NEW YORK, January 6, 2026—Sony is exploring artificial intelligence to assist gamers, patenting technology that could essentially play games *for* you. The move comes as Microsoft actively tests AI as a video game guide with its Copilot feature.
AI-Powered ‘Ghost Player’ Could Offer Solutions—Or Just Spoil the Fun
Sony’s new patent details an AI system designed to learn gameplay from multiple sources and provide assistance to players.
Sony’s interest in AI extends beyond simple guidance. Leaked footage from last year showcased a talking AI replica of Aloy, the protagonist from Horizon Forbidden West, hinting at deeper integration of the technology into future PlayStation experiences. AI is also expected to play a key role in the PlayStation 6, according to reports from July 2025.
The recently discovered patent, filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (originally filed in 2024), outlines a “ghost player” powered by generative AI. This AI wouldn’t just offer hints; it could potentially complete levels or puzzles on a player’s behalf.
Unlike traditional game assistance programmed by developers, this AI would learn by analyzing gameplay footage from sources like YouTube and Twitch, identifying optimal solutions. The patent describes two modes: a “guide mode” where the AI demonstrates the solution, and a “complete mode” where it plays through the challenge autonomously. Players could even interact with the AI, receiving explanations and customizing its appearance—potentially even taking the form of characters from other games or movies.
Is This Solving a Problem That Doesn’t Exist?
While the intent is admirable, the patent feels somewhat redundant given the existing assistance features in many modern games. Several titles now offer options to skip difficult sections—like Insomniac’s Spider-Man—or provide in-game hints, as seen in God Of War: Ragnarök. The PlayStation 5 itself includes a Game Help system with videos demonstrating solutions to challenging obstacles.
The concept of a game playing itself isn’t entirely new either. Nintendo previously experimented with a “Super Guide” feature in games like Super Mario Galaxy 2 and various New Super Mario Bros. titles, allowing the game to complete levels for players who struggled. However, this feature was quietly removed after appearing in only five games, suggesting limited player interest.
- Sony has patented AI technology that could allow a ‘ghost player’ to assist—or even play—games for you.
- The AI would learn from gameplay footage on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
- The patent outlines two modes: a guide mode and a complete mode.
- Similar concepts have been tried before, with limited success, like Nintendo’s Super Guide.
- A study from last year indicated that AI-generated game guides can be unreliable and spread misinformation.
A study conducted last year revealed that AI-powered game guides can be surprisingly unhelpful and prone to inaccuracies—a concern amplified if the AI is learning from content on platforms like TikTok. Microsoft, meanwhile, continues to test its Copilot AI as a video game guide.
What do you think? Would you use an AI-powered ghost player in your games?
