Square Enix Doubles Down on Google Gemini With In-Person Tokyo Event Following AI Companion Backlash
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Square Enix and Google Gemini are launching an in-person AR event in Tokyo for Dragon Quest, continuing their AI partnership despite recent community backlash over AI companions in Dragon Quest X.
Square Enix and Google are continuing their high-profile partnership with a new live event in Tokyo, just months after introducing a divisive artificial intelligence companion to Dragon Quest X. As reported by Fran Ruiz over at Eurogamer, the upcoming Gemini Quest event spans four locations across Shibuya and Harajuku, inviting players to hunt down giant monster statues and use augmented reality to cast spells through the Gemini app.
While the concept leans heavily into the playful side of mixed reality, the execution relies strictly on generative image technology, complete with physical mini-medal rewards for participants. This follows a rather controversial rollout earlier this year when Square Enix added a Gemini-powered conversational slime companion to the Japan-exclusive MMORPG. The ongoing push highlights a broader regional trend, as several Asian game studios accelerate artificial intelligence integration despite widespread skepticism and pushback from players across global markets.
For the community, these activations sit at an uncomfortable intersection of marketing gimmickry and emerging technology. While interactive AR events have a long and successful history in bringing fans together in physical spaces, leaning on generative tools for asset creation continues to alienate players who value human artistry. As major publishers test the waters with these tools, the community reaction remains sharply divided between curiosity and fatigue over corporate technology trends.
Tags: Dragon Quest, Square Enix, AI, Google Gemini, Gaming News
Original article: Eurogamer