JP7553195B2 - Content distribution system, server system and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a content distribution system, a server system, a program, etc.

In recent years, content distribution systems that live-distribute content via networks such as the Internet have been gaining popularity. Examples of conventional technology for such content distribution systems include the systems disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2. Patent Document 1 discloses that a GUI for providing tips to performers appearing in the content being viewed is displayed on the viewer's terminal. Patent Document 2 discloses that the screen configuration on the viewer's side is changed depending on the level of support given by the viewer to the performer.

JP 2018-182546 A JP 2018-171282 A

However, with these conventional technologies, the audience only reacted to the actions of the performers by cheering, etc., and the performers did not take any action in response to the audience's reactions.

According to some aspects of this embodiment, it is possible to provide a content distribution system, a server system, a program, etc., that allows performers to easily respond to audience reactions to the performers' actions with their own actions.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a content distribution system that distributes content that progresses based on the operation of a performer's performer terminal to a viewer terminal of a viewer, and includes a reception unit that receives the content or posted information for the performer based on the operation of the viewer's viewer terminal by the viewer, and a display processing unit that performs display processing of common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information of the content that is information displayed on one of the performer terminal and the viewer terminal and is information for encouraging the performer to perform operations, and the display processing unit performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-mentioned units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, when a viewer posts information in response to a performer's actions, a process for displaying content difference information on the performer's terminal is performed according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. Therefore, not only is it possible for viewers to react to the performer's actions using the posted information, but by displaying difference information according to the posting status, it is possible to encourage the performer to take action in response to the viewer's reaction to the posted information. Therefore, it is possible to provide a content distribution system or the like that makes it easier for performers to respond with action in response to viewer reactions to the performer's actions.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, when the difference information is information that is displayed on the viewer terminal and hidden on the performer terminal, the display processing unit may perform processing to display at least a portion of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information.

In this way, difference information that the performer could not see before can be seen by the performer through the viewer's posted information, and this visibility can encourage the performer to take action.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the display processing unit may set the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information.

In this way, it becomes possible to vary the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer's terminal in various ways depending on the posting status of the posted information, and it becomes possible to realize effective display processing of difference information that reflects the posting status of the viewers.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, when the difference information is information that is hidden on the viewer terminal and displayed on the performer terminal, the display processing unit may set the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information.

In this way, when the difference information is information that is hidden on the viewer terminal but displayed on the performer terminal, it becomes possible to vary the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal in various ways depending on the posting status of the posted information.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the display processing unit may perform processing to display the corresponding difference information in a position in the display area of the content of the performer terminal that is specified according to the posting status of the posted information.

In this way, content difference information can be displayed at a location specified according to the viewer's posting status, and the difference information displayed at that location can encourage the performer to take action.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the difference information may be information on options for selecting an action of the performer, and the content may be content that progresses by selecting an action of the performer from the options.

In this way, it becomes possible to execute a display process for the information of options according to the posting status of the viewer, making it possible, for example, to change the display control of the information of options according to the posting status.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the posting status may be a status regarding the amount of posted information, and the display processing unit may perform a display process of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the amount of posted information.

In this way, it becomes possible to realize a display process for difference information on the performer's terminal that reflects the amount of information posted by the viewer, and it becomes possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer's terminal depending on the amount of information posted by the viewer.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the posting status is the status at the time when the posted information is received, and the display processing unit may perform display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the time when the posted information is received.

In this way, it becomes possible to realize a display process for difference information on the performer's terminal that reflects the timing of the viewer's posting, and it becomes possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer's terminal depending on the timing of the viewer's posting.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the posting information may include information on the posting position in the display area of the content, the posting status may be the status of the posting position, and the display processing unit may perform display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position.

In this way, it becomes possible to realize a display process of difference information on the performer's terminal that reflects the posting location contained in the posted information, and it becomes possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer's terminal depending on the posting location information contained in the viewer's posted information.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the posting status is the status of attribute information of the viewer who posted the posting information, and the display processing unit may perform display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the attribute information of the viewer.

In this way, it becomes possible to realize a display process for difference information on the performer's terminal that reflects the attribute information of the viewer watching the content, and it becomes possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer's terminal according to the viewer's attribute information.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the posted information may be information posted by the viewer by consuming the viewer's parameters.

In this way, it becomes possible to determine the posting status of the information posted by consuming the viewer's parameters, and to perform a process of displaying difference information on the performer's terminal according to the posting status.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the content may be game content that progresses through the player's operations.

This will enable things like live gameplay broadcasts, where the progress of a game is relayed through the player's actions.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a server system that distributes content that progresses based on the operation of a performer's performer terminal to a viewer's viewer terminal, and includes a reception unit that receives postings of the content or information posted to the performer based on the operation of the viewer's viewer terminal by the viewer, and a display processing unit that performs display processing of common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information of the content that is information displayed on either the performer terminal or the viewer terminal and is information for encouraging the performer to perform operations, and the display processing unit performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information by the viewer.

Such a server system not only allows viewers to react to the actions of the performers through posted information, but also displays difference information according to the posting status, making it possible to encourage the performers to take action in response to the viewers' reactions to the posted information. It is therefore possible to provide a server system or the like that makes it easier for performers to respond to audience reactions to their actions with their own actions.

1A to 1F are explanatory diagrams of hardware devices that realize the content distribution system of this embodiment. 2 shows an example of the configuration of a content distribution system according to the present embodiment. 13 shows an example of the configuration of a terminal device. 4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a fishing game. 5(A) and 5(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a fishing game. 6(A) and 6(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a competitive game. 7(A) and 7(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a competitive game. 8(A) and 8(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a VR character. 9(A) and 9(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a VR character. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the present embodiment. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a process for setting the display content or display mode of difference information depending on the posting status. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a process of displaying difference information at a position specified according to a posting status. An example of posted information. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a display process of difference information according to the amount of posted information, the acceptance timing, the posting position, and the attribute information of the viewer.

The present embodiment will be described below. Note that the present embodiment described below does not unduly limit the contents of the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in the present embodiment are necessarily essential components.

1. Content Distribution System First, the hardware device for realizing the content distribution system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

In FIG. 1A, a server system 500 (information processing system) is communicatively connected to terminal devices TM1 to TMn via a network 510. For example, the server system 500 is a host, and the terminal devices TM1 to TMn are clients. The content distribution system and its processing of this embodiment may be realized by the server system 500, or may be realized by distributed processing between the server system 500 and the terminal devices TM1 to TMn.

The content distribution system and processing of this embodiment can also be realized using a blockchain technique. For example, each process of the content distribution system of this embodiment can be executed using a program called a smart contract that can be executed on Ethereum. In this case, the terminal devices TM1 to TMn will be connected in a peer-to-peer manner. Furthermore, various information such as content information communicated between the terminal devices TM1 to TMn will be transferred using the blockchain. Note that, hereinafter, each of the terminal devices TM1 to TMn will be referred to as a terminal device TM as appropriate.

The server system 500 can be realized by, for example, one or more servers (such as a management server, a game distribution server, a video distribution server, a billing server, a service provision server, an authentication server, a database server, or a communication server). This server system 500 provides various services for managing live distribution, and can manage data necessary for live distribution of various contents such as games and VR characters, and distribute client programs and various data. This allows viewers to access the server system 500 using a terminal device TM, which is a viewer terminal, and to watch live distribution of content provided by the server system 500. The processing of this server system 500 realizes a live distribution function that live distributes content to viewers, a posting function that allows viewers to post tips and comments on performers and their performances, and the like. Tips are also called gifts. Performers are the distributors of content. The processing of the server system 500 also realizes an online shopping function for virtual electronic media such as billing items, a game provision function that allows online games to be played, and a user management function that registers users and manages information for each user.

The network 510 (distribution network, communication line) is a communication path that uses, for example, the Internet or a wireless LAN, and can include a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection, a LAN using Ethernet (registered trademark), or other communication networks such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, or a wireless LAN. The communication method can be either wired or wireless.

