Google launches new tools for Android game developers

Google announced today that it has created new tools and features that’ll make it easier for Android mobile developers to make games on the platform.

The new Google Play game services will help developers leverage both mobile and cloud features to deliver better experiences for consumers.

“Today, we’re adding more tools to your gaming toolbox, like the open sourcing of a 2D physics library, as well as new features to the Google Play game services offering, like a plug-in for Unity,” the company said in a post.

The company said that games aren’t just for hardcore fans anymore. It said that three out of four people with an Android phone or tablet play them.

The tools include the Box2D-based LiquidFun, which features particle-based simulations that developers can use to create beautiful interactive experiences, like a body falling into a viscous fluid in a realistic-looking manner. Any platform that has a C++ compiler can benefit from LiquidFun.

Google also created a Google Play games plug-in for the popular Unity engine. Now developers can more easily integrate the services. This initial version of the plug-in supports sign-in, achievements, leaderboards, and cloud save on Android and iOS. You can download the plug-in from the Play Games GitHub page.

Finally,the Google Play store will offer some new categories for games starting in February, including simulation, role-playing, and educational.