Google plans to shut down its Stadia cloud gaming service in January, more than three years after its launch, citing a lack of customer demand.
The traditional gaming service “didn’t get the traction and users we expected.”
Google plans to refund customers “all Stadia hardware purchases made through the Google Store, as well as game and add-on content purchases made through the Stadia store,” Harrison said. Google launched Stadia in 2019, making it one of the many tech giants investing in the gaming market. Described by some at the time as the Netflix of video games, Stadia allows users to stream and play games from smartphones, web browsers and other devices using the Chromecast streaming device from Google. It provided a controllable experience without the heavy hardware.
But there are early signs that Stadia is struggling. Google said in 2021 that it will stop making video games for its Stadia platform. Some other tech companies may also be rethinking their game plan. Facebook announced last month that it will shut down its standalone gaming app this fall.
The move also comes as Google and other tech companies rethink hiring and investment amid a slowing market and fears of a looming global recession. Despite the shutdown, Harrison said Google is still “hard at work in the game.” Google plans to use some of the technology behind Stadia for other products.
Players will continue to have access to their Stadia game library and will be able to play until January 1. 18, 2023,” so that they can complete the final season.
