What if the next time you’re stuck in a game, you could just ask it for help? That’s something that Sony appears to be planning, as it’s submitted a patent for a smartphone application named PlayStation Assist, which would effectively function like Alexa for PlayStation 4 games. The examples shown include Horizon: Zero Dawn, where you could ask the game for nearby health replenishing items, and these would then be marked on the in-game map. There’s also a Skyrim-related example, where the assistant explains how to obtain certain loot.
It seems like a sound idea, but it’s worth remembering that patents aren’t always representative of in-development projects, and so it may all come to nothing. The functionality would also be dependent on studios actually supporting it, which you can’t always rely on. Would you be willing to use something like PlayStation Assist to clear up a collectibles run – or do you think it’s cheating? Mark your map in the comments section below.
[source patentscope.wipo.int, via twitter.com]
Comments 23
Why use an app? google the information or use youtube.
Another idea they’re taking from Wii U
@hotukdeals i have to agree.
a bit of a pointless idea tbh.
what the point of gaming while using such a thing?
Asking to show nearby healing items sounds like using a old-fashioned cheat code. As cheat codes are rarely ever seen these days, I can't see developers implementing this kind of help system.
@manu0 Don't recall hearing about such a feature. Must not have been used much then.
@HellOfaHunter Cos some people get stuck and need a little help. Why do you think guides are popular?
@AdamNovice stuck for healing items? if it's collectible for platinum that's ok. but what about healing and exploring on your own
@HellOfaHunter It's just an example...
@Octane i hope it will be used in good way rather than make such an app guide me
I've managed over 30 years of not asking my games for help and I don't think I'm going to start now
@hotukdeals because just asking the PlayStation eliminates having to open another app then look for the specific thing. this is actually a sound idea for people who like to 100% their games for platinum or people who get stuck a lot.
there is a market for this maybe not some of you here.
Oh god a phone app for your games? What is this, 2017?
But...this is even more redundant than the Nintendo app....as if its a phone app you talk to, I can just say "Okay Google" and away I go, because its already part of my phone that can access a far larger database of information that doesn't require specific game support.
Also, isn't this same thing something Stadia has built into its controller or something?
Unnecessary idea. It won't happen. As and when I need help from Google finding pickups or collectibles I would, till then finding them on my own is all part of the fun.
That would be a waste of time.
I think it might be a good idea for a specific game that’s meant to work well with a smartphone but doesn’t require it. Basically if it’s a real driving part of the game that’s well made, it could be good, otherwise, not really.
I mean imagine it being used as your own otacon or something like that.
A bit of an immersion-breaking thing if you're lost in the story.
Might not be so bad in something like Horizon, where it could effectively act as your Focus. But in something like TLOU2 where everything's gone to the dogs, "hey phone, where can I find more ammo?" ... hmm... nope.
But as you say, a patent doesn't necessarily mean a product... they're often used just to protect ideas in case someone else thinks of it and wants to make some money.
Worked well for Microsoft - Kinect!! I think its added support for those Alexa/google voice thingies too so it makes sense for Sony to do something similar too. I don't want it - like I didn't on Xbox either but its better to have and not need/want than to want/need and not have...
@manu0 No such feature existed. Do you ever get bored of trolling?
The only time I ask questions during a game is when I'm getting really frustrated......and I don't think it has the answers to the types of questions I'd be asking it. If anything I'd probably have my account banned!
It’s virtually impossible to get stuck in modern videos games because they are mostly far too easy.
if it works as good as the ps messages, hmm, I'll let it be...
Will never use it, just like I'll never own an Alexa. Don't need more ideas for hackers to hack into my life. Other than that, bring back strategy guide books, or, do what many others do...look online and find the answers, or...do what official gamers do...play and find out by yourself...that's what makes it a 'game!'. My opinion though.
@YozenFroghurt and @InsertUsername. I think @manu0 is referring to Miiverse.
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