Google has had Google Play Games on Windows since 2022, allowing players to enjoy Android versions of games on Windows. The concept behind Google’s initiative is to cater to the vast player base on mobile devices who may want to play the same games on their PCs. By creating a platform to distribute their games on PC, Google Play Games currently offers over 3,000 games in 140 countries.
Recently, Google announced the expansion of Google Play Games to support PC versions of games, making it a direct competitor to other PC game stores such as Steam, GOG, EA App (formerly Origin), Ubisoft Connect (formerly Uplay), and the Microsoft Store.
Initially, there are four PC games available for download on Google Play Games – Lineage2M, Odin: Valhalla Rising, Genshin Impact, and Dragonheir: Silent Gods, with Solo Leveling: Arise set to follow later this year. Google is not yet accepting games from independent developers but interested developers can register their interest in advance.
Based on my testing, games that are available on both Windows and Android like Genshin Impact allow players to choose the installation on both types of devices. However, games exclusive to Windows like Lineage2M only have the option to install on Windows with the “Install on Windows” button (which downloads the .exe file for installation).
Source: Google, Android Developers
TLDR: Google Play Games now supports PC versions of games, increasing its competition with other PC game stores, offering a selection of games for download and installation on both Windows and Android devices.
Leave a Comment