Google Play Games on PC is making significant strides, expanding its reach to encompass a wider array of Android and native PC games. Soon, all Android games will automatically be available on PC unless developers explicitly choose to opt out—a major shift from the previous opt-in model that limited the available catalog.

This initiative aims to bridge the gap between mobile and desktop gaming. Currently, over 50 native PC games are accessible on Google Play Games, and Google intends to open the platform to all PC developers later this year. To enhance user experience, Google is introducing playability badges: "Optimized" indicates games meeting Google's high-quality standards; "Playable" signifies meeting minimum requirements; and "Untested" games will require direct searches. This system mirrors Steam's compatibility badges for the Steam Deck. If successful, this expansion could pose a significant challenge to Steam's dominance.

Conversely, Google Play Games is also bringing popular PC titles to Android. Dredge is already available, with TABS Mobile and Disco Elysium slated for release later this year, all optimized for touchscreen controls.

The potential for seamless cross-platform play—purchasing a game once and playing it on both PC and mobile devices—is a compelling aspect of this strategy. For more 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.