2019-2023

In 2019, Google entered the gaming arena with a bold promise: the end of the console. The Stadia was designed to let users stream high-end video games directly to their browsers, phones, or TVs. No need for a $500 console. With Google’s massive data centers powering it, the streaming technology worked as promised.

But the business model did not. Instead of a Netflix-style subscription where you pay one monthly fee for a library of games, Google charged monthly fee PLUS the full retail price ($60) for individual games. Games that could only be played on Stadia.

This stupid pricing model, a lack of exciting games, and a confusing marketing campaign meant Stadia never found an audience. In early 2023, Google pulled the plug, issuing full refunds to every customer who had bought hardware or games. Stadia now sits in the digital graveyard and here at the Museum of Failure.