Chromebooks aren’t typically recognized for their gaming capabilities. Even high-end models designed for gaming, such as the Acer 516 GE, come with integrated graphics that often struggle with running most modern games.

However, while the game library on Chromebooks is smaller compared to that of top gaming laptops, there are still plenty of great games available. It’s all about knowing where to find them and maximizing the potential of your hardware.

How to play games on a Chromebook

Unlike Macs and PCs, Chromebooks come with fewer pre-installed apps. However, you can utilize two native apps—Google Chrome and the Google Play Store—to discover and play a wide variety of games.

Use Google Chrome to play cloud gaming apps

Most Chromebook apps are designed to run within the Chrome browser, making it the ideal platform for gaming as well.

Cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass, Nvidia GeForce Now, and Amazon Luna enable Chromebook users to play high-profile games with impressive graphics directly through their browser, regardless of hardware specifications. Nvidia GeForce Now even provides a downloadable cloud gaming app, which is a rare feature for Chromebooks.

In cloud gaming, the actual game runs on a powerful remote server, while you stream the video to your screen. All you need is a stable internet connection and a keyboard or controller to interact with the game.

This method is perfect for playing new and high-end titles on a Chromebook, including games like Fortnite, Valorant, Overwatch, Minecraft, and Forza Horizon 5, with many more being added regularly.

However, cloud gaming does have drawbacks. It relies on a fast and reliable internet connection to avoid issues like lag, stuttering, and visual glitches.

Additionally, cloud gaming services typically require a monthly subscription. Xbox Game Pass Cloud Gaming starts at $17 per month for the “Ultimate” plan, while Nvidia GeForce Now and Amazon Luna are available from $10 per month, with GeForce Now offering a free tier that limits playtime to one hour per session.

Use Google Chrome to play web browser games

Browser games are a great way to enjoy hours of entertainment on even the most modest computers. There are numerous sites offering free browser games, but three of the best are Itch.io, the Internet Archive, and Newgrounds.

Itch.io is an extensive online platform for indie games, boasting over 350,000 titles that you can play directly in your browser without needing any downloads. The Internet Archive provides access to a wide range of classic MS-DOS and arcade games through a built-in emulator, all playable in your browser. Newgrounds, known for its quick and entertaining flash games, also features short movies, podcasts, and visual art.

Use the Google Play Store to play Android apps

Most Chromebooks come with the Google Play Store pre-installed, allowing you to download and play nearly any Android app. This means you can run your favorite mobile games, such as Genshin Impact, Crossy Road, and Yu-Gi-Oh: Duel Links, right on your Chromebook.

The Play Store should be enabled by default on compatible Chromebooks. If it isn’t, you can activate it by going to the Settings menu and looking under the Apps or Google Play Store section. However, if your Google account is managed by an external administrator, like a workplace or educational institution, the Play Store might be disabled.

Keep in mind that not all Chromebook models support the Play Store. Check the support page to see if your Chromebook has “stable” Play Store compatibility.

Once you have access to the Play Store, most popular Android games can be played using just your mouse. However, some games require touch controls to function properly. Games that open in a window labeled “Phone” typically need a touchscreen. For the best Android gaming experience on a Chromebook, consider 2-in-1 models like the Acer Spin 714 or Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i.

New Chromebooks can also play Steam games

If you’re a PC gamer, you’re likely familiar with Steam, the leading platform for computer games. Previously, installing Steam on a Chromebook required a complex process involving Linux. However, newer Chromebooks allow you to install Steam directly, much like on a regular laptop.

To install the beta Steam app for Chromebooks, your device needs to meet these minimum specifications:

  • CPU: Intel i3 or better, AMD Ryzen 3 or better
  • RAM: 8GB or more
  • Storage: 128GB or more

If your Chromebook meets these specs, ensure it’s fully updated. Then, use the search feature on your device to locate the “Steam Installer” app. Select it, follow the setup instructions, and sign in.

While only a limited selection of Steam games is available for Chromebooks, you can find excellent titles like Katana ZERO, Hotline Miami, Ultrakill, and Counter-Strike 2. Generally, any game labeled as compatible with “SteamOS + Linux” should work on your Chromebook.

Keep in mind that you’re still constrained by your Chromebook’s hardware. Graphically demanding games might not perform well, and you may need to lower settings for other titles. If your Chromebook’s graphics capabilities are insufficient, the official Steam app won’t resolve this issue.

For Chromebooks that don’t meet the spec requirements, you’ll need to use a workaround to run Steam through Linux. Chromebooks made in 2019 or later come with Linux pre-installed; you just need to enable it. For older models, check if Linux is supported by referring to this list. If not, you’ll need to install it from the internet or a USB flash drive.

To enable Linux, open the Settings app on your Chromebook, click on Advanced, then locate the Linux development environment section and click Turn on. Follow the prompts to activate Linux.

Once enabled, you’ll have access to the Terminal app, where you can install new applications, including Steam.

In Conclusion

Compared to PCs or Macs, Chromebooks aren’t the best choice for gaming. They typically have less powerful graphics cards and lack the extensive app support found on other computers.

However, by leveraging Chrome OS’s strengths—such as its robust internet browser, Android app support, and Linux compatibility—you can still access a variety of games. Just keep in mind that the game library on a Chromebook won’t match the breadth available on high-end gaming laptops.