Chromebooks have advanced far from being merely computers for perusing the internet. Originally designed as portable computers for online work and study, these devices have evolved into sophisticated devices that can run Linux software, Android apps, and even cloud-based games. If you have a Chromebook, you may already be aware of its many uses. The good news is that you can use a Chromebook to download and play games.
You read that correctly. Chromebooks should no longer be considered “just for school or work.” Additionally, they can be your affordable gaming partners. Chromebooks provide a wide range of options, whether your preference is for casual mobile games, well-known PC games, or offline games that you may play when the Wi-Fi is unavailable.
In this blog, let’s explore the best games to download on Chromebook in 2025, how to install them, and the different ways you can enjoy gaming on these devices. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions Chromebook users ask about gaming.
Why Play Games on a Chromebook?
Let’s clear the air before we get into the list of games. To be fair, Chromebooks aren’t made for intense gaming, and many people believe they aren’t as powerful as gaming laptops or consoles. But they excel in areas such as:
- Android applications through the Google Play Store Because the majority of Chromebooks support the Play Store, you can download Android games in the same way that you would on a smartphone.
- Platforms for cloud gaming AAA games can be played on Chromebooks without the need for powerful hardware thanks to services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna.
- Linux support – Advanced users can install Linux and run PC-style games, including indie titles from platforms like Steam.
- Portability and affordability – Chromebooks are lighter and often cheaper than gaming laptops, making them a great casual gaming option.
So, if you’re looking for games to relax with, kill time, or even dive into competitive multiplayer, you’re in luck.
Best Games to Download on Chromebook
This is a carefully curated list of games that are ideal for Chromebooks in 2025. I’ll divide them into the following categories to keep things simple:
Casual Android Games (From Google Play Store)
- Among Us
Play as an imposter or crewmate in this social deduction game. It’s easy to use on Chromebooks, lightweight, and ideal for playing multiplayer games. - Minecraft: Pocket Edition
The Play Store offers Minecraft, one of the most played games in the world. It is up to you whether you choose to build, craft, explore, or survive. - Asphalt 9: Legends
Asphalt 9 offers arcade-style racing with breathtaking graphics if you enjoy racing games. works flawlessly on Chromebooks that enable touchscreens. - Stardew Valley
You can design your ideal farm, fish, cultivate crops, and make friends in this peaceful farming simulator. Ideal for light-hearted but captivating gameplay. - Clash of Clans
Fans of Clash of Clans strategy won’t be disappointed. From your Chromebook, you can create villages, train armies, and engage in combat with players all over the world.
Action & Adventure Games
- Call of Duty: Mobile
This popular first-person shooter works well on many Chromebooks. Team deathmatch, battle royale, or sniper duels—it’s all there. - PUBG Mobile / Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI)
If you like survival shooters, PUBG Mobile or its regional versions (like BGMI in India) deliver a thrilling battle royale experience. - Genshin Impact
An open-world RPG that combines anime-style visuals with exciting combat. It’s heavier, but newer Chromebooks can handle it. - Roblox
Not just a game, but a platform where you can create and play thousands of games made by others. Great for creativity and fun.
Puzzle & Brain Games
- Saga of Candy Crush
The timeless match-three puzzle game is always in style. Excellent for short breaks. - The second Monument Valley
An exquisitely crafted puzzle game with captivating graphics and soothing gameplay. - Sudoku.com
Sudoku apps work perfectly on Chromebooks if you enjoy brainteasers.
Cloud Gaming Options (No Downloads Needed, But Worth Mentioning)
Cloud gaming is revolutionary for Chromebook users with a reliable internet connection. The games run on distant servers and stream to your device, so you don’t need expensive hardware. Well-liked services consist of:
- Play Fortnite, Apex Legends, Cyberpunk 2077, and other games with NVIDIA GeForce NOW.
- Play Xbox Game Pass Ultimate games right in your browser with Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta).
- Amazon Luna: An expanding collection of games in various genres.
In this manner, you may use a Chromebook to play expensive games like Halo, Destiny 2, or Assassin’s Creed.
Linux/Steam Games
For tech-savvy users who enable Linux mode on their Chromebook, Steam opens up another universe of games. Lightweight indie titles work best here, such as:
- Celeste
- Hollow Knight
- Undertale
- Terraria
These aren’t as plug-and-play as Android apps but are worth it if you’re into PC-style gaming.
How to Download Games on Chromebook
There are three main ways:
- Via Google Play Store
- Open Play Store → Search your favorite game → Click Install.
- Works just like your Android phone.
- Through Cloud Gaming Services
- Visit the platform (e.g., GeForce NOW) → Sign in → Stream games.
- No storage issues, but requires fast internet.
- Using Linux & Steam
- Enable Linux in Chromebook settings → Install Steam → Download games.
- Best for more advanced users.
Pros and Cons of Gaming on Chromebook
Pros
- Affordable compared to gaming PCs
- Access to Android, cloud, and Linux games
- Portable and lightweight
- Good battery life
Cons
- Not all high-end games run natively
- Limited offline AAA options
- Performance depends on model specs
FAQs: Games to Download on Chromebook
- Can I use a Chromebook to play Fortnite?
Indeed! Even though Fortnite isn’t accessible in the Play Store, you can still play it using NVIDIA GeForce NOW or, if compatible, by sideloading the Android version. - Do Chromebooks work with all Android games?
The most well-liked ones are optimized, but not all. Always look at the Play Store listing to see if your device is compatible. - Does using a Chromebook for gaming require good specifications?
Even low-cost Chromebooks can be used for casual Android gaming. All you need for cloud gaming is a reliable internet connection. Mid-to high-end Chromebooks are better for Linux/Steam. - Can my Chromebook be connected to a controller?
Indeed, the majority of Chromebooks are compatible with Bluetooth controllers, such as those for Xboxes or PlayStations, which improve gaming. - Are there offline games for Chromebook?
Definitely. Games like Minecraft, Stardew Valley, Monument Valley, and Sudoku can be played without the internet once downloaded. - Is Roblox free to play on Chromebook?
Yes, Roblox is free to download and play, though it offers in-game purchases. - Can Chromebooks handle heavy games like Genshin Impact?
Some newer Chromebooks with better RAM and processors can. Otherwise, cloud gaming is the best option for heavier titles. - What’s the best racing game for Chromebook?
Asphalt 9 is a fan favorite, but you can also try Real Racing 3 for a more realistic feel. - Do Chromebooks overheat while gaming?
Not usually. Since most games run in lightweight environments or the cloud, Chromebooks stay relatively cool compared to gaming laptops. - Is it worth buying a Chromebook just for gaming?
If your main goal is heavy PC or console gaming, probably not. But if you want a device for school, work, and casual gaming, a Chromebook is a fantastic budget-friendly choice.
Final Thoughts
Chromebooks have shown themselves to be surprisingly capable gaming devices in 2025, albeit they may not be able to completely replace expensive gaming PCs or consoles. The world of Chromebook gaming is expanding more than ever because to the availability of Android apps, cloud computing platforms, and even Linux-based games. There is something for everyone, regardless of your preferences for racing, puzzles, shooters, or soothing agricultural simulators.
Therefore, if your Chromebook has been underutilized, now is the time to download and play some games. Who knows, maybe the gadget you assumed was exclusively for work and study turns out to be your new favorite hobby.
