Google Is Bringing Android Games to PC via Google Play Games

Google Play Games on PC is making significant strides, expanding its offerings in two key ways: bringing more Android games to the platform and actively recruiting native PC games. Soon, every Android game will automatically be available on PC unless a developer specifically chooses to opt out—a major shift from the previous opt-in system that limited the available catalog.

Bridging the Gap Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming

Currently, Google Play Games boasts over 50 native PC games. Later this year, Google aims to open its platform to all PC developers. To enhance discoverability and ensure quality, Google is introducing playability badges. "Optimized" games meet Google's highest quality standards, while "playable" games meet minimum requirements. "Untested" games will require direct searches. This system mirrors Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. Google's ambitious plan to bring its Android game library to PC could pose a serious challenge to Steam's dominance.

Conversely, Google Play Games is also expanding its Android library with popular PC titles. Dredge is already available, with TABS Mobile and Disco Elysium slated for release later this year. These ports will be fully optimized for touchscreens.

The potential for seamless cross-platform play—purchasing a game once and playing it on both phone and PC—is a game-changer. For further details on Google's gaming initiatives, refer to their official blog post.

Also, check out our news piece on New Star GP, an arcade racing game from the creators of New Star Soccer.