Google Play Games Now Brings Android Games to PC

Google is significantly expanding Google Play Games on PC, aiming to bridge the gap between mobile and desktop gaming. Soon, every Android game will be available on PC by default, unless developers opt out. Previously, developers needed to opt in, which limited the game selection. This shift promises to vastly increase the number of games accessible on PC.

Blurring the Lines Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming

Currently, over 50 native PC games are available on Google Play Games, with plans to open the platform to all PC developers later this year. To help users identify games that perform well on PC, Google is introducing playability badges. Games labeled as 'optimized' meet Google's high standards for a superior gaming experience, while 'playable' indicates they meet the minimum requirements. 'Untested' games will not appear in regular browsing and require direct searches. This system is similar to Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck, hinting at Google's ambition to challenge platforms like Steam, especially if it successfully ports most Android games to PC.

Conversely, Google Play Games is also bringing well-known PC games to Android devices. Dredge is already available, with TABS Mobile and Disco Elysium set to join later this year. These ports are optimized for touchscreens, enhancing the mobile gaming experience. If Google can perfect this cross-platform integration, it could allow gamers to purchase a game once and enjoy it seamlessly on both their phone and PC.

For more details on Google's gaming initiatives, be sure to check out their official blog post. And don't miss our news on New Star GP, an arcade racing game from the creators of New Star Soccer.