Microsoft has apparently filled for a patent for a hint system which will be used by videogames released on the Xbox 360 home gaming console. The aim is to allow players who have trouble getting past tough sections of the game to get hints provided by other players. It's not clear whether all the players will be automatically enrolled in the system or whether an opt in system will be integrated.

The patent has been developed by Siliconera and the specifications are talking about a searchable database for which the entire content will be offered by users. It's not clear whether whole walkthroughts will be made available or whether only small hints are part of the concept. Microsoft apparently is not only aiming to offer text based help but also the possibility of taking screenshots of tough areas, providing videos or using tags and keywords to make it easy to get through difficult areas.

Microsoft is not saying when the new in-game help system will be introduced or whether it will be linked to something like Xbox Live. More details will probably be made available once the project crystallizes enough. The more hardcore gaming crowd which uses the Xbox 360 as their main gaming console might not react too warmly to a hint system which makes the gaming experience on the console easier.

Microsoft seems to be walking in the footsteps of Nintendo, which recently unveiled its own Super Guide concept. The system is designed to allow players who get stuck at some point during a game to see a video solution for the whole level. The Guide can also be used to get through some difficult areas automatically, without any input from the player himself. The first high profile game to use the Super Guide is New Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo Wii.