Google Play Store prepares a try-before-purchase option for paid games

The official store of Google Play Store is preparing a feature that will allow the user try a paid game for a limited time before definitively purchasing it.

Google Play Store allows developers to offer free trials of subscriptions with demo versions with which the user can access a series of limited game options.

However, the demos present several disadvantages. For one thing, they don’t count as a download of the game itself, so the game download data doesn’t match reality.

You also cannot save game progress after playing the demo, which means the user has to replay that part when purchasing the full game. On the other hand, it does not benefit the developer either, who has to prepare two versions: the demo and the final one.

Faced with these problems, many developers encourage players to take advantage of the two-hour refund policy from the Google Play Store. Thanks to it, users have a margin to play the final version of a game, even if they have to request a refund later.

In the update Google Play Store v49.6.19-29Android Authority has spotted code that suggests Google could allow developers the option to offer their full games for a limited time through the new ‘feature’Try before you buy.’

Thus, users could try the full game without worrying about a refund later or having to play a limited version like the demos. The duration of the free trial is not defined, but can be set by each developer.

The new test begins when the game is opened and the saved progress would not be lost if the user finally decides to pay for it, without having to restart it.

Android Authority has clarified that this new feature is focused on games, but does not rule out that other paid applications can benefit from it.