Sony patent could boost PS5 indie game development with cloud-based tool and generative AI

Despite a growing selection of PS5 games, some studios lack the resources to support the console. A Sony patent discovered by Clawsomegamer seeks to expand indie game development using a cloud-based platform. Without relying on a dev kit, the service would also include generative AI tools to create assets.

The patent called “Cloud-based Platform for Real-World Experimentation Driven Game Incubation at Scale” was published on December 11th. The technology promises to allow indie game-makers to “publish and test a full game”. Alternatively, they could offer players segments of a title to receive critical feedback.

Transforming the typical game studio

The filing describes a remote server with the processing power and storage necessary to complete a project. As a result, a developer wouldn’t need to request gear from Sony or test PS5 games on local hardware. Multiple team members scattered around the globe could access a work-in-progress. Microsoft and Nvidia already have similar options in place with Azure and Omniverse.

Sony registered a related patent earlier in 2025, proposing shipping PCIe cards that act as dev kits. While the components connect to servers, the latest solution is exclusively remote.

Studios can also upload short videos promoting titles to social media platforms like TikTok. However, one illustration in the document may raise concerns about adding more shovelware. Developers would have the ability to employ “Machine Learning Models to Create Game Assets.”

The role of AI in cloud-based game-making

When used recklessly, critics fear that generative AI tools will produce generic-looking slop. At the same time, they can dramatically speed up the development process. Newer companies benefit by not needing extensive staff or generous funding.

Even with the potential drawbacks, the Sony patent may have an eye on the PS6 era. Particularly with the Switch 2, dev kit access was a major point of contention with third-party partners. Studios could immediately begin supporting the console without new hardware.