This fall, iOS/macOS/Apple TV users will get the option to subscribe to Apple Arcade and unlock access to over 100 games, some exclusive, to play each month. Google isn't standing idly by, though, and its Android alternative looks set to be called Play Pass.
As Android Police reports, Google has confirmed it's starting to test an app and games subscription service for Android called Play Pass. Users lucky enough to be taking part in the test are sharing screenshots confirming the name, but also the price, which has been set at $4.99 a month.
In return for you cash, Google is promising you'll never be asked to purchase any apps outright, all in-app purchases will be unlocked automatically, and that no ads will be shown. That trio of features is sure to attract a lot of Android gamers and convince them to part with $5 every month.
As to what Play Pass will offer in terms of an app/games selection, the information page included with the test version states, "Explore a curated catalog spanning puzzle games to premium music apps and everything in between. From action hits to puzzles and fitness trackers, with Google Play Pass you unlock access to hundreds of premium apps and games without ads, download fees or in-app purchases."
So while we don't know which apps and games will feature specifically, if this is going to work then they need to change regularly and offer a good mix of game genres. Consistently offering well-known and popular games is also a must.
We don't know when Play Pass will launch, but with Apple Arcade arriving this fall, I'd expect Google to try and beat Apple and launch earlier.