body 250. The connector 240 of the controller 220 is connected to one of these connectors 258.

(Connecting memory cards) Connecting memory cards is explained using Figure 36.

As described above, in the memory card 200 of this embodiment, the male-female connectors 210, 212 are provided at the top end of the case 202, i.e., above the LCD 204. Therefore, memory cards 200 can be directly connected to each other without using a connection cord, and the LCDs 204 are connected facing each other, as shown in FIG. 36.

Therefore, while the cards are connected, each player can operate the operation buttons 206 on each memory card 200, i.e., the directional key 206X and instruction buttons 206A, 206B, 206C, and 206D. This allows data to be exchanged between the two memory cards 200 while they are directly connected. Furthermore, games can be played while the memory cards 200 are directly connected, allowing for the realization of new genres of games not previously available.

(When inserting a memory card into the controller) The following explains how to insert a memory card into the controller, using Figures 37 through 39.

Figure 37 shows the memory card 200 of this embodiment inserted into the controller 220. The memory card used is the LCD-equipped memory card 200 shown in Figure 31. The memory cap 208 is removed from the memory card 200, and the memory card is inserted into the upper slot 234 of the controller 220 with the connectors 210 and 212 facing downwards. The LCD 204 of the memory card 200 can be seen through the window 236 in the controller 200.

The controller 220 of this embodiment has an ingenious shape that makes it easy to view the LCD 204 of the inserted memory card 200 through the window 236.

The first innovation is the cross-sectional shape of the window 236. The surface of the LCD 204 of the memory card 200 is located inside the window 236, and the shadow of the window 236 frame is cast on the surface of the LCD 204, making it difficult to see. For this reason, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 38, the frame of the window 236 of the controller 220 is angled to prevent the shadow from being cast on the LCD 204 as much as possible.

The second innovation is the overall shape of the controller 200. While the controller 200 of this embodiment can be operated by hand, it is often operated while placed on a desk. The controller 200 is supported by a protrusion below the central slot 234 and by left and right handles 232L, 232R. In this embodiment, the overall shape is designed so that when the controller 200 is placed on a desk, the surface of the window 236 of the controller 200 faces diagonally toward the player, providing an easy-to-view angle for the LCD 204, as shown in FIG. 39.

(Other Memory Cards) In this embodiment, types of memory cards other than the LCD-equipped memory card 200 shown in Figure 31 can be used. Specific examples of other types of memory cards are described below using drawings.

The first specific example will be described using Figure 39. This example is a memory card with built-in memory only, without an LCD or operation buttons. In this embodiment, the controller 220 has two slots, upper and lower, 234A and 234B. As shown in Figure 39, a memory card 200 with an LCD is inserted into the upper slot 234A, and a memory card 260 with built-in memory only is inserted into the lower slot 234B. This allows for increased memory capacity.

A second specific example will be described using FIG. 40. This example also features a memory card 260 with built-in memory only, with no LCD or operation buttons. It is anticipated that the card will be inserted into the upper slot 234A of the controller 220, and as shown in FIG. 40, a memo label 262 is provided in a position visible through the window 236 when the card is inserted. While operating the controller 220, the player can check the contents of the inserted memory card 260 and write memos while the card is connected to the controller 220.

A third specific example will be described with reference to FIG. 41. This example is a memory card 270 equipped with operation buttons 272. When the memory card 270 is inserted into the upper slot 234A of the controller 220, the operation buttons 272 are positioned in the window 236, as shown in FIG. 41. The player uses the operation buttons 272 on the memory card 270 to issue commands to the memory card 270 or to perform auxiliary game operations separate from the operation of the controller 220.

A fourth specific example will be described with reference to FIG. 42. This example is a memory card 280 equipped with a microphone 282. When the memory card 280 is inserted into the upper slot 234A of the controller 220, the microphone 282 is positioned in the window 236, as shown in FIG. 42. By speaking into the microphone 282 of the memory card 280, the player can issue commands to the memory card 270 or perform auxiliary game operations separate from the operation of the controller 220.

A fifth specific example will be described with reference to FIG. 43. This specific example is a memory card 290 equipped with a miniature camera 292. The miniature camera 292 is provided on the side of the memory card 290 opposite the connector. When the miniature camera 292 is inserted into the upper slot 234A or the lower slot 234B of the controller 220, as shown in FIG. 43, the miniature camera 292 protrudes from the top of the controller 220. This allows photographs to be taken while the miniature camera 292 is inserted into the controller 220. Seventh Embodiment A memory card according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 44 to 47. FIG. 44 is a diagram showing the appearance of the memory card of this embodiment, FIG. 45 is a diagram showing the main components of the memory card of this embodiment, FIG. 46 is a diagram showing the communication state of the memory card of this embodiment, and FIG. 47 is a block diagram of the main components of the memory card of this embodiment.