The terminal device TM (user terminal) is, for example, a terminal having a network connection function (Internet connection function). As these terminal devices TM, various devices can be used, such as a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone or mobile phone shown in FIG. 1(B), a portable game device shown in FIG. 1(C), a home game device (stationary type) shown in FIG. 1(D), an arcade game device shown in FIG. 1(E), or an information processing device such as a personal computer (PC) or tablet PC shown in FIG. 1(F). Alternatively, the terminal device TM may be a wearable device (HMD, watch-type device, etc.) that is attached to the user's head, arm, or other part of the body.

Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the content distribution system of this embodiment. Note that the configuration of the content distribution system is not limited to that shown in Figure 2, and various modifications are possible, such as omitting some of the components (parts) or adding other components.

The content distribution system includes a processing unit 100, a storage unit 170, and a communication unit 196. This content distribution system can be realized, for example, by a server system 500 in FIG. 1(A), and is communicatively connected to a performer terminal TMP, which is a terminal device TM, and viewer terminals TMA to TMAm via a network 510. Note that, hereinafter, each viewer terminal TMA1 to TMAn will be referred to collectively as a viewer terminal TMA, where appropriate.

The processing unit 100 (processor) performs reception processing, transmission processing, content information generation processing, acceptance processing, management processing, display processing, sound processing, etc. based on various information, programs, operation information, etc. stored in the memory unit 170.

Each process (each function) of the present embodiment performed by each part of the processing unit 100 can be realized by a processor (a processor including hardware). For example, each process of the present embodiment can be realized by a processor that operates based on information such as a program and a memory that stores information such as a program. The functions of each part of the processor may be realized by individual hardware, or the functions of each part may be realized by integrated hardware. For example, the processor includes hardware, and the hardware may include at least one of a circuit that processes digital signals and a circuit that processes analog signals. For example, the processor may be configured with one or more circuit devices (e.g., ICs, etc.) mounted on a circuit board, or one or more circuit elements (e.g., resistors, capacitors, etc.). The processor may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). However, the processor is not limited to a CPU, and various processors such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) can be used. The processor may also be a hardware circuit using an ASIC. The processor may also include an amplifier circuit, a filter circuit, etc. that processes analog signals. The memory (storage unit) may be a semiconductor memory such as SRAM or DRAM, or may be a register. Alternatively, it may be a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), or an optical storage device such as an optical disk drive. For example, the memory stores computer-readable instructions, and the instructions are executed by the processor to realize the processing (functions) of each unit of the processing unit 100. The instructions here may be a set of instructions constituting a program, or may be instructions that instruct the hardware circuitry of the processor to operate.

The processing unit 100 includes a receiving processing unit 102, a transmitting processing unit 104, a content information generating unit 106, a receiving unit 108, a management unit 118, a display processing unit 120, and a sound processing unit 130. Note that the configuration of the processing unit 100 is not limited to this, and various modifications are possible, such as omitting some of these components or adding other components.

The receiving processor 102 performs information receiving processing using the communication unit 196. For example, the receiving processor 102 performs processing to receive information from the performer terminal TMP and the viewer terminal TMA via the communication unit 196 and the network 510. Information received from the performer terminal TMP is, for example, operation information input by the performer using the operation unit 260 in FIG. 3 described below, and playback data for playing back the performer's performance. The playback data is, for example, a motion number for playing back the motion of a character that moves according to the performer's performance, motion data, or shooting data of the performer's performance. Information received from the viewer terminal TMA is, for example, operation information input by the viewer using the operation unit 260 in FIG. 3, and information posted by the viewer regarding the content or the performer. Posted information includes tips (gifts) and posted comments for the content or the performer.

The transmission processing unit 104 performs an information transmission process using the communication unit 196. For example, the transmission processing unit 104 performs a process of transmitting information to the viewer terminal TMA and the performer terminal TMP via the communication unit 196 and the network 510. The information transmitted to the viewer terminal TMA and the performer terminal TMP is, for example, content information used for content playback on the viewer terminal TMA and the performer terminal TMP. The content information is display image information displayed on the display unit 290 in Figure 3, and output sound information such as audio information, music information, and sound effect information output from the sound output unit 292.

The content information generating unit 106 performs processing to generate content information to be distributed by the content distribution system of this embodiment. Specifically, the content information generating unit 106 generates information on the content that progresses based on the operation of the performer's terminal TMP by the performer. That is, the content information is generated by performing processing to progress the content. For example, the content information generating unit 106 performs processing to generate content information such as display image information displayed on the display unit 290 of the viewer terminal TMA or the performer terminal TMP, and output sound information output from the sound output unit 292.

The content information generating unit 106 may also generate game content information by performing game processing for a user to play a game. The game processing may be, for example, a process of starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process of progressing the started game, a process of ending a game when a game end condition is satisfied, or a process of calculating game results. Taking a browser game as an example, the content information generating unit 106 controls the progress of the game for each user by managing various information of the user for each user. The user information is stored in the user information storage unit 174. For example, a web page constituting a website providing a game service is displayed on the terminal device TM in response to a request from the terminal device TM such as the performer terminal TMP or the viewer terminal TMA. Specifically, the web page is displayed by a web browser provided in the terminal device TM. When a hyperlink on the displayed web page is selected by the user, new HTML data corresponding to the hyperlink is transmitted to the terminal device TM, and the terminal device TM displays a web page based on the new HTML data. In this way, web pages are provided to the terminal device TM in sequence in response to user operations, making it possible to progress through the game based on the user's operations on the terminal device TM. In this case, the display image information generated by the content information generating unit 106 is, for example, HTML data.

The reception unit 108 receives operational input information from performers and viewers. Operational input information is information input based on the operation of the operation unit 260 (Figure 3) of the performer terminal TMP by the performer, and information input based on the operation of the operation unit 260 of the viewer terminal TMA by the viewer.

The management unit 118 performs, for example, user authentication processing. For example, it performs authentication processing for a user who logs in using the terminal device TM. This authentication processing is performed, for example, based on a password or account information entered by the user. The management unit 118 also performs various billing processing. For example, it performs billing decision processing, billing data creation processing, storage processing, etc. The management unit 118 also performs various management processing. For example, it performs management processing for various services and management processing for various information. The management unit 118 can be realized, for example, by a management server.

For example, a user acquires an account by going through a prescribed procedure in order to use services provided by the server system 500 in FIG. 1(A) or the like. By logging in by entering a password associated with the acquired account, the user can use various services such as live streaming, playing network games such as social games, services on live streaming sites and game sites, online shopping for items, exchanging messages with other users, and registering friend users. The management unit 118 also performs management processes for such user account information.

The display processing unit 120 performs processing to display an image on the display unit 290 of the terminal device TM in FIG. 3, which is the performer terminal TMP or the viewer terminal TMA. For example, it transmits display image information (image generation data) such as HTML data to the terminal device TM via the transmission processing unit 104, the communication unit 196, and the network 510, and performs processing to display an image corresponding to the display image information on the display unit 290 of the terminal device TM.

The sound processing unit 130 performs processing for outputting sound from the sound output unit 292 of the terminal device TM. For example, it transmits output sound information (sound generation data) to the terminal device TM via the transmission processing unit 104, the communication unit 196, and the network 510, and performs processing for outputting sound (voice, music, game sound, sound effect) corresponding to the output sound information from the sound output unit 292 of the terminal device TM.

The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100 and the communication unit 196, and its functions can be realized by a semiconductor memory, a HDD, an SSD, an optical disk device, or the like. The storage unit 170 includes a content information storage unit 172 and a user information storage unit 174. The content information storage unit 172 stores information on the content to be distributed. The content is, for example, entertainment content, such as game content, virtual reality (VR) content, or video distribution content. Specifically, the content is live content, such as live game commentary content that provides a live commentary of the game play of an actor, or live content that provides a live commentary of the performance of an actor or a VR character corresponding to the actor. The content information is various information that constitutes the content, such as display image information, output sound information, video information, or content sequence information for content progression. The user information storage unit 174 stores various information about the user. For example, the user information storage unit 174 stores the user's personal information (such as name, gender, date of birth, and email address) as user information. For example, the user's account information (user ID) is also stored as user information. For example, billing information that is the subject of billing processing is associated with each account information of each user.

