Google Introducing More Real-Money Games to Play Store

Google has unveiled plans to expand its support for real-money games (RMG) on the Play Store. With this, the tech behemoth plans to allow additional varieties of games in this category while adhering to local laws. The program is scheduled to launch in India, Brazil, and Mexico in June, with further plans to extend its reach to other countries.

In addition to this, Google is pondering a modified service fee model for app subscriptions and in-app purchases. Though they have not disclosed specifics regarding the percentage they would be taking from developers, they have expressed their intention to remodel their service fee structure in order to better suit the unique economical dynamics of the gaming industry. They assure they are maintaining close relations with developers to ensure the newly adapted model is reflective of this industry's unique earning models.

Historically, Google has permitted the presence of real-money gaming applications that comply with local rules and regulations. In a shift of policy, they now plan to allow additional categories of real-money gaming applications that are lawful but not governed by explicit regulations.

The company began the integration of real-money gaming applications in 2021 and by 2022, initiated a pilot in India, enabling the availability of fantasy sports and Rummy apps on its local Play Store. Extensions were granted to already approved apps up until January 15. Now, following this latest announcement, the pilot apps will have a grace period that extends till June 30.

Google assures that they will release detailed policies for these changes in the coming months. These regulations will include some level of age restrictions and geographical limitations. Moreover, the company has acknowledged that the new service fee associated with real-money games will play a substantial role in generating revenue for the Google Play Store.