In the memory card 300 of this embodiment, a main body 302 is provided with an LCD screen 304 and operation buttons 306. The player plays the game by operating the operation buttons 306 while looking at the LCD screen 304. The main body 302 is further provided with a light-emitting element 308 and a light-receiving element 310.

As shown in Fig. 45, the light-emitting section 308 is provided with a light-emitting diode 308a, which is a light-emitting element, and an enclosure 308b for protecting the light-emitting diode 308a. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 45, the light-receiving section 310 is provided with a photodiode 310a, which is a light-emitting element, and a holder 308b for protecting the photodiode 310a.

The light receiving unit 310 detects light from a light source such as the sun or a fluorescent lamp, and functions as a power supply means that stores the light as electrical energy. In other words, the light receiving unit 310 functions as a solar cell, and the electrical energy obtained here is used as a power source for the memory card 300.

The light receiving unit 310 functions as a receiving means for communication with the outside world. For example, it receives an optical signal from the light emitting unit 308 of another memory card 300 and converts it into an electrical signal to transmit and receive data.

As shown in FIG. 45, the light-emitting unit 308 and the light-receiving unit 310 are offset from each other so as not to overlap in the X and Z directions of the main body 302 of the memory card 300.

In such a configuration, data communication between memory cards 300 is performed by arranging the memory cards 300 so that the enclosure 308b of the light-emitting portion 308 of one memory card 300 faces the holding portion 310b of the light-receiving portion 310 of the other memory card 300, and so that the holding portion 310b of the light-receiving portion 310 of one memory card 300 faces the enclosure 308b of the light-emitting portion 308 of the other memory card 300, as shown in FIG.

By arranging them in this manner, the light-emitting diode 308a of one memory card 300 faces the photodiode 310a of the other memory card 300, and the light-emitting diode 308a of the other memory card 300 faces the photodiode 310a of one memory card 300, enabling data communication between the memory cards 300.

Furthermore, because the light-emitting element 308 and light-receiving element 310 are located above the LCD screen 304 of the memory card 300, each player can operate the operation button 306 while viewing the LCD screen 304 while communicating data between memory cards 300. Furthermore, each player can check the illumination status and positional deviation of the light-emitting element 308 of each other's memory cards 300, allowing them to play the game while monitoring the status of data communication.

Next, the light emitting unit 308 and the light receiving unit 310 of the memory card 300 of this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

When photodiode 310a detects light, an electric charge is generated. The generated electric charge flows through the circuit as a current, but is separated into a DC component and an AC component by coil L0 and capacitor C0, respectively.

When data communication is not taking place, the photodiode 310a detects light, such as sunlight, generating an electric charge. This electric charge passes through the constant voltage circuit 320 as a direct current and is stored as electrical energy in the capacitors C1 and C2. In this way, the light receiving unit 310 functions as a solar cell, and this stored electrical energy powers the computing device 330.

The computing device 330 is composed of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. A game program is stored in, for example, the ROM, and executed by the CPU. The CPU of the computing device 330 controls the LCD screen 304, the light-emitting diode 308a of the light-emitting unit 308, the speaker 312, etc.

During data communication, a light on/off signal or a light intensity signal of a predetermined frequency from the light-emitting diode 308a of the light-emitting unit 308 of one of the two communicating memory cards 300 is converted into an AC current by the photodiode 310a of the other memory card 300. This AC signal has predetermined noise components of frequencies such as those of fluorescent lights removed by the filter 332, and is then input to the A/D conversion circuit 334. This electrical signal is input as a digital signal to the arithmetic unit 330, where predetermined control is performed.

As described above, according to this embodiment, since the power source is obtained from light energy, batteries are not required, and the main body 302 can be made smaller and lighter. Furthermore, since no batteries are used, accidents such as children swallowing batteries can be prevented. Furthermore, since there is no need to replace batteries, the main body 302 can be made sealed and fully waterproof.

Furthermore, this embodiment enables data communication with external devices. Taking a virtual pet raising game as an example, this allows for the realization of a more sophisticated virtual pet raising game, such as exchanging character data raised on different memory cards, breeding characters, and exchanging genetic information. Furthermore, by enabling data exchange with game devices installed on street corners, it becomes possible to print out the raising data and exchange data with an unspecified number of players.

Furthermore, this embodiment provides a function for measuring the charge stored internally. When the charge stored in capacitors C1 and C2 decreases, the game character may, for example, display a hunger sign on LCD screen 304, thereby informing the player that charging is necessary. The player charges memory card 300 by holding it under sunlight or fluorescent light. This gives the player the sensation that the game character is feeding on the light, allowing them to charge the memory card with the same feeling as raising a character.

