Google launches Play Games Sidekick, an AI-powered gaming coach that gives real-time tips and strategies without leaving Android games.
Google is bringing a fresh twist to mobile gaming with the launch of Play Games Sidekick, an AI-powered coach designed for Android devices. The new feature, unveiled as part of Google’s expanding Gemini integration, promises to give gamers real-time assistance and strategies without forcing them to exit their gameplay.
In its official blog, the company confirmed that Play Games Sidekick will appear as a screen overlay within supported titles downloaded from the Google Play Store. Players can engage with the AI for guidance at any moment. Whether it’s advice on choosing the right team setup in EA Sports FC Mobile or adopting an aggressive strategy in battle games, the AI coach is ready to help.
Google explained that the Sidekick leverages Gemini Live’s screen-sharing technology to understand gameplay context. Much like chatting with the Gemini app, players can hold live conversations with the AI and receive walkthroughs tailored to their current in-game situation.
Importantly, the new feature isn’t just a reactive coach—it also supplies background information about the games through the overlay. This allows users to stay up to date with mechanics, rules, and progress without pausing to search online.
Initially, Play Games Sidekick will support only a limited selection of titles. However, Google says it is committed to expanding the library of compatible games over the coming months. The rollout mirrors the company’s approach with Circle to Search, which was first limited to certain devices before being gradually made more accessible. In contrast, Play Games Sidekick will be available to all Android devices, regardless of brand.
Overhauled Play Games Profile
Alongside the Sidekick announcement, Google also revealed a major revamp for Google Play Games profiles. Until now, gamers’ stats and achievements often appeared fragmented due to differences across devices, platforms, or game publishers. With the new unified profile, all progress will be tracked in one place.
Gamers will also be able to design their own AI avatars, giving them a new way to showcase personality and style while playing. These avatars will appear in their profiles and likely tie into future social or competitive features within the Play Games ecosystem.
Google Play Games League
Recognizing the growing popularity of competitive play, Google is introducing the Play Games League. Much like leaderboards in popular titles such as Clash of Clans, the new league system will rank players globally across various supported games. High-ranking players will earn rewards through the Google Play Points program.
The first official Play Games League is set to kick off on October 10 with Subway Surfers. The event will run until October 23, marking the start of what could become a recurring global competition for Android gamers.
With Play Games Sidekick, revamped profiles, and the launch of global leagues, Google is aiming to build a more immersive and interconnected gaming community on Android—one where AI not only powers devices but also coaches players to victory.