The communication unit 196 communicates with external devices, and its functions can be realized by hardware such as a communication ASIC or a communication processor, or by communication firmware. For example, the communication unit 196, which is a communication interface, performs various communication processes for communicating with terminal devices TM such as the performer terminal TMP and the viewer terminal TMA via the network 510.

The content distribution system of FIG. 2 performs each process of this embodiment based on the program of this embodiment. This program is a program (program for making a computer execute the process of each part) for making a computer (a device having an operation unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, and an output unit) function as each part of this embodiment. This program is stored in an information storage medium, for example. That is, the content distribution system of this embodiment performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium. The information storage medium, which is a medium readable by a computer, stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by an optical disk, HDD, semiconductor memory, etc. Note that the program (data) for making a computer function as each part of this embodiment may be distributed from an information storage medium possessed by the server system 500 (host device) via the network 510. The use of such an information storage medium by the server system 500 can also be included in the scope of this embodiment.

Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the terminal device TM. The terminal device TM includes a processing unit 200, an operation unit 260, an interface unit 262, a memory unit 270, an information storage medium 280, a display unit 290, a sound output unit 292, and a communication unit 296. Note that the configuration of the terminal device TM is not limited to that shown in Figure 3, and various modifications are possible, such as omitting some of the components (each unit) or adding other components.

The processing unit 200 (processor) executes terminal-side processing in the content distribution system based on operation information and programs from the operation unit 260. For example, it executes processing for content distribution and game processing. The processing unit 200 can be realized by a processor or the like, similar to the processing unit 100 in FIG. 2 described above. Note that each process in the content distribution system of this embodiment may be realized by distributed processing of the server system 500 and the terminal device TM.

The operation unit 260 is for the user to input various information such as operation information, and its functions can be realized by operation buttons, direction indicator keys, analog sticks, levers, various sensors (angular velocity sensors, acceleration sensors, etc.), a microphone, or a touch panel display. The interface unit 262 performs interface processing with external devices, and performs processing to communicate with external devices according to a predetermined interface standard, for example. The function of the interface unit 262 can be realized by hardware such as an interface processing ASIC or an interface processing processor, or interface processing firmware. For example, when the movements of a performer are captured by an external motion capture device, the motion data obtained by the motion capture is input to the terminal device TM via the interface unit 262. Also, when the movements of a performer are photographed by an external photographing device or the voice of the performer is recorded by an external microphone, the data of the photographed video and the recorded voice are input to the terminal device TM via the interface unit 262. The interface unit 262 also performs interface processing with portable information storage media such as IC cards (memory cards), USB memories, or magnetic cards in which various information about the user is stored.

The storage unit 270 serves as a work area for the processing unit 200 and the communication unit 296, and its functions can be realized by a semiconductor memory, HDD, SSD, optical disk device, etc. The information storage medium 280 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions can be realized by an optical disk, HDD, semiconductor memory, etc. The processing unit 200 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 280. This information storage medium 280 can store programs (programs for causing a computer to execute the processes of each unit) for causing a computer (a device equipped with an operation unit, processing unit, storage unit, and output unit) to function as each unit of this embodiment.

The display unit 290 outputs the image generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by an LCD, an organic EL display, a CRT, an HMD, or the like. The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated by this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, a headphone, or the like. The communication unit 296 (communication interface) communicates with the server system 500 and external devices such as other terminal devices via the network 510, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a communication ASIC or a communication processor, or by communication firmware.

As shown in FIG. 2, the content distribution system (server system) of this embodiment, which distributes content that progresses based on the operation of the performer's performer terminal TMP to the viewer's viewer terminal TMA, includes a reception unit 108 and a display processing unit 120.

The reception unit 108 performs a process of receiving information posted to the content or performer based on the operation of the viewer terminal TMA by the viewer. The content is, for example, the content of a performance performed by a performer. The posted information is, for example, a tip provided by a viewer or a posted comment. For example, in a content distribution system, a viewer of the content provides a posted item or posts a comment to praise the content or performer or to support the performer who distributes the content. The provision of a posted item from a viewer to a performer is called a "tipping" or a "gift" after the donation from the audience to a street performer. Hereinafter, these will be collectively referred to as "tipping" as appropriate. The posting of a tip is realized by the viewer inputting a posting object, which is, for example, a tipping item. The posting object can also be called a gift object. For example, a viewer operates the operation unit 260 of the viewer terminal TMA to perform an operation to insert a tip to the content or performer that progresses based on the operation of the performer. For example, a viewer performs an operation to deposit a tip into a virtual field in which a performer (a character corresponding to the performer) is performing. The reception unit 108 then accepts the viewer's submission of a tip. Alternatively, the viewer operates the operation unit 260 of the viewer terminal TMA to submit a comment to the performer or content that progresses based on the performer's operation. The reception unit 108 then accepts the viewer's submission of a comment. Note that when multiple performers perform in one piece of content, the reception unit 108 will accept submissions of tips, comments, etc., for a performer designated by the viewer from among the multiple performers.

The display processing unit 120 performs a display process of the content information. Specifically, the display processing unit 120 performs a display process of the common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal TMP and the viewer terminal TMA, and the difference information of the content that is displayed on one of the performer terminal TMP and the viewer terminal TMA. The difference information of the content is, for example, information for encouraging the performer to perform an operation. For example, displaying the difference information of the content encourages the performer to perform an operation using the operation unit 260 of the performer terminal TMP. Specifically, the display processing unit 120 performs a display process of the difference information that encourages the performer to react to the viewer's reaction (posting, etc.) to the content or the performer. For example, the display processing unit 120 performs a process to display the common information of the content on both the display unit 290 of the performer terminal TMP and the display unit 290 of the viewer terminal TMA. The display processing unit 120 also performs a process to display the difference information of the content on the display unit 290 of the performer terminal TMP or the display unit 290 of the viewer terminal TMA.

Then, the display processing unit 120 performs a display process of the difference information of the content on the performer terminal TMP according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. For example, the display processing unit 120 changes the display control of the difference information of the content on the performer terminal TMP based on the posting status of the viewer's posted information. For example, the display processing unit 120 performs a process of changing the display content of the difference information or changing the display mode. Specifically, when a viewer posts posted information such as a tip, and the posting is accepted by the acceptance unit 108, the display processing unit 120 performs a display process of making the difference information that was visible only to the viewer visible to the performer, or changing the content of the difference information that was not shown to the viewer. For example, when a viewer posts information about the content or the performer, the display processing unit 120 performs a display process of generating a reaction of the performer to the posting.

For example, suppose that the difference information of the content is information that is displayed on the viewer terminal TMA but not displayed on the performer terminal TMP. That is, the difference information is displayed on the display unit 290 of the viewer terminal TMA, but is not displayed on the display unit 290 of the performer terminal TMP. In this case, the display processing unit 120 performs processing to display at least a portion of the difference information on the performer terminal TMP depending on the posting status of the posted information. For example, the entire difference information is displayed on the performer terminal TMP, or only a portion of the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal TMP.

For example, the first state in which the difference information of the content is displayed on the viewer terminal TMA and hidden on the performer terminal TMP is a state in which, in a fishing game described later, an image of the fish shadow on the water surface, which is the difference information, is displayed only on the viewer terminal TMA, so that the viewer can see the fish shadow. In this case, when the viewer posts a tip or the like, the image of the fish shadow, which is the difference information, is also displayed on the performer terminal TMP, so that the performer can see the fish shadow. In a sound game, the above-mentioned first state is a state in which an image of a marker, which is the difference information, is displayed only on the viewer terminal TMA, so that the viewer can see the marker. In this case, when the viewer posts a tip or the like, the image of the marker is also displayed on the performer terminal TMP, so that the performer can see the marker. In a first-person shooter (FPS) or third-person shooter (TPS), the above-mentioned first state is a state in which an image of an enemy character, such as a ghost, is displayed only on the viewer terminal TMA, so that the enemy character can be seen. In this case, when the viewer posts a tip or the like, the image of the enemy character is also displayed on the performer terminal TMP, so that the performer can see the enemy character. The first state described above is a state in which the options for the performer's actions are displayed only on the viewer terminal TMA. In this case, when the viewer posts a tip or the like, the options are also displayed on the performer terminal TMP, allowing the performer to see the options. The manner in which the difference information of the content displayed on the viewer terminal TMA is displayed on the performer terminal TMP is determined according to the viewer's posting status. Note that the display content of the options and the display content of the enemy character may be changed on the viewer terminal TMA before being displayed on the performer terminal TMP.

