ARCADE 2026 OFFICIAL GUIDE

Everything you need to know about the Google Cloud Arcade 2026 Season.

Welcome to Arcade 2026

The Google Cloud Arcade is a gamified cloud learning program designed to help learners build real, hands-on Google Cloud skills through labs, games, quizzes, and challenges — completely free. It is not just about swags; it is about learning cloud skills that matter for careers.

Program Timeline

Phase 1 (Cohort 1)

📅 January - June 2026

Tentative Start: Second week of January

Phase 2 (Cohort 2)

📅 July - December 2026

Facilitator program runs for 2.5 months per phase.

Mandatory Setup

1️⃣
Subscribe to The Arcade: You must subscribe at least once per season via the Arcade Home Page. Look for the "Thanks for filling out this form" email.
2️⃣
Public Profile: Your Google Skills Profile must be set to PUBLIC and email updates enabled.
✅
Eligibility: 18+ years old, working laptop/PC, enthusiasm to learn. No prior experience needed!

Points System

Hands-on Labs

  • Level 1 (12 labs) = 1 Point
  • Level 2 (12 labs) = 1 Point
  • Level 3 (8 labs) = 1 Point

Other Games

  • Base Camp (12 labs) = 1 Point
  • Certification Zone (8 labs) = 1 Point
  • Trivia (Weekly 4 labs) = 1 Point

Skill Badges (Booster) 🚀

  • 2 Skill Badges = 1 Point
  • 90+ Skill Badges = 45 Points (Huge Bonus!)

Strict Rules

  • 🚫 Do NOT complete skill badges unless instructed.
  • 🚫 Do NOT explore random badges or do lab-free courses on your own.
  • 🚫 Never share/sell voucher codes or accounts.
  • ✅ ONLY complete badges listed on the official Arcade page.