How we built the Google I/O 2026 Save the Date experience
Source: Google Developers Blog
MARCH 3, 2026
Google I/O 2026 returns May 19‑20 at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA. Before the keynotes, you can join the annual tradition: the save‑the‑date puzzle.
Experience Overview
This year’s experience showcases how AI can empower and accelerate developer workflows. The puzzle features five games across different genres, plus an unlockable sixth game with a beloved dino figure. Our team of creatives and developers collaborated in Google AI Studio to explore possibilities and prototype mechanics, using generated code as a solid foundation for production.
As concepts solidified and games grew in complexity, we transitioned to Google Antigravity for its strong agentic development capabilities, bridging early ideas into final builds.
Leveraging Gemini Models
Level creation – Gemini generated diverse levels and boards:
- Nonogram: first level is predetermined; levels 2‑3 are dynamically generated.
- Stretchy Cat: Gemini created level‑generation logic based on Hamiltonian pathing for random yet solvable levels.
- Word Wheel: Gemini produced 100 distinct levels.
Game features – Gemini is integrated directly into gameplay:
- Hole in One: acts as an AI caddy, offering contextual tips and commentary.
- Supersonic Bot: uses Gemini‑driven microphone controls where voice volume guides the Android Bot.
Game design planning – Completing all five games unlocks a hidden build called Dino Pal. Gemini animates this virtual pet with personality traits that adapt to your play style. To let non‑technical team members fine‑tune difficulty and length, we built a dedicated “game designer mode” in Google AI Studio and used it to plan core reward and penalty systems.
Tinker with the Games
All games are available in Google AI Studio, allowing you to explore the underlying code, experiment with prompts, and remix the logic to create something unique. If you build an interesting remix, share it with us using #GoogleIO.
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