Sony patents 'auto-play' game mode

The patent outlines an 'auto-play' mode powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that could potentially let players skip repetitive gameplay segments.

The proposed system would utilize AI to learn and simulate a player's gameplay style based on data from cloud-based services like the PlayStation Network (PSN). This AI model could then automatically play through certain parts of the game, mimicking the player's actions.

Players would have the flexibility to resume the Auto-Play Mode at any time or receive notifications when grindy sections are completed. While this idea may be controversial among gamers, it could be beneficial for those who prefer to skip lengthy and repetitive gameplay segments.

Interestingly, the patent suggests that this technology could also be applied to third-party games by utilizing data from cloud systems like PSN during the AI's training.

The implementation of this Auto-Play Mode is not yet clear, but it could potentially be available on current and rumored future PlayStation systems, including the PS5, PS5 Pro, and a rumored PlayStation handheld.