The display processing unit 120 also sets the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information. For example, the display content, such as what to display, where to display, and when to display the difference information of the content, is set according to the posting status of the posted information. Also, the display mode, such as how much of the difference information of the content to display, how easily it should be displayed, and for what display period, is set according to the posting status of the posted information.

Also, suppose that the content difference information is hidden on the viewer terminal TMA, but displayed on the performer terminal TMP. That is, the difference information is displayed on the display unit 290 of the performer terminal TMP, but not on the display unit 290 of the viewer terminal TMA. In this case, the display processing unit 120 sets the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal TMP according to the posting status of the posted information. For example, depending on the posting status of the posted information, it sets what to display, where to display, when to display, how much to display, how easily to display, or for what display period for the content difference information.

For example, the second state in which the difference information of the content is hidden on the viewer terminal TMA and displayed on the performer terminal TMP is a state in which, for example, the options of the performer's actions are displayed on the performer terminal TMP as difference information, but not on the viewer terminal TMA, and the viewer does not know what the performer selected among the options until the performer takes action. In addition, in the above-mentioned second state, in a fishing game, the image of the fish shadow on the water surface, which is difference information, is not displayed on the viewer terminal TMA, and the viewer does not know the presence of a fish until the performer catches it. In a sound game, the above-mentioned second state is a state in which the image of the marker, which is difference information, is not displayed on the viewer terminal TMA, and the viewer cannot see the marker and can only see the performer or the character corresponding to the performer dancing or singing to the music. In an FPS or TPS, the above-mentioned second state is a state in which the enemy character, such as a ghost, is not displayed on the viewer terminal TMA, and the viewer cannot see the enemy character and sees the performer fighting an invisible enemy character. Then, depending on the viewer's posting status, the display content and display mode of the difference information that was not visible to the viewer change. For example, depending on the viewer's posting status, the display content and display mode of options and enemy characters on the performer terminal TMP change. For example, depending on the viewer's posting status, new selectable items are added to the options, and the appearance and state of enemy characters change.

The display processing unit 120 also performs processing to display the corresponding content difference information at a position specified according to the posting status of the posted information in the content display area of the performer terminal TMP. For example, when a viewer operates the viewer terminal TMA to post a posting object such as a tip, the display processing unit 120 performs processing to display the content difference information at a position corresponding to the position where the posted object was inserted. For example, when trajectory information of the posted object is set by the viewer's operation, the posted object is moved on a trajectory corresponding to the trajectory information in the virtual field where the performer performs, and the content difference information is displayed, for example, at the landing position of the posted object.

The difference information of the content is information on options for selecting the performer's actions, and the content progresses as the performer's actions are selected from the options. For example, images of options for selecting actions that the performer can perform are displayed as the difference information. For example, images of the options are displayed on the performer terminal TMP or the viewer terminal TMA. Then, when the performer's action (branch corresponding to the action) is selected from the options, the selected action is performed as the performer's performance. For example, a content image is displayed in which a character corresponding to the performer performs the selected action. The performer's action may be selected from the options by the performer or may be selected by the viewer. The display processing unit 120 then performs a display process of the option information according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. For example, the display control of the option information is changed according to the posting status. For example, a process is performed to change the display content or display mode of the option information. For example, a new selectable item (branch) is added to the options, or the appearance of the options changes.

The posting status is a status regarding the amount of posted information, and the display processing unit 120 performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the amount of posted information. For example, the display processing of the difference information is changed according to the amount of posted information. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set according to the amount of posted information. Here, the amount of posted information corresponds to, for example, the number of posts, and in the case of posted objects, it is, for example, the number of posted objects, and in the case of posted comments, it is, for example, the number of comments of the posted comments. The amount of posted information may be the amount for each viewer, or may be the amount for the entire audience. That is, the amount of posted information may be the amount of posted information for one poster, or, in the case where multiple viewers watch the performer's content, it may be the sum of the amount of posted information for these multiple viewers. Then, the display processing unit 120 performs display processing of the difference information reflecting the amount of posted information of the viewers. For example, when the amount of posted information is a first amount, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set to the first display content or the first display content, and when the amount of posted information is a second amount, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set to the second display content or the second display content. For example, the more information posted, the more advantageous it will be for the performer, and the display of differential information will be processed to give preferential treatment to the performer.

The posting status is the status at the time when the posted information was received, and the display processing unit 120 performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal TMP according to the time when the posted information was received. For example, the display processing unit 120 changes the display processing of the difference information according to the time when the posted information was received. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set according to the time when the posted information was received. For example, the display processing of the difference information is performed according to whether the posted information was received within a given period or not. For example, if a viewer posts during the reception period, the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal TMP, and if a viewer posts during the bonus time period, many images corresponding to the difference information are displayed.

The posting information includes information on the posting position in the display area of the content, the posting status is the status of the posting position, and the display processing unit 120 performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position. For example, the display processing unit 120 changes the display processing of the difference information according to the posting position. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set according to the posting position. For example, when a viewer posts by specifying a posting position, the posting information includes the position, and the display content or display mode of the difference information to be displayed on the performer terminal TMP is set according to the posting position. The information on the posting position is, for example, information on the posting position of a posting object such as a tip. The posting position of the posting object may be a position that is directly specified, or may be a position specified by trajectory information. Taking a fishing game, FPS, or TPS as an example, the shadow of a fish or enemy at the position where the viewer throws a posting object such as a tip is displayed on the performer terminal TMP, making the performer visible, or a fish or enemy appears at the posting position. In this embodiment, the viewer does not need to specify the posting position, and for example, if there are a large number of posted objects (amount of tips), fish or enemies may appear in a position close to the performer (performer's character).

The posting status is the status of the attribute information of the viewer who posted the posting information, and the display processing unit 120 performs display processing of the difference information on the performer terminal TMP according to the viewer's attribute information. For example, the display processing unit 120 changes the display processing of the difference information according to the viewer's attribute information. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information is set according to the viewer's attribute information. The viewer's attribute information is, for example, the viewer's user information and viewing history information. The viewer's user information is, for example, the viewer's gender, age group information, friend information, etc. The viewing history information is information such as the number of times the performer's content has been viewed, the viewing frequency, or the most recent viewing history. For example, when a viewer who has viewed the performer's content for the first time posts, a display processing of the difference information is performed to make the difference information easier to display on the performer terminal TMP, giving the performer an advantage or preferential treatment. In this way, it is possible to increase the number of viewers who newly view the content. Alternatively, conversely, when a repeat viewer who has viewed the content many times posts, a display processing of the difference information may be performed to give the performer an advantage or preferential treatment. For example, if a viewer who is a friend of the performer posts, the difference information is made more likely to be displayed on the performer's terminal TMP, and display processing of the difference information is performed in a way that gives the performer an advantage or preferential treatment.

In this embodiment, the display process of the difference information on the performer terminal TMP is performed according to the posting status such as the amount of posted information, the timing of receiving the posted information, the posting location, or the attribute information of the viewer. Basically, the more "excellent" the posting status is, the more advantageous or preferential the display process of the difference information is for the performer. Alternatively, the display process of the difference information may be performed individually according to the amount of posted information, the timing of receiving, or the attribute information of each viewer, or the display process of the difference information may be performed using the overall tendency or overall amount of viewers. Specifically, the display process of the difference information of the content may be performed according to whether the number of viewers who posted during a given period such as the reception period or Bonice time period is a predetermined number or more, whether the number of posts by viewers who are watching for the first time is a predetermined number or more, or whether the number of viewers who posted to the posting location is a predetermined number or more.

