AI for Games – Mastering the Algorithms Behind Smarter Gameplay (Third Edition)

: Summary of the Book

AI for Games (Third Edition) by Ian Millington is a definitive guide for anyone serious about developing intelligent and responsive game AI systems. This extensively updated edition builds on the foundations of earlier versions to include the latest techniques, algorithms, and data structures used in modern video game development. Aimed at both industry professionals and aspiring developers, the book offers a complete walkthrough of AI implementation—from basic state machines to advanced behavior trees, navigation meshes, and decision-making systems. With its practical focus and professional-level depth, it’s one of the most respected resources in the field.

? What You Will Discover in the Book

You’ll explore the full spectrum of AI used in games today, including pathfinding, decision trees, utility-based AI, learning algorithms, and agent-based modeling. The book not only explains the how but also the why, giving you a deep understanding of how different AI systems impact gameplay. You’ll learn how to structure AI systems for performance, realism, and maintainability across different game genres. The updated content includes new exercises for practice and a companion website with downloadable, executable source code, making it easier than ever to apply what you learn directly in your own game projects.

? Why Should You Read This Book

You should read AI for Games if you’re a game developer, computer science student, or AI enthusiast who wants to build smarter, more engaging video games. Unlike general AI books, this one is tailored for the gaming industry, addressing real-world constraints like performance, player experience, and in-game behavior realism. It’s both a professional reference and a hands-on tutorial, making it perfect whether you’re working on AAA titles or indie projects. With its clear explanations, deep technical content, and regular code updates from the author, it’s a book that grows with you as your projects get more complex.

: About the Author

Ian Millington is a veteran game developer and AI expert with decades of experience in both industry and academia. He is the founder of several game studios and has worked on a wide range of commercial titles across platforms. Known for his deep knowledge and practical teaching style, Millington is also the author of the widely used textbook Game Physics Engine Development. His work bridges theory and application, making complex AI concepts understandable and actionable for developers at all levels. His companion websites and open-source contributions continue to support the game dev community worldwide.