Google is launching a new program to reward game developers for creating higher-quality, more player-friendly experiences on Android. This "Level Up" initiative aims to clean up the Play Store by promoting games that offer features like cloud saves, cross-device play, and meaningful achievements.
So, what's Google doing for Play Store games?
If you've ever felt like the Google Play Store is a bit of a wild west for games, you're not alone. To fix this, Google just announced the "Google Play Games Level Up" program. In simple terms, it's a new system designed to incentivize developers to build better games by offering them powerful promotional tools and better visibility in the store.
To get these perks, developers need to meet a few core user experience guidelines. Essentially, Google wants games to be more modern and respectful of your time and investment. Here's a breakdown of what they're pushing for:
The Level Up Guidelines
'You tab'. | Image credit — Google
Player Continuity: This is all about being able to pick up your game on any device without losing a single second of progress. Think seamless cloud saves and easy sign-ins, so you can switch from your phone to your tablet or PC and just keep playing.
Rewarding Player Journeys: Google wants developers to create meaningful achievements that go beyond simple "level up" notifications. This means rewarding players for everything from major progression milestones to discovering hidden secrets, making the entire gameplay experience feel more engaging.
Cross-Device Gameplay: This guideline encourages developers to give players the freedom to play how they want. That means adding proper support for controllers, keyboards, and mice, and making their games available on Google Play Games for PC, so you aren't just stuck tapping on a screen.
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Why this is a much-needed move for Android gaming
'You tab'. | Image credit — Google
For years, Apple's App Store has been seen as the more curated, premium space for mobile gaming, partly thanks to its stricter guidelines and the Apple Arcade subscription service. The Play Store, on the other hand, has often struggled with a reputation for being flooded with low-effort, ad-heavy titles, making it tough for quality games to stand out.
This Level Up program feels like Google's answer to that problem, but with a distinctly "Google" approach. Instead of building a high wall like Apple, Google is offering a carrot. It's not forcing developers to do anything, but it's making the rewards for creating a great, modern gaming experience too good to ignore. For players, this could mean it'll be far easier to find games that respect your time and progression, no matter if you're playing on your phone, tablet, or PC.
Do you think Google’s plan will make the Play Store more attractive to gamers?
Yes
72.73%
No
27.27%
A smart, if slow, step forward
Honestly, this is a fantastic idea and something the Play Store has desperately needed. Rewarding developers for implementing features that should be standard in 2025—like cloud saves and controller support—is a smart way to elevate the entire ecosystem. It encourages better game design without Google having to play gatekeeper.
My only real reservation is the timeline. The first major deadline isn't until July 2026, which feels like an eternity from now. While it's good that developers have time to adapt, it means we won't see the full impact of this program for quite a while. Still, it's a definitive step in the right direction. I'm hopeful this will genuinely help surface some hidden gems and push the overall quality of Android gaming up a few notches.
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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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