The posted information is information posted by a viewer by consuming the viewer's parameters, for example. For example, if the posted object is a paid item, the viewer's parameters are parameters of the amount of the tip paid by the viewer for the charge. For example, in the case of tipping, the parameters are parameters of the amount of the tip. The amount may be paid in virtual currency such as in-game currency, or in entertainment content points such as in-game points. That is, the posted information is a posted object or a posted comment that the viewer can post by paying the amount. Alternatively, the viewer's parameters may be a parameter of the number of posted objects or posted comments. For example, the number parameter is consumed and decreased each time the viewer posts. Also, if multiple posted objects or posted comments are posted in one post, the number parameter is consumed and decreased by the number of posted objects or posted comments. These viewer parameters are stored in association with the viewer, who is the user, in the user information storage unit 174 of FIG. 2, for example.

The content is, for example, game content that progresses through the operation of the performer. For example, the content is game content in which game processing is performed based on operation information from the operation unit 260 of the performer terminal TMP, and the game progresses. And, for example, live content of a game broadcast that allows viewers to watch the performers play the game is distributed by the content distribution system of this embodiment.

The content distribution system and processing of the present embodiment described above can be implemented in various ways, such as by the server system 500 in FIG. 1(A) or by distributed processing between the server system 500 and the terminal device TM. For example, the processing performed by the content information generating unit 106, the receiving unit 108, the management unit 118, the display processing unit 120, the sound processing unit 130, etc. of the content distribution system may be realized by processing of the terminal device TM such as the performer terminal TMP or the viewer terminal TMA. For example, the server system may process only the information necessary for each of the above-mentioned processes such as the display process and the content information generating process, or may only transmit the information to the terminal device TM, and the terminal device TM may execute other processes. For example, a program for executing each of the above-mentioned processes such as the display process and the content information generating process is installed in the terminal device TM, and the terminal device TM executes each of the above-mentioned processes based on the installed program. Also, the same program for executing each of the above-mentioned processes may be installed in the performer terminal TMP and the viewer terminal TMA, and the content of each of the above-mentioned processes executed by the program may be changed depending on whether the operator of the terminal device TM is a performer or a viewer. The content distribution system may also be realized by an information processing system other than the server system 500.

2. Method of the Present Embodiment Next, the method of the present embodiment will be described in detail.

2.1 Display process of content difference information according to posting status In the conventional content distribution system, the viewers would just throw tips, etc., and react to the performer's actions by cheering them on, but the performer would not take action in response to the viewer's reaction. For example, even if a viewer threw a tip, the performer would not react to it, resulting in one-way communication from the viewer to the performer, which did not fully improve the appeal and interest of the content distribution, or the viewer's enthusiasm for the content distribution.

In this embodiment, a mechanism is provided that allows the performer to easily respond to the viewer's reaction to the performer's actions, thereby providing a content distribution system that allows the performer and the viewer to be closely involved. For example, different GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces) are prepared for the performer and the viewer, and the GUI on the performer's terminal is changed according to the posting status. Specifically, in this embodiment, when there is differential information that is information that is displayed on the performer's terminal but not on the viewer's terminal, or information that is not displayed on the performer's terminal but is displayed on the viewer's terminal, a display process is performed on the performer's terminal to display the differential information according to the posting status, such as the viewer's tipping status, and this display process of the differential information prompts the performer to operate. Specifically, a display process is performed in which information that was only visible to the viewer (for example, hints such as fish shadows in a fishing game described later) becomes visible to the performer when the viewer posts tips, or the content of information that is not visible to the viewer (for example, options for actions that the performer can choose) changes as a result of the viewer posting tips, etc.

Figures 4 (A) to 5 (B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a fishing game. The content of the fishing game progresses based on the operation of the performer's terminal by the performer, and a live game commentary showing the performer playing the fishing game is distributed. For example, a pond with fish swimming, trees, rocks, etc. are arranged in the virtual field VFL of the game space, and a fishing game is played in which a virtual character CH corresponding to the performer catches fish swimming in the pond. Figure 4 (A) is a display image displayed on the display unit 290 of the performer's terminal, and Figure 4 (B) is a display image displayed on the display unit 290 of the viewer's terminal.

The content information (content image), which is the displayed image, includes common information (common image) of the content displayed in common on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information (difference image) of the content displayed in either the performer terminal or the viewer terminal. For example, in Fig. 4(A) and Fig. 4(B), the pond, tree, rock, character CH, and fishing rod are common information of the content displayed in common on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal. On the other hand, the shadow of the fish FH is displayed on the viewer terminal as shown in Fig. 4(B) but not on the performer terminal as shown in Fig. 4(A), and is difference information of the content displayed on either the performer terminal or the viewer terminal. That is, in Fig. 4(A) and Fig. 4(B), the common information of the pond, tree, rock, character CH, and fishing rod are displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and the difference information of the fish shadow is displayed only on the viewer terminal and not on the performer terminal. Therefore, only the viewer can see the fish shadow, and the performer cannot see the fish shadow.

In FIG. 5(A), a viewer posts a posting object OBC, which is a tip, into the virtual field VFL, and this posting is accepted. That is, based on the viewer's operation on the viewer's terminal, a posting object OBC, which is posting information for the content or the performer, is posted, and this posting is accepted. In this case, in this embodiment, a display process of difference information is performed on the performer's terminal according to the posting status of the viewer's posting information. Specifically, when a viewer posts a tip, etc., the fish shadow, which is difference information that was not displayed on the performer's terminal as in FIG. 4(A), is displayed on the performer's terminal as shown in FIG. 5(A). For example, depending on the status of the posting by the viewer, the display control of the difference information on the performer's terminal is changed. That is, the display control is changed from the display control of not displaying the fish shadow, which is difference information, on the performer's terminal as in FIG. 4(A), to the display control of displaying the fish shadow, which is difference information, on the performer's terminal as in FIG. 5(A).

As described above, the content distribution system of this embodiment accepts postings of information for content or performers based on the viewer's operation of the viewer terminal. As explained in Figures 4(A) and 4(B), a process is performed to display common information for the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and differential information for the content that is displayed on either the performer terminal or the viewer terminal and is information for encouraging operation by the performer. Then, as explained in Figure 5(A), when posted information such as tips from a viewer is accepted, a process is performed to display differential information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information.

In this way, when a viewer posts information in response to a performer's actions, the display process for content difference information on the performer's terminal is performed according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. Therefore, not only is it possible for viewers to react to the performer's actions using the posted information, but the display process for difference information according to the posting status makes it possible to encourage the performer to take action in response to the viewer's reaction to the posted information. This makes it possible to realize two-way communication rather than one-way communication from the viewer to the performer, and realizes a mechanism that makes it easier for the performer to respond with action in response to the viewer's reaction to the performer's actions. It is therefore possible to provide a content distribution system that allows performers and viewers to be closely involved, and it becomes possible to significantly improve the appeal and entertainment value of content distribution and the viewer's enthusiasm for content distribution.

In addition, in this embodiment, a process is performed in which at least a portion of the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal depending on the posting status of the posted information. For example, in FIG. 4(A), the fish shadow, which is the difference information, is not displayed on the performer terminal, but as shown in FIG. 5(A), when a viewer posts a tip, the fish shadow, which is the difference information, is displayed on the performer terminal. In this way, the performer can see the fish shadow that was not visible in FIG. 4(A) in FIG. 5(A), which makes it possible to encourage the performer to take action such as casting a fishing rod in a position where the fish shadow can be seen. Therefore, it becomes possible to realize a mechanism that makes it easier for the performer to respond with action to the viewer's reaction to the viewer's posted information.