In the above description of this embodiment, data is received by optical signals from the light-emitting portion 308 of another memory card 300 or optical signals from another game device, but data can be input in a primitive form such as Morse code by simply having the player block the surface of the light-receiving portion 310 of the memory card 300 with a finger or an object, without using any other device.Modified EmbodimentsThe present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications are possible.

For example, although the above embodiment applies the present invention to a memory card, the present invention may also be applied to a portable game console.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a card-shaped memory card, but the memory card does not necessarily have to be card-shaped, and the present invention may also be applied to general memory devices of other shapes.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a game device and its controller, but the present invention may also be applied to electronic devices other than game devices and controllers serving as input devices for controlling such devices.

[Industrial Applicability] The present invention is suitable for game systems that use memory cards, and is particularly useful for game systems that use memory cards and controllers or game consoles that use the memory cards.

───────────────────────────────────────────────────── Continued from the front page (81) Designated States: EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE), AU, BR, CA, CN, JP, KR, US (72) Inventor: Miyuki Yasuoka 1-2-12 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo SEGA Enterprises, Inc. (72) Inventor: Koji Tsuchitani 1-2-12 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo SEGA Enterprises, Inc. (Note) This publication is based on the internationally published gazette by the International Bureau of International Patent Office (WIPO). Please note that the effect of the international publication of the Japanese-language patent application (Japanese-language utility model registration application) related to this publication arises pursuant to Article 184-10, Paragraph 1 of the Patent Act (Article 48-13, Paragraph 2 of the Utility Model Act), and is unrelated to this publication.

Claims (52)

