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About half a year after its initial launch, Google Stadia finally has a free option for people who want to see what the company’s cloud gaming service is all about.
For a limited time, you can get two months of Google Stadia Pro for free. Normally $ 10 a month, Stadia Pro provides access to a growing library of titles that includes Destiny 2, Grid, and Thumper, and allows you to stream games in up to 4K resolution. If you are already paying for Stadia Pro, you will not be charged for the next two months of service.
Once you’ve signed up for Stadia, you can also purchase additional titles, such as Doom Eternal, Mortal Kombat 11, and Red Dead Redemption 2. Google plans to eventually launch a free Stadia Base option with a 1080p streaming limit, but there is no t still a release date for it.
The free trial version of Google Stadia was announced in a Blog post by Stadia Vice President and General Manager Phil Harrison, who notes that the trial is being launched to help connect and entertain the growing number of people who are currently trapped in their homes due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“We are facing some of the most difficult times in recent memory,” wrote Harrison. “Maintaining social distance is vital, but staying home for long periods can be difficult and feel isolated. Video games can be a valuable way to socialize with friends and family when you’re stuck at home.”
Harrison also notes that Google is working on temporary non-compliance with the default resolution for Stadia games from 4K to 1080p, due to the large increase in people who play at home and use Internet bandwidth.
How to get Google Stadia free
To start your free trial, go to the Google Stadia website to sign up through your Google account. You will be charged if you maintain your subscription beyond the two-month period, but you can cancel your subscription at any time before that date. Harrison noted that the free trial version will roll out “over the next 48 hours” starting April 8, so keep checking if you don’t see an option to test the service right away.
You can currently play Stadia on any PC, Mac, or tablet that supports Google Chrome, and the service supports popular USB controllers, including DualShock 4 and Xbox Wireless Controller, as well as keyboard and mouse. When it comes to mobile devices, Stadia currently supports Pixel 2 and later, Samsung Galaxy S8 and later, and all versions of Asus ROG and Razer phones.
Is Google Stadia worth it?
In our review of Google Stadia, we were impressed by Stadia’s overall consistent streaming performance and compatibility with a variety of different displays. However, we found that the service’s launch line is a bit sparse, and it still lacks important features like iOS compatibility. It doesn’t help that access to Stadia was previously restricted to those who purchased the $ 129 Premium Edition, which includes a Chromecast Ultra, a Stadia controller, and three months of Stadia Pro.
Fortunately, the Stadia Pro line of games has grown since its launch with titles like Grid and Steamworld Dig, and top AAA games like Doom Eternal are now available on the service. And now that it’s free for two months, there’s no reason not to give it a try.