In this embodiment, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is set according to the posting status of the posted information. For example, for the difference information of the content, what is to be displayed, where it is to be displayed, when it is to be displayed, how much it is to be displayed, how easily it is to be displayed, or for what display period, etc. are set. For example, in FIG. 5(A), the shadow of the fish FH, which is the target for capture in the fishing game, is displayed as the difference information. Also, the shadow of the fish, which is the difference information, is displayed at the location where the viewer has inserted the posted object OBC. Also, the shadow of the fish, which is the difference information, is displayed at the timing when the viewer inserted the posted object OBC. Alternatively, the display of the shadow of the fish by inserting such a posted object OBC is performed only when the posting is performed within a given period such as the reception period or the bonus time period. For example, when the number of posts for the posting object OBC is one as in FIG. 5(A), the fish shadow of one fish FH is displayed as the difference information, and when the number of posts for the posting object OBC is multiple as in FIG. 5(B), the fish shadows of multiple fish FH are displayed as the difference information. Alternatively, the fish shadow may be displayed in a display mode that is easier to see the more the number of posts for the posting object is. For example, when the number of posts is small, the fish shadow is displayed semi-transparently, and when the number of posts is large, the fish shadow is displayed as a normal image that is not semi-transparent. Alternatively, the more the number of posts is, the longer the display period for the fish shadow is.

Figures 6(A) to 7(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a fighting game. Figures 4(A) to 5(B) are examples of cases where the difference information of the content (fish shadows) is displayed on the viewer terminal and not displayed on the performer terminal, while Figures 6(A) to 7(A) are examples of cases where the difference information of the content is not displayed on the viewer terminal and is displayed on the performer terminal. For example, in Figures 6(A) and 6(B), the character CH, the enemy characters CE1 to CE3, and the virtual field VFL, which is the battle field, are common information of the content displayed in common on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal. On the other hand, the menu screen MS, which displays information on the options for the action, is displayed on the performer terminal as shown in Figure 6(A), but is not displayed on the viewer terminal as shown in Figure 6(B), and is the difference information of the content displayed on either the performer terminal or the viewer terminal. For example, the menu screen MS displays information on the options for selecting the action of the character CH corresponding to the performer, and items such as attack, magic, defense, and items are displayed as options. Thus, in Figures 6(A) and 6(B), the common information, namely the character CH, enemy characters CE1-CE3, and virtual field VFL, is displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, while the difference information, namely the information on the action options, is displayed only on the performer terminal, not on the viewer terminal. Therefore, only the performer can see the action options menu screen MS, and the viewer cannot see the options menu screen MS.

In FIG. 7(A), a viewer posts a tip by inserting a posting object OBC into the virtual field VFL, and this posting is accepted. In this case, in this embodiment, a process of displaying difference information on the performer terminal is performed according to the viewer's posting status. Specifically, when a viewer posts a tip, the "Special Move A" item, which was not displayed as an option in FIG. 6(A), becomes displayed in FIG. 7(A). In other words, the display control of the options, which are difference information, is changed according to the posting status of the viewer. That is, the display control is changed from the control of not displaying the "Special Move A" option, which is part of the difference information, as in FIG. 6(A), to the display control of displaying the "Special Move A" option, as in FIG. 7(A).

In this way, as shown in FIG. 7(A), by a viewer posting a posting object OBC, which is a tip, the options for the performer's actions are increased, and the character CH corresponding to the performer can select a new action, such as unleashing special move A. Therefore, not only can viewers react to the performer's actions through posted information such as tips, but the performer can be encouraged to perform a new action such as special move A in response to the viewer's reaction to the posted information. Therefore, a system is realized that makes it easier for performers to respond to viewer reactions to the performer's actions with their own actions, and content distribution can be realized that allows performers and viewers to be closely involved.

In the present embodiment, even in the case of FIG. 7(A), the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer's terminal can be set according to the posting status of the posted information, and it is possible to set what, where, at what timing, how much, how easily visible, and for what display period to display. For example, in FIG. 7(A), a new item (special move A) of the action options of the character CH corresponding to the performer in the battle game is displayed as the difference information. Also, on the condition that the viewer throws the posted object OBC into the position of the character CH, a new item is displayed as an option. Also, when the viewer throws the posted object OBC into the position of the character CH, a new item is displayed as an option. Also, when the viewer throws the posted object OBC into the position of the character CH, a new item is displayed as an option. Alternatively, a new item is displayed as an option when the viewer throws the posted object OBC into the position of the character CH. Alternatively, a new item is displayed as an option when the posted object OBC is thrown into the position of the character CH. Alternatively, the number of items newly displayed as options is changed, the visibility of the item is changed, or the display period of the item is changed according to the number of posted objects OBC.

In addition, in FIG. 7(B), when a viewer inserts a posted object OBC, images of monster characters CM1 and CM2, which are differential information that had not been displayed on the performer terminal until then, are displayed. In this case, the monster characters CM1 and CM2 are displayed at the position where the posted object OBC was inserted, and depending on the number of posted objects OBC, the number of monster characters CM1 and CM2 displayed is changed, the degree of visibility is changed, and the display period is changed.

Figures 8(A) to 9(B) are explanatory diagrams of the method of this embodiment when applied to live distribution of a VR character. In this live distribution, the performer selects an action, and in the virtual field VFL of the virtual space, the VR character CH performs a performance according to the selected action. For example, the VR character CH waves, jumps, and claps while dancing. In this case, for example, in Figures 8(A) and 8(B), the character CH and the virtual field VFL are common information of the content displayed in common on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal. On the other hand, the menu screen MS, which displays information on the action options of the character CH, is displayed only on the performer terminal and not on the viewer terminal, and is therefore differential information of the content. In addition, in this live content, multiple viewers can vote to select clothing accessories to be worn by the character CH. And as shown in Figure 8(B), the voting screen VS, which shows the voting by the multiple viewers, is displayed only on the viewer terminal and not on the performer terminal, and is therefore differential information of the content. This voting screen VS displays images of the clothing items that are the subject of voting, such as hats, ribbons, and boots, and the viewers can see these images of the clothing items, but the performers cannot see these images of the clothing items because they are not displayed on the performers' terminals.

In FIG. 8(B), for example, a hat has been selected as number one based on votes posted by multiple viewers. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9(A), the image of the hat OBH, which is difference information that was not displayed on the performer terminal in FIG. 8(A), is now also displayed on the performer terminal. That is, a process is performed to display difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the posted information by multiple viewers. For example, a process is performed to display an image of the hat OBH, which is difference information that is displayed on the viewer terminal but not displayed on the performer terminal, on the performer terminal according to the posting status based on votes posted by multiple viewers.

In addition, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is also set according to the posting status of multiple viewers. For example, in FIG. 8(B), multiple viewers posted votes, and since the number of votes for the hat was the highest, an image of the hat is displayed on the performer terminal in FIG. 9(A). However, if the number of votes for the ribbon was the highest, an image of the ribbon is displayed, and if the number of votes for the boots was the highest, an image of the boots is displayed. In other words, which of the clothing items, which are the difference information, is displayed on the performer terminal is determined according to the number of votes, which is the posting status of multiple viewers, and the display content of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is determined. Also, if a hat is selected by voting, the hat is displayed at the head position of the character CH, and if a boot is selected by voting, the boots are displayed at the foot position of the character CH. In other words, the position of the clothing items, which are the difference information, on the character CH is determined according to the number of votes, which is the posting status of multiple viewers. Also, for example, if a clothing item with a very high number of votes is selected, the display mode of the difference information may be changed, such as by displaying a special production effect.

As shown in Figure 9 (B), when a viewer inserts a submission object OBC and it is accepted, the number of options that the performer can select on the menu screen MS increases. For example, in Figure 9 (B), the option "wink" is added. If the performer selects "wink", the character CH will wink at the viewer who threw in the submission object OBC. As a result, when a viewer reacts to the performance of character CH by inserting a submission object, the performer will be able to select a new option item generated by this reaction, and when the performer selects this option item, a wink reaction will be made towards the viewer. Therefore, it is possible to provide a content distribution system that allows performers and viewers to be closely involved.

