2 min read
Google is bringing its Gemini AI closer to mobile gaming with a new feature called Play Games Sidekick. The tool adds a floating overlay to titles downloaded from the Play Store, giving players quick access to helpful functions and Gemini Live.
Sidekick appears as a small tab that can be moved around during gameplay. By default, it offers shortcuts for screenshots, screen recording, and YouTube livestreaming. Players will also see achievements and game stats inside the overlay.
But the bigger focus is Gemini. Google wants Sidekick to serve as a channel for its AI, offering real-time support and tips while you play. In a press demo, Gemini Live suggested strategies for The Battle of Polytopia and even cracked a few awkward game-specific jokes. Since Gemini accepts screen sharing, it could recognize in-game items with little context and still provide useful advice.
While it won’t replace a detailed walkthrough written by humans, Sidekick makes finding quick answers easier than searching online. The approach is similar to Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot, which also embeds an AI assistant into games.
However, Google is starting cautiously. The overlay can be dismissed completely, and Gemini features will only roll out in select games over the coming months. Early partners include EA and NetMarble with titles like Star Wars Galaxy of Heroes, FC Mobile, and Solo Leveling Arise.
Alongside Sidekick, Google is revamping the Play Games platform itself. A new platform-level gaming profile will unify stats and achievements across Android and PC. Players can follow friends, see their activity, and even create AI-generated avatars. Google is also adding community forums for Play Store games, where users can ask questions and exchange tips.
The rollout highlights Google’s attempt to take gaming more seriously after the failure of Stadia. Crucially, the PC version of Google Play Games is now leaving beta, putting the company in more direct competition with platforms like Steam.
