Google Play Games Sidekick + Gemini Live: AI in Your Games
Google is rolling out Play Games Sidekick, a new movable overlay for Android games that integrates Gemini Live to provide real-time, in-game AI assistance. Sidekick appears as a small, movable tab you can slide open while playing and offers tools like quick screenshot and screen-recording buttons, a YouTube live shortcut, achievement and stat summaries, plus swipeable game tips powered by Gemini.
What it does
- Moveable overlay for games downloaded from Google Play.
- Quick access to screenshots, screen recording and streaming to YouTube.
- Gemini Live integration for swipeable tips, strategy suggestions and live conversational help (can use screen-sharing to understand context).
- Available only in select games at launch — Google cited partners like EA and NetMarble (e.g., Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, FC Mobile, Solo Leveling Arise).
Why it matters
Sidekick aims to make quick help easier than leaving a game to search for guides. While not a replacement for deep, human-written walkthroughs, Gemini Live can offer fast, contextual tips and strategies. Google is taking a cautious rollout: the overlay can be dismissed, and Gemini features will appear in selected titles over coming months.
Platform updates
Google is also expanding Play Games across Android and PC — the PC version has exited beta — and introducing a platform-level gaming profile that tracks achievements and stats across devices, plus community forums and AI-generated profile pictures.
Privacy & opt-in
Google emphasizes user control: Sidekick is optional and can be dismissed to the notification shade. Gemini-powered features are being limited to select partners initially.
Want to learn more?
Official details: Google blog — Gemini Live & Play Games updates
Would you use an AI sidekick while gaming? Share which game you’d try it in and why — comment below!