Razer continues to prove that it is serious about Android gaming. After recently confirming its acquisition of Ouya's assets, Razer is now offering its Android gaming controller, the Razer Servel, through the Google Play Store.
Though Razer bought what was left of Ouya, it didn't purchase the company's now deceased hardware business. That included a marginally successful Android gaming console and an even less popular controller. Razer has its own Android gamepad and games console, the Forge TV.
The Serval is now available via the Google Play store for $80 and it appears its chances for success are greater than that of the Ouya gamepad.
In addition to being compatible with third-party Android consoles, specifically those running Android 4.2 or later, Razer's gamepad also supports smartphones, so users can continue their Android gaming with the controller, even after they are relieved of control of the living room by a parent or significant other.
"As you're gaming on your Android console, the game clip lets you use your mobile phone as a second screen where you can watch Twitch, stream your own content, or even access extra apps and controls, all without having to take your hands off your controller," says Razer of the gamepad.
Earlier this week, Razer purchased the software side of Ouya to bolster its own Android gaming ambitions. The deal included Ouya's app store, which will be rebranded "Cortex," along with the rights to use the company's name.
While Kickstarter darling Ouya offered a ton of promise, enough to attract about $15 million from Silicon Valley, the company's Android console just never held its footing. Razer will take a different approach with its Android gaming strategy, part of which includes publishing games to more third-party consoles and opening up its catalog to the Google Play Store, according to Razer cofounder and CEO Min-Liang Tan.
"Ouya's work with game developers, both triple A and indies, went a long way in bringing Android games to the living room and Razer intends to further that work," says Tan. "This acquisition is envisaged to usher more developers and content to the Android TV platform."
