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Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro Panics While Playing Pokémon, DeepMind Finds

Summary: DeepMind found that Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro “panics” during classic Pokémon gameplay—dropping tactics and making poor decisions when under pressure. While it excels in logical puzzles, the AI mimics human stress behavior. Twitch audiences are already noticing the quirks.

DeepMind observes Gemini 2.5 Pro enters simulated panic during classic Pokémon gameplay—mirroring human stress responses and revealing new AI behavior insights.

Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro “Panics” While Playing Classic Pokémon Games

AI Exhibits Stress-Like Hesitation When Pokémon Near Fainting

DeepMind researchers discovered that Gemini 2.5 Pro occasionally enters a notable “panic mode” during early Pokémon game playthroughs. When its Pokémon are close to fainting, the AI’s decision-making degrades—stopping use of previously effective tools and strategies. These lapses mimic the rushed decisions humans make under pressure.

Panic Behavior in Action

  • Gameplay slowdown: In critical situations, Gemini stops using complex reasoning and tools it normally employs, hindering progression.
  • Human-like stress reactions: Though Gemini doesn’t experience emotions, its erratic play mirrors human panic responses in high-pressure moments.
  • Streamer feedback: Twitch audiences following “Gemini Plays Pokémon” streams have actively pointed out and debated these “panic” moments.

AI Comparison: Claude and Gemini

  • Claude AI quirks: The Anthropic model once intentionally fainted its whole team, mistakenly believing that would expedite progress through Mt. Moon.
  • Puzzle-solving strength: Both Gemini and Claude apply real-world logic to solve in-game puzzles—Gemini can complete Victory Road’s boulder puzzles in a single attempt using reasoning hints.

Why This Research Matters

  • Understanding AI under pressure: Monitoring AI “panic” can help developers enhance robustness and decision-making stability in real-world scenarios.
  • Design improvements: Insights from gaming stress can guide upgrades to AI models, reducing performance breakdowns in complex or adversarial environments.

Sources