Sony patents new AI ‘gaming ghost’ designed to take over when players get stuck

Sony has filed a patent for an AI gaming ghost that can take over when a player gets stuck.

Sony is exploring a new way to help gamers push through tough levels, filing a patent for an AI‑powered “gaming ghost” that can automatically step in and play on a user’s behalf when they hit a wall.

The patent describes the feature as a response to the growing complexity of modern games, noting that many players — especially those without advanced skills — often abandon titles when they can’t progress. According to the filing, a significant number of users struggle to complete certain tasks or challenges.

Sony points out that while players can search online for walkthroughs or watch gameplay videos, those methods can be slow, disruptive, and not always relevant to the exact scenario a player is facing. The proposed AI system aims to eliminate that friction by analysing the situation in real time and taking over gameplay until the obstacle is cleared.

The “ghost” would mimic the player’s style and preferences, stepping in only when needed and returning control once the challenge is resolved. If implemented, the feature could reshape how players interact with difficult games — offering a built‑in assist without forcing them to leave the experience or rely on external guides.

Sony has not yet announced whether the technology will appear in future PlayStation hardware or software, but the patent signals a continued push toward AI‑driven support tools in gaming.

The filing, seen by VGC, read: “Although video game technology has seen many advances, some players find themselves in need of assistance. Games become very complicated, so players who are not experts oftentimes quit playing or find it hard to complete tasks,” the filing reads. “Players are able to do research for the game or even look up prior gameplays on internet sites, but that process is time consuming and many times not very relevant to tasks and/or scenarios currently being encountered by the player.”