2.2 Processing Examples Various processing examples of this embodiment will now be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, the content distribution system of this embodiment determines whether or not the viewer has posted information by operating the viewer terminal (step S1), and if so, accepts the viewer's posting of the information (step S2). For example, in Figures 4 (A) to 9 (B), when a viewer posts by inserting a posting object OBC into the virtual field VFL, this posting is accepted. Note that the viewer's posting is not limited to this, and for example, the posting object may be an object that is not displayed on the terminal device, or the posting may be a posting comment rather than a posting object.

The content distribution system then performs a process to generate content information for displaying common information to be displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and differential information to be displayed on one side (step S3). For example, in Figures 4(A) and 4(B), content information is generated such that the virtual field VFL, character CH, etc. are displayed as common information on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and the fish shadow of the fish FH is displayed only on the viewer terminal as differential information. In Figures 6(A) and 5(B), content information is generated such that the virtual field VFL, character CH, enemy characters CE1 to CE3, etc. are displayed as common information on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and the option menu screen MS is displayed only on the performer terminal as differential information.

Next, the content distribution system executes a process of displaying the content on the viewer terminal (step S4). For example, the system performs a process of displaying the common information of the content on the viewer terminal, and when the difference information of the content is also displayed on the viewer terminal as in Figs. 4(A) and 4(B), the system performs a process of displaying the difference information on the viewer terminal. The content distribution system also executes a process of displaying the content on the performer terminal, and at this time, performs a process of displaying the difference information according to the posting status of the viewer's posting (step S5). For example, the system performs a process of displaying the common information of the content on the performer terminal, and when the difference information of the content is also displayed on the performer terminal as in Figs. 6(A) and 6(B), the system performs a process of displaying the difference information on the performer terminal. Then, the system further determines the posting status of the viewer's posting information, and performs a process of changing the display control of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting status, for example. For example, when a posting object OBC is inserted as in Fig. 5(A), the system performs a process of displaying the fish shadow, which is the difference information that was not displayed on the performer terminal in Fig. 4(A), at the insertion position of the posting object OBC. Also, as shown in FIG. 7(A), when a posting object OBC is entered, a display process is performed to add a new option item to the options displayed on the performer's terminal.

As described above, in this embodiment, the display process of difference information on the performer terminal is performed according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information. In this way, it becomes possible to realize content distribution that makes it easier for the performer to respond to the viewer's reaction to the performer's actions with their own actions.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the difference information is information that is displayed on the viewer terminal but not displayed on the performer terminal, processing is performed to display at least a portion of the difference information on the performer terminal depending on the posting status of the posted information. For example, as explained in Figures 4 (A) to 5 (B), even when the difference information is information that is displayed on the viewer terminal but not on the performer terminal, processing is performed to display at least a portion of the difference information on the performer terminal depending on the posting status of the viewer. By doing this, for example, difference information that was not displayed on the performer terminal can be displayed on the performer terminal by a viewer posting, and the display of this difference information can encourage the performer to take action in response to the viewer's posting. This makes it possible to realize content distribution that allows performers and viewers to be closely involved.

In addition, in this embodiment, as described in Figures 6(A), 6(B), and 7(A), the difference information is, for example, information on options for selecting an action by the performer, and the content is content that progresses as the performer's action is selected from the options. In this way, it becomes possible to execute a process for displaying the option information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the viewer's posted information, and it becomes possible, for example, to change the display control of the option information according to the posting status. For example, it becomes possible to realize a process for adding a new option item to the option information displayed on the performer terminal, or, when option information is information that is displayed on the viewer terminal but not on the performer terminal, to display the option information on the performer terminal according to the posting status of the viewer.

In addition, in this embodiment, the posted information is information posted by the viewer by consuming the viewer's parameters, for example. For example, the viewer's parameters are a parameter for the fee paid by the viewer for a charge, or a parameter for the number of posted objects or posted comments. In this way, it is possible to determine the posting status of the posted information posted by consuming the viewer's parameters, and to perform a display process of difference information on the performer's terminal according to the posting status.

In this embodiment, the content is, for example, game content that progresses through the player's operations. This makes it possible to realize live streaming that broadcasts the game as it progresses through the player's operations. For example, in Figures 5(A) to 6(B), the content of a fishing game progresses through the player's operations, and live streaming is realized that broadcasts the game as it is played. In Figures 7(A) to 8(B), the content of a character battle game progresses through the player's operations, and live streaming is realized that broadcasts the game as it is played.

Figure 11 is a flowchart that explains the process of setting the display content or display mode of difference information depending on the posting status.

First, the content distribution system judges the posting status of the viewer's posted information (step S11). For example, the posting status is judged based on the type of posted information, the content of the posted information, the amount of posted information, the timing of receiving the posted information, the posting location of the posted information, or the attribute information of the viewer who posted the information. Then, depending on the posting status of the posted information, the display content or display mode of the difference information to be displayed on the performer terminal is set (step S12). For example, the system sets what, where, at what timing, how much, how easily visible, or for what display period the difference information of the content is to be displayed. Then, it executes a process of displaying the content on the performer terminal (step S13). That is, it executes a process of displaying the difference information of the content, etc. on the performer terminal with the display content or display mode set depending on the posting status.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is set according to the posting status of the posted information. In this manner, it is possible to change the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal in various ways according to the posting status of the posted information. For example, depending on the posting status such as the type, content, amount, acceptance timing, posting position, or viewer attribute information of the posted information, the content difference information of the content to be displayed, where to display it, when to display it, how much to display, how easily to display it, or for what display period to display it, can be changed. Therefore, it is possible to realize effective display processing of difference information that reflects the posting status of the viewer, and it is possible to realize content distribution that allows close interaction between the performer and the viewer.

Figure 12 is a flowchart explaining the process of displaying difference information at a position designated according to the posting status. First, the content distribution system judges the posting status of the viewer's posted information (step S21). Then, in the display area of the content of the performer terminal, a process of displaying the corresponding difference information at a position designated according to the posting status of the posted information is executed (step S22). Taking Figures 5 (A) and 5 (B) as an example, when a posting is made in which a posting object OBC is inserted, a process of displaying a fish shadow, which is difference information, at the insertion position of the posting object OBC is executed. Taking Figure 7 (A) as an example, when a posting is made in which a posting object OBC is inserted at the position of the performer's character CH, a menu screen MS displaying information on the action options of the character CH is displayed, for example, at a position near the character CH. Taking Figure 7 (B) as an example, when a posting object OBC is inserted at the positions of the monster characters CM1 and CM2 that were not displayed on the performer terminal, the monster characters CM1 and CM2 are displayed at the insertion position of the posting object OBC in the display area of the content of the performer terminal. Taking FIG. 9(A) as an example, when the hat OBH is selected by voting based on the number of votes from multiple viewers, the hat OBH will be displayed at the position of the character CH's head in the content display area of the performer terminal.

In this embodiment, a process is performed in which the corresponding difference information is displayed in a position in the display area of the content on the performer's terminal that is specified according to the posting status of the posted information. In this way, the difference information of the content is displayed in a position specified by the posting status of the viewer, and the difference information displayed in that position can encourage the performer to take action. For example, as shown in FIG. 5(A), by displaying a fish shadow, which is difference information, at the insertion position of the posted object OBC, it is possible to encourage the performer to take action such as fishing for the fish in the fish shadow. Also, as shown in FIG. 7(B), by displaying monster characters CM1 and CM2, which are difference information, at the insertion position of the posted object OBC, it is possible to encourage the performer to take action such as attacking these characters CM1 and CM2.

Figure 13 is an example of posted information. In Figure 13, the posted information includes an identification ID, which is identification information of the viewer who made the post, and attribute information of the viewer who made the post. The viewer's attribute information is the viewer's user information and viewing history information, etc. The posted information also includes information on posted objects such as tips inserted by the viewer. The posted object information is, for example, information such as the type, name, and shape of the posted object. The posted information also includes posted position information and posted amount information. The posted position information is information on a position specified depending on the posting status of the posted information, such as information on the insertion position of the posted object or information on a position specified by trajectory information of the posted object. The posted amount information is information about the amount of posted information, such as information on the number of posted objects or information on the number of comments in the posted comments, for example.

