Sony Patents AI Ghost Player for Game Assistance

Sony Interactive Entertainment has filed a patent for an artificial intelligence system designed to assist video game players who encounter difficulties, potentially allowing the AI to complete challenging sections on their behalf. The patent, submitted in September 2024 and recently made public through a World Intellectual Property Organization status report, outlines an "AI Generated Ghost Player" that could integrate directly into PlayStation titles.

The technology envisions a customizable AI assistant, referred to as a ghost player, which takes the form of in-game characters to provide real-time help. According to the patent filing, players could activate the feature through natural language commands or triggers when stuck on puzzles, combat, or exploration elements. It includes multiple modes to vary the level of intervention. In Guide or Combat modes, the AI would demonstrate strategies, such as optimal attack patterns or puzzle solutions, allowing users to replicate actions themselves. For more extensive support, Full Game or Complete modes would enable the ghost player to execute entire sections, advancing the game without further player input.