Sony's AI Patent Enables PlayStation Games to Play Themselves

Jan 10, 2026, 2:32 AM

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Sony has recently patented a groundbreaking technology known as "Ghost Player," which aims to assist players who find themselves stuck in PlayStation games. This AI-driven system allows players to summon an AI-generated "ghost" version of their character, which can either demonstrate how to solve a puzzle or complete a section of the game entirely for them.

The patent, originally filed in September 2024, has gained attention following a recent status update from the World Intellectual Property Organization. The Ghost Player system is designed to analyze gameplay data and identify scenarios where players may need assistance, providing tailored solutions based on their specific challenges.

How the Ghost Player Works

The Ghost Player technology operates by utilizing existing gameplay footage from various sources, including YouTube, Twitch, and PlayStation Network data. This allows the AI to learn from a wide array of player experiences, enabling it to offer real-time assistance that is contextually relevant to the player's current situation.

For instance, if a player is struggling with a puzzle in a game like Uncharted, the AI could activate a "Guide Mode," where it showcases the solution through an AI-controlled character. Alternatively, in "Complete Mode," the AI could take over and finish the section for the player.

Evolution of In-Game Assistance

This new technology appears to be an evolution of the PS5's Game Help system, which provides players with tips and tricks via images and videos during gameplay. While the Game Help feature has received praise for its convenience, it has not been widely adopted across all titles. Critics have noted that some recent Sony games, such as God of War Ragnarok, offer excessive assistance through NPCs that provide hints too readily, potentially detracting from the challenge of the game.

The Ghost Player system aims to address these concerns by offering a more sophisticated form of assistance that is not merely a pre-recorded series of inputs but rather a dynamic interaction based on the player's unique gameplay context.

Potential Impact on Gaming

The introduction of AI-powered in-game assistants is becoming increasingly common in the gaming industry. Microsoft has also ventured into this space with its Gaming Copilot feature, which serves as an AI-driven companion designed to help players navigate challenges. As gaming technology continues to evolve, the integration of AI could significantly enhance accessibility and player engagement, particularly for those who may struggle with complex game mechanics.

However, the patent does not indicate any immediate plans for implementation in future PlayStation hardware. As with many patents, it remains to be seen whether this technology will be developed into a functional product or remain a concept.

Conclusion

Sony's Ghost Player patent represents a significant step forward in the use of AI within video games, potentially transforming how players interact with challenging content. By providing tailored assistance, this technology could make gaming more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience, while also sparking discussions about the balance between assistance and challenge in game design.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such technologies will be closely watched by both developers and players alike, marking a new era in interactive entertainment.

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