The world of gaming has been undergoing a significant transformation, all thanks to the rapid advancements in the field of technology. Google, a tech giant known for its innovation, has taken a step forward in this direction by introducing a way for users to play their favorite Google Play games on their PCs. This article offers a comprehensive guide on how you can indulge in the thrilling gaming experience on a larger screen.
Introduction to Google Play Games for PC
Google Play Games is an online gaming service and software development kit operated by Google, part of its Google Play product line, for the Android operating system. Introduced at Google I/O 2013, the service provides features for multiplayer gaming, cloud saves, social and public leaderboards, achievements, and anti-piracy measures.
In recent times, Google has been testing a new service, Google Play Games for PC, which allows users to enjoy Android games on their Windows desktop or laptop. This free service enables you to play select titles on a larger screen using a keyboard and a mouse. Plus, it syncs your progress across devices, so you can continue your game on your computer from where you left off on your phone, and vice versa.
Pre-requisites for Google Play Games on PC
Before you jump into the world of PC gaming with Google Play Games, there are a few minimum requirements you need to meet:
- Operating System (OS): You need to have Windows 10 (v2004) or higher installed on your PC.
- Storage: Your PC should possess a Solid State Drive (SSD) with a minimum of 10 GB of available storage space.
- Graphics: Your computer must be equipped with an Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU or something comparable.
- Processor: Your PC should have 4 CPU physical cores, and some games may require an Intel CPU.
- Memory: You must have at least 8 GB of RAM.
- Other requirements: You need a Windows admin account, and hardware virtualization must be switched on.
Google Play Games for PC: Availability
As of now, Google Play Games for PC is available in more than 120 countries globally. However, Google has plans to extend its availability to more regions soon.
How to Install Google Play Games for PC
Installing Google Play Games for PC is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the official website of Google Play Games for PC on your Windows computer.
- Click on the Download button.
- Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app. The installation might take a few minutes.
- If your computer doesn’t meet the minimum requirements, you will be notified, and the installation process will not proceed.
Setting Up Virtualization Settings
To enjoy mobile games on your PC, Windows virtualization settings must be activated. If Windows Hypervisor Platform is turned off, you will be prompted to turn it on during the installation process. Restart your computer for this setting to take effect.
Sign in to Your Account
To play games across different devices, make sure to sign in with the same Google account on your mobile device and your PC. Please note that only the first user who installed Google Play Games Beta on PC can open it and play games.
Troubleshooting Installation Errors
You might face certain errors while installing Google Play Games Beta on your PC. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can follow:
- Address any missing minimum requirements. The specific items will be noted during the installation process.
- Update your PC if needed. For more information about how to update your PC, contact the PC manufacturer.
- Turn on Windows Hypervisor Platform before installation or if prompted when you run Google Play Games Beta on PC.
- If you turned on HAXM when you installed the app, uninstall Google Play Games Beta on PC, then reinstall it. When prompted, be sure to turn on Windows Hypervisor Platform.
- Uninstall Google Play Games Beta on PC through Windows “Apps & features,” then reinstall it.
- Restart your computer.
Best Google Play Games for PC
Currently, Google Play Games for PC offers around 250 Android games. Here are a few popular picks you can start with:
- Kingdom Rush
- Hungry Shark Evolution
- Asphalt 9: Legends
- Fallout Shelter
- Alto’s Odyssey
- Badland
- Infinity Loop
- Cut the Rope 2
- Summoners War
- Looper!
- Grimvalor
Tips for a Better Gaming Experience
Google Play Games for PC provides Google Play Points, enabling you to earn points for purchases, including subscriptions and in-app purchases, just like on an Android device. You can redeem these points for vouchers and special game offers in the Play Store.
Once you start a game, you can press Shift and Tab to access the menu, where you can change the screen resolution, tweak the volume, and remap the game controls.
Currently, all the Android games available through Google Play Games for PC are free, although many of them have ads or in-app purchases.
Conclusion
Gaming is undoubtedly more enjoyable on a larger screen with superior controls. Google Play Games for PC brings this experience to your desktop, offering a modern, convenient, and immersive gaming environment. So, gear up and dive into the world of PC gaming with your favorite Android titles!