Google Play launches Game Trials: test paid Android games before you buy!

Google is pulling out all the stops at GDC 2026! The Play Store will be welcoming "Game Trials", a function that lets youtry out premium gamesfor free for a limited time, coupled with a one-off purchase system. What games are involved? And how does it work? I'll tell you all about it!

Game Trials: The end of blind purchases on Android

A Game Trials trial button will be added to certain Play Store games. By clicking on it, you'll be able to try out the game for an hour .

After that, you'll be locked in and given the chance to buy the game, thanks to a new unified pricing system. In other words, buying will unlock the full version of the games on Android and PC, via Google Play Games.

The other good news? Progress during the free trial is saved. So you can continue your game after purchase.

Which games will be covered by Game Trials in the Google Play Store?

Game Trials will initially be rolled out to a limited number of games. We're talking about Reigns, OTTTD and Dungeon Clawler, but we imagine that the offer will be extended to other titles. You should soon see the 'Try' button appear on a wider range of games, from casual to AAA.

According to the official announcement, games such as Moonlight Peaks, 9Kings, Potion Craft and Low-Budget Repairs could be added to the catalogue.

Other new features in the Google Play Store

Game Trials is not the only new feature announced by Google at GDC 2026. Other new features include

• The Play Games Sidekick, an assistant powered by Gemini, Google's AI. It will offer you in-game advice generated by artificial intelligence. You'll also be able to take screenshots or stream your game.
  
  
  
  
• A new tab for Windows PC games: you'll be able to put games on a wishlist and be notified as soon as a special offer becomes available. The application will also let you chat with other gamers.

Inspired by other gaming platforms such as Steam or the Epic Game Stores, Google Play seems to have big plans for 2026. For the moment, Game Trials is not yet available (not in France, anyway). But this feature should arrive later this year.