Figure 14 is a flowchart explaining the display process of difference information according to the amount of posted information, the timing of reception, the posting position, and the viewer's attribute information. First, the content distribution system judges the posting status of the viewer's posted information (step S31). Then, it executes the display process of difference information on the performer terminal according to the amount of posted information, the timing of reception of posted information, the posting position, or the viewer's attribute information (step S32). For example, the display control of difference information on the performer terminal is changed according to the amount of posted information, the timing of reception of posted information, the posting position, or the viewer's attribute information. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is set according to the amount of posted information, the timing of reception of posted information, the posting position, or the viewer's attribute information.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the display process of the difference information on the performer terminal is performed according to the amount of information posted by the viewers. For example, as shown in FIG. 5(A) and FIG. 5(B), the image of the fish shadow, which is the difference information displayed on the performer terminal, changes according to the number of posted objects OBC corresponding to the amount of posted information. Specifically, the more posted objects OBC there are, the more fish are reflected as fish shadows. Also, in FIG. 8(A) to FIG. 9(A), the type of clothing, etc., which is the difference information displayed on the performer terminal, changes according to the number of votes from multiple viewers corresponding to the amount of posted information. In this manner, it is possible to realize the display process of the difference information on the performer terminal that reflects the amount of information posted by the viewers. Therefore, it is possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the amount of posted information posted by the viewers, improving the appeal and entertainment value of content distribution.

In addition, in this embodiment, the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal according to the timing at which the posted information was received. For example, on the condition that the posted information was received within a given period such as a reception period or a bonus time period, the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal according to the posting status. Alternatively, the difference information is displayed on the performer terminal according to the posting status at a timing according to the timing at which the posted information was received. In this way, it is possible to realize display processing of difference information on the performer terminal that reflects the timing of the viewer's posting. Therefore, it becomes possible to change the display content and display mode of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the timing of the viewer's posting, improving the appeal and entertainment value of content distribution.

In this embodiment, the posted information includes information on the posting position in the display area of the content, and display processing of difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position is performed. For example, as shown in Figures 5(A) and 5(B), the posted information includes information on the posting position where the posted object OBC is the throwing position, and display processing of difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position is performed, such as displaying a fish shadow at the posting position. Also, as shown in Figure 7(B), display processing of difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position is performed, such as displaying monster characters CM1 and CM2 at the posting position. In this way, it is possible to realize display processing of difference information on the performer terminal that reflects the posting position included in the posted information. Therefore, it is possible to change the display content and display mode of difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position information included in the viewer's posted information, improving the appeal and excitement of content distribution.

In this embodiment, the display process of the difference information on the performer terminal is performed according to the attribute information of the viewer. For example, the display control of the difference information on the performer terminal is changed according to attribute information such as the viewer's user information and viewing history information. Specifically, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is set according to user information such as the viewer's gender, age group information, and friend information, and viewing history information such as the number of times the viewer has viewed the content, viewing frequency, or most recent viewing history. For example, the display content or display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal is made different when a viewer who is a friend of the performer posts and when a viewer who is not a friend of the performer posts. Also, for example, when a viewer who has viewed the performer's content for the first time posts, the display process of the difference information is performed to give the performer an advantage or to favor the performer. Alternatively, conversely, when a viewer who has viewed the performer's content many times posts, the display process of the difference information may be performed to give the performer an advantage or to favor the performer. In this way, it is possible to realize the display process of the difference information on the performer terminal that reflects the attribute information of the viewer who is viewing the content. This makes it possible to change the content and display format of difference information on the performer's terminal depending on the viewer's attribute information, improving the appeal and entertainment value of content distribution.

Although the present embodiment has been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications are possible that do not substantially depart from the novel matters and effects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, a term described at least once in the specification or drawings together with a different term having a broader or similar meaning may be replaced with that different term anywhere in the specification or drawings. In addition, the process of accepting posted information, the process of displaying common information and difference information of content, the process of displaying difference information according to the posting status, etc. are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, and equivalent methods are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

100: Processing section, 102: Reception processing section, 104: Transmission processing section, 106: Content information generation section, 108: Acceptance section, 118: Management section, 120: Display processing section, 130: Sound processing section, 170: Storage section, 172: Content information storage section, 174: User information storage section, 196: Communication section, 200: Processing section, 260: Operation section, 262: Interface section, 270: Storage section, 280: Information storage medium , 290...display section, 292...sound output section, 296...communication section, 500...server system, 510...network, CH, CM1, CM2...characters CE1, CE2, CE3...enemy characters, FH...fish, MS...menu screen, OBC...posted object, OBH...hat, TM, TM1 to TMn...terminal device, TMA...viewer terminal, TMP...performer terminal, VFL...virtual field, VS...voting screen

Claims (14)

A content distribution system that distributes content that progresses based on the operation of a performer's terminal by a performer to a viewer's terminal of a viewer,
a reception unit that receives posting information for the content or the performer based on an operation of the viewer terminal by the viewer;
a display processing unit that performs display processing of common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information of the content that is information that is displayed on one of the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, the difference information being information for encouraging operation by the performer;
Including,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system, comprising: a process for displaying the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with a posting status of the posted information of the viewer. In claim 1,
When the difference information is information that is in a display state on the viewer terminal and in a non-display state on the performer terminal,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system comprising: a process for displaying at least a part of the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with the posting status of the posted information. In claim 2,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system, comprising: a display content or a display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal, the display content or the display mode being set according to the posting status of the posted information. In claim 1,
When the difference information is information that is in a hidden state on the viewer terminal and in a displayed state on the performer terminal,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system, comprising: a display content or a display mode of the difference information displayed on the performer terminal, the display content or the display mode being set according to the posting status of the posted information. In claim 3 or 4,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system comprising: a process for displaying the corresponding difference information at a position in the content display area of the performer terminal that is designated according to the posting status of the posted information. In any one of claims 1 to 5,
the difference information is information of options for selecting an action of the actor,
A content distribution system, wherein the content progresses as the actor's actions are selected from the options. In any one of claims 1 to 6,
The posting status is a status regarding the amount of the posted information,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system, comprising: a process for displaying the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with an amount of the posted information. In any one of claims 1 to 7,
The posting status is a status at the time when the posting information is received,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system that performs a display process of the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with a timing at which the posted information is received. In any one of claims 1 to 8,
The posted information includes information about a posting position in a display area of the content,
The posting status is a status of the posting position,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system that performs a display process of the difference information on the performer terminal according to the posting position. In any one of claims 1 to 9,
The posting status is a status of attribute information of the viewer who posted the posted information,
The display processing unit is
A content distribution system which performs a display process of the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with attribute information of the viewer. In any one of claims 1 to 10,
A content distribution system, wherein the posted information is information posted by the viewer by consuming the viewer's parameters. In any one of claims 1 to 11,
A content distribution system, wherein the content is game content that progresses according to the player's operations. A server system that distributes content that progresses based on the operation of a performer's terminal by a performer to a viewer's terminal of a viewer,
a reception unit that receives posting information for the content or the performer based on an operation of the viewer terminal by the viewer;
a display processing unit that performs display processing of common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information of the content that is information that is displayed on one of the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, the difference information being information for encouraging the performer to perform an operation;
Including,
The display processing unit is
A server system that performs a process of displaying the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with a posting status of the posted information of the viewer. a reception unit that receives a post of a content that progresses based on an operation of a performer's terminal by a viewer or a post of information for the performer, based on an operation of the performer's terminal by a viewer;
a display processing unit that performs display processing of common information of the content that is commonly displayed on both the performer terminal and the viewer terminal, and difference information of the content that is information that is displayed on one of the performer terminal and the viewer terminal and that is information for encouraging an operation by the performer,
Make your computer work
The display processing unit is
A program for performing a process of displaying the difference information on the performer terminal in accordance with a posting status of the posted information of the viewer.

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