In a world of ChatGPT resumes, cover and thank you letters, graphics, and videos, artificial intelligence will finally find its way into video games. From a generation that went from video game patterns, to Game Genie, to strategy guides, to online tips and tricks, to now an AI helper in Xbox.
That’s right, the plan to insert your own personal artificial gamer is in the works. The news came when Microsoft issued patents for “State management for video game help sessions.” This will help gamers reach the next level and overcome difficult challenges when playing their favorite Xbox games.
Help Me Beat This Boss AI
I recently left a company that asked every department to try to implement artificial intelligence in some way, shape, or form. It can be a useful tool when used correctly. Microsoft has found a new way to use it for its gaming platform.
The Xbox universe is now looking forward to its own personal artificial intelligence helper. Think of it as your own personal shopper, a big brother, or a personal assistant. Can’t beat a level? Don’t worry, your AI pal can get you through anything! Don’t know where that hidden gem is? Ask for assistance from the AI tour guide.
This is an insane flex for new video games and gamers. This will allow players to ask for assistance when struggling to get through the stages of the game. Imagine not being able to beat the main boss of the level or a difficult part of the game and getting a little assist from your virtual pal.
This will eliminate hours and hours of frustration and failure. The world of gaming and struggle is getting a big reality check. No longer do we have to throw the controller at the wall when we keep getting knocked out by Tyson in Punch Out!
Is This Type of AI for Video Games a Good Thing?
It really depends on the player! Are you determined to figure things out on your own, or are you looking up YouTube videos to try to solve every riddle? This may speed the storylines along so you can complete the game faster than ever. Just imagine running the track with no hurdles. At this point, couldn’t you just watch someone else play the game on Twitch?
The use of the AI assistance will depend on what the gamer’s ultimate goal is. Do you want to run through each story to see how it turns out? Or do you take pride in completing all the tasks and side quests to prove you’re the best with the “sticks?”
A helper will be your tour guide to these games on the Xbox platform. I am picturing Uncle Eddie announcing Wayne Newton’s house on the right or Trevor Philips from Grand Theft Auto V pointing out the cleanest meth lab in town! Either way, it should be interesting to see if gamers adapt to the change with joy or annoyance.
Final Thoughts
Man, how times have changed! I remember having to grab my older brother when I had trouble beating a level in Nintendo. Where was AI when no one could beat that damn Ninja Turtles NES game or the Lion King game for Sega? Those were the games my generation could have used some AI assistance with.
This is a far-fetched take, but is this the version of participation trophies for gamers? Can’t beat a level? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’re no longer in the days of patience and taking pride in the games we beat. We are in the day and age of let’s get this done, and move on to the next. With Xbox setting the trend, it is probably only a matter of time before Sony follows suit.
Point of Vision 