Google debuts 2-month Stadia Pro free trial

Google announced that its Stadia Pro cloud gaming service will be available for free in 14 countries for the next two months. The idea is to give people relief while isolating themselves because of the pandemic. While gaming isn’t a cure for the coronavirus, folks are touting it as a way of social distancing, or preserving our sanity, during a time of great disruption.

“We’re facing some of the most challenging times in recent memory. Keeping social distance is vital, but staying home for long periods can be difficult and feel isolating,” said Stadia vice president Phil Harrison in a blog post. “Video games can be a valuable way to socialize with friends and family when you’re stuck at home, so we’re giving gamers in 14 countries free access to Stadia for two months. This is starting today and rolling out over the next 48 hours.”