Good news for those who enjoy mobile gaming, as Google seems to be testing a service calledPlay Pass that would offer unlimited access to “hundreds of premium applications and games”. Google is thus facing Apple Arcadepresenting its new on-demand video game service for Android mobiles practically at the same timefor 4.99 euros per monthYes, no ads or in-app purchases.
The Play Pass appears to be in the final stages of testing and would include standout premium titles, such as Stardew Valley (an indie farm simulation video game), which is a hit on every platform it lands on. Such a subscription service may be the perfect option for those who enjoy mobile games, as it provides access to a wide variety of applications that could not be tested otherwise. As we have seen with similar models on other platforms,There are also benefits for developers to join such a service.
Microsoft recently launched a subscription service for PC games calledXbox Game Passfor PC (offering unlimited access to over 100 PC and console games). Users are offered something similar to what Google is working on with their Play Pass, giving players access to a wide range of high-quality games without the need to buy anything.
This allows budget-minded gamers to try games they might not otherwise see, and perhaps discover a game that appeals to them more than another. This in turn can lead to more sales for a developer and, at the very least, give them a level of free advertising that would not otherwise exist. In fact, the best example of this is Mike Rose, the creator ofDescendersfor PC, whichhas seen a massive increase in the number of people playing and buying its game thanks to exposure on the Xbox Game Pass.
When?
Although there is currently no formal launch date for Google Play Pass, it seems to be in the final stages of testing, as the company itself has exposed on its official Twitter account. If the product resembles what Microsoft has made, we may be looking to the future of how consumers access mobile games.
Overall, Google Play Pass seems like a fantastic service, at least in principle. For now, of course, it is unknown if there will be different subscription options or some type of group or family plan to access a more affordable price with other users.
If the service finally offers access to a vast library of the best mobile games, all free of ads and in-game purchases, it would be a step in the right direction for mobile game consumers.
There are so many games full of intrusive ads, or simply wanting to collect our personal information to sell to a third party, that an affordable subscription service that eliminates all the negatives would be more than welcome by players.
For now, all we can do is wait until Google formally announces and launches the service. The company will be holding an event in October to announce new hardware and services, so it would be a good time for the Google Play Pass to make its official appearance.
