Sony has patented a concept that would allow an artificial intelligence not only to assist players, but in some cases to take over gameplay entirely.

The video game industry continues to explore artificial intelligence across multiple areas of development. Companies such as Square Enix and Krafton have already embraced AI as part of their production pipelines, while other major players are investigating how the technology could support gamers directly. Sony’s latest patent points in that direction, outlining a system built around a so-called “ghost player” designed to step in when challenges become overwhelming.

As first reported by Polygon, PlayStation’s parent company filed the patent application in September 2024, although a clearer picture of the initiative only emerged in 2026. The document, titled “AI-Generated Ghost Player,” describes a system that links an active game session with an assistive AI engine. Depending on how it is configured, this AI provides different forms of in-game assistance.

According to the patent, players could rely on the system in two distinct ways. A Guide Mode would demonstrate how to solve a puzzle or overcome a challenge by briefly handing control of the protagonist to the computer. A Full Mode, on the other hand, would allow the AI to directly play through a difficult section. The idea is to prevent players from getting stuck, with the feature remaining entirely optional.

PlayStation Has Filed Other Controversial AI Patents

Interestingly, PlayStation made headlines with another patent shortly before the end of the year. That proposal focused on modifying video game or film content in real time to edit, mute, or remove material deemed offensive. The concept was quickly interpreted by some as a form of AI-driven censorship.

It is worth noting, however, that patents do not always translate into finished products. Sony has yet to announce any concrete plans to let AI play games on behalf of users or skip difficult segments. Still, these filings are worth watching closely, as they offer insight into how the company may shape the future of interactive entertainment.

Source: 3djuegos