AI crafts games: Google launches Playground

Google has unveiled Playground, a new experimental browser-based platform designed for creating custom games using AI prompts. Available in the US for adults, Playground eliminates the need for coding, allowing users to build games through a conversational interface. Users can start from scratch, utilize starter prompts, or get guided support to develop their concepts, with the ability to test and refine their creations instantly.

The platform enables users to modify game physics, rules, characters, and environments simply by asking. Once completed, games can be shared via a link or published to the Playground Explore gallery, where others can play them. Certain genres will feature in-game leaderboards and multiplayer capabilities. Playground is powered by Google's foundation models, including Gemini and Lyria, enhanced by a custom harness.

This launch coincides with Google's partnership with Unity on Unity Spark, an AI game-making experience targeting professionals, set to launch in beta later this year. Google's move into AI-assisted game creation mirrors similar initiatives from Meta and Roblox, indicating a growing trend in the gaming industry.