Google is making significant strides with Google Play Games on PC, expanding its gaming ecosystem by bringing more Android games to the platform and introducing native PC games. Starting soon, all Android games will be available on PC by default, unless developers opt out. This marks a shift from the previous requirement where developers had to opt in, significantly broadening the 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 aims to open the platform to all PC developers, allowing them to port their games effortlessly. To enhance user experience, Google is introducing playability badges to indicate game performance on PC. Games labeled as 'optimized' meet Google's high standards for quality, while 'playable' badges signify that games meet minimum requirements. 'Untested' games will not appear in regular browsing and must be searched for directly. This system is reminiscent of Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. If Google successfully integrates most of its Android games onto PC, it could pose a significant challenge to Steam.
Conversely, Google Play Games is also bringing popular PC titles to Android devices. 'Dredge' is already available, with 'TABS Mobile' and 'Disco Elysium' set to launch later this year. These ports will be fully optimized for touchscreen use.
If Google can streamline this cross-platform setup, it could revolutionize gaming by allowing players to purchase a game once and enjoy it seamlessly on both their phone and PC. For more details on Google's gaming plans, be sure to check out their official blog post.
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