Buzz
Google Chrome users in the U.S. can now launch select games directly from Google Search results, similar to how you can already do with movies, music, and TV shows.
Games run in your browser through cloud streaming services like GeForce Now or Microsoft Cloud Streaming, allowing you to play on any device running Google Chrome. Even less powerful devices can handle gaming this way—typically in 1080p at 60fps with minimal input lag—provided you have a solid and reliable internet connection.
Hold on, isn’t this the same as Google Stadia?
If you're thinking, 'Didn't Chrome already support this?' you're right. Google’s Stadia cloud streaming service also enabled gaming via Chrome or the Stadia app on phones and smart TVs. However, Stadia is set to be discontinued in January 2023. This new feature, while similar, is separate from Stadia, although it likely shares the same core technology.
Replies to Google's announcement tweet reveal confusion, with many users expressing frustration over the timing of the new Chrome feature launching just weeks before Stadia’s shutdown.
It's essential to remember that Stadia is shutting down because of poor financial results and a lack of user interest, not due to technological failure. In fact, Stadia worked quite well, despite its flawed monetization strategy. Many other streaming services function in web browsers, so the new feature is hardly surprising.
Google actually hinted at the ability to launch games through Google search months before Stadia's closure announcement, and it's safe to assume Stadia would have been included in the list of supported cloud platforms if it weren't being discontinued.
Google also mentioned plans to utilize Stadia’s streaming technology for other platforms like YouTube, Google Play, and Google AR after Stadia’s shutdown. Additionally, the company plans to share the technology with other businesses, so it's likely we’ll see more Stadia-like features integrated into other Google products soon.
How to play games using Google Chrome
Launch Chrome and search for the game you want to play.
If the game is available, the info panel will show streaming services offering it. Click “Play” beside your preferred platform to start the game.
If you're logged in to the streaming service you selected, the game will load immediately. Otherwise, you’ll need to sign up and log in first.
Some games may require a gamepad or a keyboard and mouse, so be sure to have a Bluetooth controller ready if you’re playing on mobile.
