Automated Game Parameter Tuning via AI Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual adjustment of game parameters in online games is time-consuming and often results in suboptimal tuning, leading to player dissatisfaction and increased dropout rates due to the large parameter space and reliance on expert tuning.

Innovation Solution

An automated method for tuning game parameters using an iterative process that involves simulating gameplay with AI players, comparing target performance metrics to actual results, and adjusting parameters to optimize game settings, such as those in FarmVille-type games, to achieve desired player engagement and revenue targets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual adjustment of game parameters is used, then expert tuning can achieve optimal results, but the process is time-consuming and cannot keep up with rapid game development

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter tuning precisionVSAvoidtuning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated self-tuning of game parameters through computer agents that independently adjust parameters based on simulated player behavior and performance metrics, eliminating the need for manual expert intervention and significantly reducing tuning time while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment processes with automated computer-based systems that use algorithms to simulate gameplay, analyze performance data, and automatically modify parameters, substituting human expertise with computational mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If manual parameter tuning is performed, then detailed optimization is possible, but the large parameter space makes comprehensive tuning impractical

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter optimizationVSAvoidparameter space complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the complex parameter space into manageable groups and uses hierarchical tuning approaches, where different parameters are adjusted at different levels of optimization, making the vast parameter space tractable for comprehensive analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates virtual copies of the game environment through simulation frameworks that replicate gameplay scenarios, allowing extensive parameter testing without modifying the actual game code and enabling comprehensive exploration of the parameter space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If ad hoc parameter adjustment is used, then quick changes are possible, but the results are suboptimal and inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetuning speedVSAvoidtuning quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements closed-loop feedback mechanisms where simulated player performance data is continuously analyzed and fed back into the tuning process, allowing automated agents to iteratively adjust parameters and converge on optimal values, ensuring both speed and quality of tuning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs systematic parameter modification strategies where multiple parameters are adjusted in coordinated sequences based on simulated performance data, transforming ad hoc changes into structured optimization processes that maintain consistency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Manufacturing precision

If expert tuning is relied upon, then high-quality optimization is achieved, but the process becomes dependent on specialized knowledge and resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetuning qualityVSAvoidtuning accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The automated system performs self-service tuning operations, executing complex optimization tasks independently without requiring expert intervention, thereby making high-quality tuning accessible to anyone with access to the game platform and basic parameter definitions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10729979B2Automated tuning of computer-implemented games
Publication Date: 2020.08.04 ZYNGA INC
  • US10729979B2 patent drawing
  • US10729979B2 patent drawing
  • US10729979B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for automated tuning of a computer-implemented game is configured to enable definition of a performance metric indicative of player performance in a computer-implemented game that has tunable gameplay parameters. A performance target is defined that represents target values for the performance metric during progress in the game. The system executes a gameplay simulation using an automated player, and performs an iterative tuning operation based on results of the simulation. The tuning operation automatically determines a suggested value set for the tunable parameters.