Sony has filed a patent for an AI-driven "ghost" support feature designed to aid players who find themselves stuck during gameplay

Sony has developed a new AI technology designed to help gamers who encounter obstacles in video games.

Known as an 'AI Generated Ghost Player,' this system is intended to aid players struggling with challenging puzzles or bosses by offering assistance through a 'Ghost' character that can help complete parts or entire sections of a game, thus allowing players to advance.

The innovation, first covered by AllaboutAI, functions as an overlay, acting as if a cooperative partner is showing players the solution within the game environment.

The patent also outlines various modes of support that players can select based on the level of assistance they require.

Filed globally in 2024, the patent recently captured attention following a status update. It details a system meant to offer "assistance during gameplay of a video game."

The abstract notes: "The method includes executing a video game for a game session. The player controls a player character during the game session. The method includes detecting selection of ghost assistance for the game session."

This could potentially connect with an AI engine to provide "ghost assistance" via natural-language processing and depict the ghost character within the game.

The patent's introduction acknowledges that despite advances in gaming technology, many players still need help, as complex games often lead some to stop playing or struggle with tasks. Although players can usually research online or watch gameplay videos, these methods can be time-consuming and not always relevant.

This is not Sony's first foray into AI-driven solutions. A leaked video last year reportedly showed PlayStation's software engineering director, Sharwin Raghoebardajal, interacting with an early AI version of the character Aloy. Additionally, Microsoft has been exploring AI integration in gaming systems for some time.