What was the name of Google's cloud gaming service?

Google’s cloud gaming service was called Google Stadia.

Stadia streamed games from Google’s data centers to players over the internet, reducing the need for a powerful gaming PC or console. Players could access it through Chrome browsers, Chromecast Ultra, supported Android devices, ChromeOS hardware, and the Stadia mobile app. A dedicated Stadia controller was also available.

The service began as Project Stream, which Google tested in a closed beta in October 2018. Stadia launched publicly on November 19, 2019, with the promise that Google’s global data-center network could make game streaming responsive and widely accessible. It competed with services such as Nvidia GeForce Now, PlayStation’s cloud streaming, and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Stadia received praise for its technology but faced criticism over its limited game library and delayed features. Google closed its internal game studios in 2021 and announced Stadia’s shutdown in 2022. The service permanently went offline on January 18, 2023, but Google refunded eligible hardware and game purchases.