Google has announced that, starting today and rolling out over the next 48 hours, Stadia is now free to use in all 14 countries where the games streaming service is supported, so long as users have a Gmail account.
New users can sign up at Stadia’s website with their Gmail account, with access at the free tier allowing players to purchase games and stream them with up to 1080p/60 fps with stereo surround sound. Players who sign up today during this new free rollout, however, will also receive two free months to Stadia’s Pro subscription tier level, with the option to either continue a $9.99/month subscription or opt out afterward. And anyone already subscribed to Stadia Pro will simply not be charged for the next two months of the service.
Google’s Phil Harrison says the decision to give two months of Stadia Pro away for free comes in response to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. “We’re facing some of the most challenging times in recent memory. Keeping social distance is vital, but staying home for long periods can be difficult and feel isolating. Video games can be a valuable way to socialize with friends and family when you’re stuck at home,” he wrote on the company’s Keyword blog.
Google’s new introductory offer is likely to make at least some people forget about Stadia’s sometimes disappointing launch. While not exactly a flop, Stadia didn’t launch with all the features Google promised when it detailed the service at GDC 2019. Fans have had to wait to do things like play their game library at 4K over the web, which had led to community dissent.
