Sony has patented a new AI-powered system designed to help players when they get stuck in a game. The technology involves an AI-controlled “ghost player” demonstrating parts of a game or completing it in its entirety.
Patent details and publication
The patent was filed in September 2024. This week, the World Intellectual Property Organization published an international status report on the application.
It describes a system called “Ghost Player” that is based on artificial intelligence and can be used directly in the game.
How the “Ghost Player” works
According to patent documents, players can call up an AI-generated version of their character. This either demonstrates a solution or completes a section entirely. Two variants are planned: a “Guide Mode,” which shows the solution, and a “Complete Mode,” which completes the section independently.
An example given is a scenario from a game such as Uncharted, in which an AI-controlled version of Nathan Drake demonstrates a puzzle before the player continues on their own.
Differentiation from existing help systems
Help functions are already established in many games. These include skipping difficult passages, lowering the difficulty level, or classic hint systems.
Sony is also already focusing on support: With the PlayStation 5, the PS5 Game Help feature was introduced, which displays images or videos with solution aids via cards.
The now patented approach goes beyond this, as the AI actively intervenes in the gameplay instead of merely displaying hints.
Training the AI
According to the patent, the AI model is not based on predefined developer inputs. Instead, it is trained using existing game material. This allows the “ghost player” to react flexibly and solve game situations independently.
Criticism of too much support
In the past, there have been discussions about excessive help in games. Titles such as God of War Ragnarök have been criticized for having companion characters give very early and clear hints about puzzles. The new system would further develop this form of support from a technical standpoint.
No announcement for implementation
There are currently no indications that Sony plans to actually use the patented technology in future games or hardware. Patents of this kind are often filed without ever being implemented.
AI-based assistance systems are gaining importance in the gaming industry.
Last year, for example, Microsoft introduced Copilot for Gaming, an AI-powered companion for gamers. Such systems are primarily intended to support less experienced users.
FAQ
An AI system that demonstrates or automatically completes game scenes.
“Ghost Player.”
In September 2024.
Ghost Player actively intervenes in gameplay instead of just displaying hints.
No, it is to be trained based on existing game recordings.
No, only examples are given.
No, there are no official plans.
Other companies are also working on AI-powered gaming aids.
