Google Play Games Expands Android Gaming to PC

Google is making significant strides with Google Play Games on PC, aiming to expand the platform's reach by bringing more Android games to it. But it's not just Android games that are in the spotlight; Google is also intensifying its efforts to include native PC games on Google Play Games.

Starting soon, all Android games will be available on PC by default, unless the developer opts out. Previously, developers had to opt in, which limited the game selection. This shift promises a more extensive catalogue for PC gamers.

Pushing to Blur the Lines Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming

Currently, over 50 native PC games are accessible on Google Play Games. Google plans to open this opportunity to all PC developers later this year. To help users identify which games perform well on PC, Google is introducing playability badges. Games labeled as ‘optimized’ meet Google’s high-quality standards for an exceptional experience. A ‘playable’ badge indicates that a game meets the minimum requirements, while ‘untested’ games won't appear in regular browsing—you'll need to search for them directly.

This approach is reminiscent of Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. If Google successfully brings most or all 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, with TABS Mobile and Disco Elysium set to join later this year. These PC-to-mobile ports will be fully optimized for touchscreens.

If Google can perfect the cross-platform experience, imagine the convenience of purchasing a game once and enjoying it seamlessly on both your phone and PC. For more details on Google's gaming plans, be sure to check out their official blog post.

Also, don't miss our coverage on New Star GP, an arcade racing game from the creators of New Star Soccer.