Getting into the console business is hard and Google is getting a masterclass on it as we speak. Just goes to show that even with nearly unlimited funds and a connection with YouTube streaming, getting people to by in on your cloud console isn’t easy.
I was interested in Stadia only until Xbox announced Project xCloud that features more games and is more of a perk on top of your current Xbox One than its own dedicated thing. Let’s dive into what critics are saying about Google’s new console that let’s you purchase five-year old games at full price.
SlashGear – 8/10
There are doubts about Google’s steadfast devotion to services. We’ve spoken to many prospective users of Stadia that do not trust Google to support services that aren’t an immediate success
Chris Burns
Trusted Reviews – 3.5/5
Google Stadia’s cloud-streaming service shows a lot of promise, and could be a great option for those who want to game without spending a fortune on a console.
Ryan Jones
Den of Geek – 3.5/5
It’s really difficult to recommend the platform in 2019.
John Saavedra
Digital Trends – 2.5/5
Google Stadia has immense potential, but a confusing interface and small library sells it short.
Matthew S. Smith
PC World – 2.5/5
Whether or not Google turns Stadia into a long-term success, it’s hard not to feel they botched the launch.
Hayden Dingman
Game Informer – 6/10
Next year, when Google launches the free version of the Stadia service, the platform might find that audience.
Ben Reeves
The Verge – 5/10
There’s no reason anyone should buy into Stadia right now. Google has made sure of that, partly by underdelivering at launch and partly with a pricing scheme that sees you paying three times (for hardware, for the service, for games) just to be an early adopter.
Sean Hollister
Venture Beat – (no score)
Right now, Google Stadia is a platform for nobody. The company just doesn’t seem to understand any of the audiences it is trying to reach.
Jeff Grubb
PC Gamer – (no score)
Google’s proven Stadia’s tech really can work—but it’s also proven that without its many missing features, it’s rarely going to be the best way to play any of the games on its service.
Joanna Nelius
No Stadia review from us anytime soon. We can only afford so many streaming services a month.