Microsoft is introducing an Xbox AI that helps players finish games
Copilot for Gaming will provide situation-specific tips during gameplay
Microsoft is bringing a gaming version of its Copilot AI service to Xbox.
Copilot for Gaming is described as an “AI-driven sidekick” which is “designed to be your personalised gaming companion”.
Players will be able to use the service to “get to [their] favourite games faster”, get coaching to improve their skills and connect to their friends.
During the latest episode of the official Xbox Podcast, an early prototype of Copilot for Gaming was demonstrated, including an in-game assistance feature which lets players ask for help while still in the game.
In an example showing during the video, a Minecraft player picked up some wood then entered a text prompt asking: “Okay, I’ve got some wood. What can I do with that?”
Copilot for Gaming then replied by telling the player to open their inventory and place the oak logs into crafting area to turn them into wooden planks.
Another example shows the player on the Xbox mobile app, asking the AI: “I want to get back into Age of Empires IV, can you install it?” The AI then installs the game for the player, and offers to give a recap of what happened the last time they played the game.”
A third example shows the AI analysing the player’s situation and offering advice on it. The player is shown in the character select screen in an Overwatch game, asking the AI what to do when their favourite character Echo has already been chosen by someone else.
“Echo’s taken, but Cassidy would be a solid pick with this team,” the AI replies. “His mid-range hitscan and Mercy’s damage boost will work great on Ilios Ruins. Plus you’ve done great with him on this map before.”
Later in the demo, the player dies quickly and asks Copilot what happened. “You stayed in the fight too long after your teammates were down,” it replies. “Diving straight into Ramattra was a death sentence. Next time, retreat to regroup with your team.”
Discussing Xbox’s vision for Copilot for Gaming, Xbox corporate vice president of gaming AI Fatima Kardar explained that the feature should be entirely optional, and shouldn’t become overbearing should a player wish to start using it.
“It’s not just about AI showing up to help you, it’s about AI showing up at the right moment,” Kardar explained. “We really have to think about the experience we’ve built, it cannot be intrusive.”
An early preview version of Copilot for Gaming on mobile will be coming to Xbox Insiders soon, giving them a chance to test the service and provide feedback.
