Google Plans to Integrate Play Games Features into Play Store, Ending Standalone App

Google is reportedly planning to discontinue the standalone Google Play Games app for Android, moving its core features—such as achievement tracking, gamer profiles, and social interaction tools—directly into the main Google Play Store. This transition is supported by code analysis and recent updates to the Play Store, which now allows users to access several Play Games functionalities without a separate app. The move aligns with Google's broader strategy of consolidating services and phasing out secondary apps as user needs evolve. While Google has not officially confirmed a shutdown timeline, the Play Games app is expected to be retired only after all major features are integrated into the Play Store. Importantly, this change does not affect the Google Play Games for PC service, which remains available and separate. Overall, the consolidation aims to streamline the user experience and reflects shifting trends in how gamers interact with mobile platforms.