Google’s gaming push continues with a Game Center-style matchmaking service for its Android platform. The service, dubbed in typical Google fashion Google Play Games, will provide achievements and matchmaking capabilities to Android gamers.
The service was leaked via Android Police’s teardown of the Google Play APK, which revealed strings for the new service indicating the new functionality, which also includes save game syncing. The company’s recent gaming forays first came to light with Niantic Labs and their AR effort Ingress, followed by hiring game industry veteran Noah Falstein as Chief Game Designer for an unannounced project.
Features of Google Play Games
Google Play Games is set to revolutionize the way Android users experience mobile gaming. The service will offer a variety of features aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. One of the most notable features is the achievement system, which allows players to unlock rewards and track their progress across different games. This system not only adds a layer of excitement but also encourages players to explore games more thoroughly.
Another significant feature is matchmaking, which will enable players to find and compete against others with similar skill levels. This is particularly beneficial for multiplayer games, where balanced competition is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Additionally, the service will support leaderboards, allowing players to see how they stack up against others globally or among their friends.
Save Game Syncing and Cloud Integration
One of the standout features of Google Play Games is save game syncing. This functionality allows players to save their game progress to the cloud, ensuring that they can pick up where they left off, regardless of the device they are using. This is a game-changer for those who switch between multiple devices or upgrade to a new phone, as it eliminates the frustration of losing game progress.
The cloud integration also opens up possibilities for more complex and expansive games on the Android platform. Developers can create richer, more immersive experiences without worrying about the limitations of local storage. This could lead to a new wave of high-quality games that take full advantage of the cloud’s capabilities.
Google’s Broader Gaming Strategy
Google’s push into the gaming industry is not limited to Google Play Games. The company’s interest in gaming has been evident for some time, starting with Niantic Labs and their augmented reality game, Ingress. Ingress was a groundbreaking project that demonstrated the potential of AR in gaming, paving the way for future innovations.
In addition to Ingress, Google has made strategic hires to bolster its gaming expertise. The appointment of Noah Falstein, a veteran in the game industry, as Chief Game Designer, signals Google’s commitment to developing high-quality gaming experiences. Although the specifics of Falstein’s project remain under wraps, his involvement suggests that Google has ambitious plans for the future of gaming.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The introduction of Google Play Games is likely to have a significant impact on the mobile gaming industry. By providing a unified platform for achievements, matchmaking, and save game syncing, Google is setting a new standard for mobile gaming services. This could pressure other platforms, such as Apple’s Game Center, to enhance their offerings to remain competitive.
Moreover, the cloud-based features of Google Play Games could encourage more developers to create games for the Android platform. The ability to sync game progress across devices and the potential for more complex games could attract both indie developers and established studios. This influx of new games would benefit Android users by providing a wider variety of high-quality gaming options.
In conclusion, Google Play Games represents a significant step forward for mobile gaming on the Android platform. With features like achievements, matchmaking, and save game syncing, the service promises to enhance the gaming experience for users. Combined with Google’s broader gaming strategy, including AR projects and strategic hires, it is clear that Google is serious about making its mark in the gaming industry.
Source Android Police
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