[Claims] 1. A memory device having a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, and a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information. The memory device also has a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information, and operation buttons provided on one side of the case for operation by an operator. 2. The memory device according to claim 1, wherein the memory stores backup data and/or programs. 3. The memory device of claim 2, wherein one of the backup data and the program is stored starting from a higher address in the memory and moving toward lower addresses, and the other of the backup data and the program is stored starting from a lower address in the memory and moving toward higher addresses. 4. The memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display unit displays the contents stored in the memory. 5. The memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operation button is used to specify stored content in the memory and perform deletion or write-protection processing. 6. The memory device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the memory stores a first program executed during stand-alone operation and a second program executed during connected operation, and wherein the memory executes the first program when the connection terminal is not connected to an external device, and executes the second program when the connection terminal is connected to an external device. 7. A controller having predetermined operation keys and transmitting predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device, characterized in that it has a mounting section to which the memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 can be mounted. 8. An electronic device connected to a controller that sends a predetermined instruction signal, the electronic device having a mounting portion into which the memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is mounted. 9. A game system having a game console, a display device connected to the game console, and a controller connected to the game console, wherein a memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is attached to the attachment portion of the controller, and a game screen separate from that displayed on the display portion of the memory device is displayed on the display portion of the memory device. 10. The game system of claim 9, wherein: Multiple controllers are connected to the game device main unit; The memory device is attached to each controller; A separate game screen is displayed on the display unit of each memory device. 11. A game system having a game console, a display device connected to the game console, and a controller connected to the game console, wherein a memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is attached to the attachment portion of the controller, and data or programs are transferred from the game console to the memory device. 12. A game system having a game device main unit, a display device connected to the game device main unit, and a controller connected to the game device main unit, wherein a memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is attached to the attachment portion of the controller, and data or programs are transferred from the memory device to the game device main unit. 13. The memory device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the connection terminals include a first male connection terminal and a second female connection terminal. 14. A game system having two memory devices as described in claim 13, wherein the first connection terminal of one memory device is connected to the second connection terminal of the other memory device, and the second connection terminal of the one memory device is connected to the first connection terminal of the other memory device, thereby directly connecting the one memory device and the other memory device. 15. A memory device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 16. A memory device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; and a selection key for selecting any information from multiple pieces of information. 17. A memory device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a selection key for selecting desired information from multiple pieces of information; a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 18. A controller having predetermined operation keys and transmitting predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device, characterized in that the controller has a mounting portion for mounting the memory device according to any one of claims 16 to 18. 19. A controller comprising: a mounting section for mounting the memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17; a selection key for selecting any information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a controller for transmitting a predetermined instruction signal to an electronic device. 20. A controller comprising: a mounting section for mounting the memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17; and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory; and for sending a predetermined instruction signal to an electronic device. 21. A controller comprising: a mounting section for mounting the memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17; a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory; and characterized in that the controller sends a predetermined instruction signal to an electronic device. 22. A controller comprising: a case; a mounting portion for mounting a memory device provided within the case for storing information; a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; and a display portion provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a selection key for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the input information in the memory; and the controller sending a predetermined instruction signal to an electronic device. 23. An electronic device connected to a controller that sends a predetermined instruction signal, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting the memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17. 24. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and the controller having a selection key for selecting any information from a plurality of pieces of information. 25. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, the electronic device having a mounting portion for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and the controller having a save key for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information to the memory. 26. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, the electronic device having a mounting section for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and having a selection means for selecting any information from a plurality of pieces of information. 27. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, comprising: a mounting section for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17; and save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 28. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, comprising: a mounting section for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17; a selection means for selecting desired information from a plurality of pieces of information; and a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 29. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, comprising: a case; a mounting portion for mounting a memory device provided within the case for storing information; a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information; and a display portion provided on one side of the case for displaying information; a selection means for selecting desired information from multiple pieces of information; and a save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 30. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, wherein the controller has a mounting portion for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and the electronic device has a selection means for selecting any information from a plurality of pieces of information. 31. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, wherein the controller has a mounting portion for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and the electronic device has save means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 32. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits a predetermined instruction signal, wherein the controller has a mounting portion for mounting a memory device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, and the electronic device has a selection means for selecting information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a saving means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 33. An electronic device connected to a controller that transmits predetermined instruction signals, wherein the controller has a case, a memory provided within the case for storing information, a connection terminal provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information, and a mounting portion for mounting a memory device having a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; the electronic device also has a selection means for selecting information from a plurality of pieces of information, and a saving means for inputting information via the connection terminal and saving the information in the memory. 34. In the electronic device described in claim 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, or 33, the selection means selects information based on a stage in the program. 35. In the electronic device described in claim 34, the information selected based on the program's progress is a game program. 36. In the electronic device described in claim 27, 28, or 29, the save means is activated upon detecting that the memory has been attached to the attachment portion of the electronic device. 37. In the electronic device described in claim 31, 32, or 33, the save means is activated upon detecting that the memory has been connected to the mounting portion of the controller. 38. In the electronic device described in claim 27, 28, 29, 31, 32, or 33, the saving means is activated upon detecting that a controller has been connected to the electronic device. 39. A gaming method for playing a main game having multiple scenes that progress through a predetermined sequence, selecting a sub-game based on the progression of the main game, saving the selected sub-game to a memory device attached to the game console, and playing the sub-game on the memory device. 40. A memory device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; operation buttons provided on one side of the case relative to the display for an operator; a connection terminal provided on the other side of the case relative to the display for inputting and outputting information. 41. A controller equipped with predetermined operation keys and configured to send predetermined instruction signals to an electronic device, the controller having a mounting portion with a window for mounting a memory device, wherein when the memory device is mounted in the mounting portion, a predetermined area of the memory device is exposed through the window. 42. The controller according to claim 41, further comprising an additional mounting section for mounting a memory device. 43. A memory device to be attached to a controller as described in claim 41, comprising: a display unit for displaying information; the display unit is located in a position exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment portion of the controller. 44. A memory device to be attached to a controller as described in claim 41, having a memo section on which handwritten notes can be written, wherein the memo section is located in a position exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment section of the controller. 45. A memory device to be attached to the controller described in claim 41, having an operation button for an operator to operate, wherein the operation button is located in a position exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment portion of the controller. 46. A memory device to be attached to a controller as described in claim 41, which includes a microphone for inputting voice, wherein the microphone is positioned so as to be exposed through the window when the memory device is attached to the attachment section of the controller. 47. A game system having two memory devices as described in claim 40, characterized in that by connecting the connection terminals of one memory device to the connection terminals of the other memory device, the display units of both memory devices are brought into close proximity and the operation buttons of both memory devices are directly connected so that they can be operated from both sides. 48. A memory device comprising: a case; a memory provided within the case for storing information; a display provided on one side of the case for displaying information; operation buttons provided on one side of the case for operation by an operator; an optical information input/output unit provided at one end of the case for inputting and outputting information via light. 49. In the memory device described in claim 48, the optical information input/output unit has a light-emitting unit that emits light and a light-receiving unit that receives light, wherein the light-emitting unit faces the light-receiving unit of the optical information input/output unit of another memory device, and the light-receiving unit faces the light-emitting unit of the optical information input/output unit of another memory device. 50. In the memory device described in claim 49, the light receiving section of the optical information input/output unit converts received light into electrical energy and supplies power. 51. A game system having two memory devices as described in claim 49, wherein the light-emitting portion of the optical information input/output unit of one memory device faces the light-receiving portion of the optical information input/output unit of the other memory device, and the light-receiving portion of the optical information input/output unit of one memory device faces the light-emitting portion of the optical information input/output unit of the other memory device, thereby connecting both memory devices. 52. A method for inputting data into a memory device as recited in claim 49, wherein desired data is input by intermittently blocking the light while irradiating the light receiving portion of the optical information input/output unit.