Android Games Now Playable on PC with Google Play Games

Google is significantly expanding the reach of Google Play Games on PC by making more Android games available on the platform and increasing efforts to include native PC games. Starting soon, all Android games will automatically be accessible on PC unless developers opt out, a shift from the previous opt-in requirement that limited the game selection.

Pushing to Blur the Lines Between Mobile and Desktop Gaming

Currently, over 50 native PC games are available on Google Play Games, with plans to open the platform to all PC developers later this year. To help users identify games that perform well on PC, Google is introducing playability badges. Games labeled as 'optimized' meet Google's high-quality standards for an excellent gaming experience, while those marked 'playable' meet the minimum requirements. 'Untested' games will not appear in regular browsing and require direct searches to find.

This system 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 launch later this year. These ports are fully optimized for touchscreens.

If Google can seamlessly integrate this cross-platform setup, it would be possible for gamers to purchase a game once and enjoy it on both their phone and PC without additional complications. For more details on Google's gaming plans, check out their official blog post.

Don't forget to read our news on 'New Star GP', an arcade racing game from the creators of New Star Soccer.