Google is making significant strides with Google Play Games on PC, expanding its reach by bringing more Android games to the platform. Additionally, Google is 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 developers opt out. Previously, developers had to opt in, which limited the available game catalog.
Pushing to Blur the Lines Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming
Currently, over 50 native PC games are accessible on Google Play Games. Later this year, Google plans to open the platform to all PC developers. 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. A 'playable' badge indicates that the game meets the minimum requirements, while 'untested' games will not appear in regular browsing and must be searched for directly.
This approach is reminiscent of Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. If Google successfully brings most of its Android games to PC, it could pose a significant challenge to Steam.
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 follow later this year. These PC-to-mobile ports are fully optimized for touchscreens.
If Google can seamlessly integrate this cross-platform setup, it could revolutionize gaming by allowing users to purchase a game once and play it on both their phone and PC without additional complications. For more details on Google's gaming plans, check out their official blog post.
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