Google has confirmed its new gaming API called Google Play Game Services (very imaginative name). The services combine four features – Cloud Save, Achievements, Leaderboards and Multiplayer support.
Cloud Save will let developers sync gameplay cross multiple devices, meaning that you will never lose progress when moving between devices. Achievements and Leaderboards are self-explanatory, with Leaderboards using Google+ circles being used to track high scores among friends and players worldwide. The multiplayer API will make it easier for developers to add competitive or cooperative game play, and uses Google+ Circles to make the connection between 4 friends or auto-matched players.
Several games are already adding the API to their games including Kingdom Rush and Osmos. The services are available for Android, iOS and for the web.