Google is making significant strides with Google Play Games on PC, expanding its reach by bringing more Android games to the platform. Not only that, but Google is also intensifying its efforts to introduce native PC games to Google Play Games. Starting soon, every Android game will be available on PC by default, unless the developer specifically opts out. Previously, developers had to opt in, which resulted in a smaller game catalog. This change promises to dramatically increase the number of games accessible on PC through Google Play Games.
Pushing to Blur the Lines Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming
Currently, there are over 50 native PC games available on Google Play Games. Later this year, Google plans to allow all PC developers to bring their games to the platform. To help users identify which games perform well on PC, Google is introducing playability badges. Games labeled as 'optimized' meet Google's high standards for a superior gaming experience. A 'playable' badge indicates that the game meets the minimum requirements, while 'untested' games will not appear in normal browsing and must be searched for directly. This approach is reminiscent of Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. If Google successfully brings all or most of its Android games to PC, it could pose a significant challenge to Steam.
On the flip side, Google Play Games is also bringing well-known PC games to Android devices. Dredge is already available, while TABS Mobile and Disco Elysium are set to join later this year. These PC-to-mobile ports are fully optimized for touchscreens.
If Google can make this cross-platform setup work seamlessly, imagine the convenience of purchasing a game once and being able to play it on both your phone and PC without any additional hassle. For more details on Google's gaming plans, be sure to read their official blog post.
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