Google has announced a series of updates to Google Play that aim to improve the way players discover, try and play paid games on mobile devices and PCs. The announcement was made during the GDC Gaming Festival, where the company highlighted new features designed to make gaming more seamless, social and AI-assisted.
Google also revealed that around 160 million gamers use the You tab each month to stay updated on their favorite games.
More Paid Games Beyond cell phone and PC
Although free-to-play games remain very popular, Google Play is expanding its catalog with more paid titles available on both mobile and PC platforms.
In the coming months, indie titles like:
- Moonlight Peaks
- Sled game
- Low budget repairs
will be made available on both mobile devices and Windows PCs.
Using the player profile, players can sync their progress across devices, allowing them to pick up the game right where they left off when switching between mobile and PC.
New PC section in Play Store
Google Play is introducing a dedicated PC section within the Games tab of the Play Store. This section will highlight games optimized for Windows PC.
Players will also be able to:
- Add games to their wishlist
- Get notified when titles go on sale
This feature is designed to improve game discovery for players interested in cross-platform gaming.
Game reviews for paid games
Google Play is also launching Game Trials, allowing players to try out select paid games for free before purchasing them. During the trial period, players can access the full version of the game. If they later choose to purchase the title, their progress will automatically continue.
Initially, Game Trials will roll out for select paid mobile games, with PC support expected in the future.
“Buy once, play anywhere” award.
Google is also introducing Buy Once, Play Anywhere pricing for select games. With this model, players can buy a game once and use it on both mobile and PC without purchasing separate versions.
The feature is currently available for select titles, including:
- The Reigns series
- OTTTD
- Dungeon Jumper
Community Posts and Tips for AI games
Google Play is also expanding social and AI-driven gaming features.
- Community Posts: The Community Posts feature allows players to ask and answer questions directly in the Play Store app, creating a hub for gaming tips, strategies and tutorials. The feature is currently available in English for dozens of popular games, with support for additional languages and titles planned in the future.
- Play Sidekick Games: Google is also rolling out Play Games Sidekick, an in-game overlay that provides useful game information and AI-generated tips during gameplay. This allows players to get help without leaving the game.
Availability
Google confirmed that these features will roll out gradually:
- Game Trials: Coming soon for select paid mobile games, PC support planned later
- Buy once, play anywhere: Available now for select games
- Community Posts: Live in English for some popular titles
- Play Sidekick Games: Appears gradually for selected paid games
According to Aurash Mahbod, Vice President and General Manager of Games at Google Play, these updates represent the beginning of a broader effort to improve the gaming experience on Google Play. The company says additional improvements are planned throughout 2026, aiming to deliver a more personalized and connected gaming experience across mobile and PC platforms.
