Microsoft has patented a brand-new technology that could allow AI or human players to take over gameplay to help Xbox gamers.
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It’s been a rocky few weeks for the Xbox brand with Phil Spencer stepping down, leadership restructuring, and an overall negative player sentiment. However, it seems like the company is now back to shifting its focus to innovation with new systems to help gamers.
Microsoft has filed a brand-new patent (via WIPO) that allows an AI model, or even a human player, to take control of a game whenever needed. This undoubtedly has tons of use cases.
Microsoft’s Patent Reveals a New Xbox System That Can Play Games For You
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The Microsoft patent called “STATE MANAGEMENT FOR VIDEO GAME HELP SESSIONS” was first spotted by Tech4gamers. This concept is aimed at helping players who often find themselves stuck on a specific level or gameplay segment. In such situations, the helper, which can be an AI model or a human player, can take control of the gameplay for a temporary period of time.
Under this system, players would receive an on-screen prompt that would ask whether or not they would like assistance if they are struggling to progress. If they agree, the helper would step in and handle the situation.
This can include a lot of different scenarios, such as hard quests, boss fights, navigation, and other things. When it comes to racing games, the steering control could be handed over to the helper to complete difficult tracks. Microsoft takes note that existing methods of seeking in-game help are often “rather rudimentary” and can lead to frustration.
It’s unclear whether or when Microsoft plans to implement this patent into Xbox games. Still, the idea signals that the company is interested in making games more accessible to players who feel frustrated during difficult parts. It would also eliminate the need to pause the game and search through forums or YouTube for solutions. Sony has explored a similar AI assist patent that allows for gameplay to be taken over when players get stuck.
Microsoft’s New Patent For Xbox is Backed By Multiple Other Patents
Microsoft’s Xbox helper system patent goes beyond a single concept, as it’s supported by four additional patents that are designed to support the framework. The first patent focuses on a system that ensures the helper assisting a player is in the same age range. This is a move to ensure safer and age-appropriate interaction between users.
The second patent is based on tracking and representing game achievements. It suggests that players could earn achievements even if they’re being helped during certain sections of the game. This means players won’t have to worry about losing specific achievements if they’re not playing the game themselves.
The third patent addresses the issue of safeguards. It talks about a system that will prevent those helping from making any kind of malicious inputs on a player’s system when they take control. Finally, the fourth patent explores the use of machine learning models that could assist players.
With that said, what are your thoughts on this new Microsoft patent? Let us know in the comments below!
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