How to get a Google Stadia refund for games and hardware

This is the downstream effect of gaming’s recent move away from physical media: Google is shutting down Stadia, its struggling game-streaming platform, in January 2023. In other words, if you’re a Stadia user, you practically can’t play them all Stadia games you own. But hey, at least you can get a refund!

It’s been a difficult three years for Stadia, which Google first launched in 2019 with a mixture of intrigue and skepticism. Stadia aims to revolutionize the way we play games and allow gamers to stream big video games without the need for a console or high-end PC. But an anemic library of games and a confusing pricing model limited its reach. As such, Stadia never took off like its competition: Microsoft’s Game Pass program or, more recently, Sony’s revamped PlayStation Plus membership, both of which include game streaming components.

In February 2021, Kotaku reported that Google would shut down its in-house game development studios, a sign some industry watchers called the beginning of the end. (The allegedly staggering fees Google paid to sell third-party games like Red Dead Redemption 2 on Stadia didn’t help his reputation. Neither did the procession of outgoing executives.) Amid a spate of rumors about Stadia’s imminent closure, Google emerged in July assured Fans, the service went nowhere.

Good.

Of course, such a significant step raises important questions like, “Can I get a refund for my Stadia games?” (yes) and “Can I ever trust a tech giant with a long track record to launch ambitious projects before I buy them again.” leave?” (Your call). Here’s everything you need to know about the process.

When will Stadia close?

Stadia will be shut down forever January 18, 2023wrote Google in a blog post explaining the transition period.

How do I get refunds?

Google is offering refunds for all Stadia purchases — whether video games, post-release extensions, or physical hardware — made through the Google Store. And if the credit or debit card you originally used is no longer active, Google will email you at a later date to coordinate your refunds.

Most hardware, like the Stadia controller – which is a pretty solid gamepad all things considered – that’s made directly through Google doesn’t need to be physically returned. However, stores in the Google Store cannot process such requests, nor can other retailers who have sold Stadia products, such as e.g. B. Best Buy. For now, just keep your physical Stadia technology.

It’s unclear if the refunds will be issued automatically. (“The offer” suggests players need to be proactive in order to receive refunds.) When reached for comment, Google Polygon officials redirected to Stadia CEO Phil Harrison’s blog post announcing the shutdown .

Does this apply to Stadia Pro subscriptions?

nope However, if you’re currently signed up, you can continue to enjoy the benefits – namely the “free” games – of an active subscription until the end of Stadia’s lifetime.

What happens to my Stadia save data?

If a Stadia game supports cross-progression – how destiny 2 – You can use the internal cross-save systems. If not, sorry, you are SOL.

Should I be buying microtransactions for Stadia games in the next few months?

Absolutely not.