Google has finally launched its version of Apple Arcade with the ‘Play Pass’ subscription service for Android-powered devices. The service will be available in the US starting this week, and it’s expected to roll out in other countries ‘soon’.
Google Play Pass is similar to Apple Arcade, however, Google’s take on its app-based subscription model is slightly different than that of Apple. Google’s Play Pass Service includes apps as well as games, while Apple Aracde solely offers games with a library of 100 titles.
Google Play Pass service bundles 350 games and apps with no ads and without any in-app purchases for $4.99. Besides, Google will offer users a 10-day free trial period and also plans to give users the first year at an introductory price of $1.99 a month.
“The Play Pass collection spans hundreds of titles, from games that help you unwind to apps that power productivity,” said Google product manager Austin Shoemaker in a blog post.
Some of the game titles offered in the service at launch include long-time favorites such as Limbo, Monument Valley, Stardew Valley, and Risk. Other notable games include the likes of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Terraria, Old Man’s Journey, and Mini Metro. Nearly two-thirds of the apps included in the Play Pass service are games. Apart from games, the service also includes popular apps such as Accuweather which are served free of ads and without any in-app purchases.
Besides, Google also promised that it plans to add new games and apps to the service every month.
The launch of Play Pass comes as Google plans to make big headway in the gaming sector. The search engine giant plans to release Stadia in November. The upcoming streaming platform is designed to run games without a high-end PC or console. All you’ll need is a Chromecast and television which allows you to access high-resolution games via the cloud.
