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How to Publish a Godot Game on Google Play

Export a Godot 4 game as an Android App Bundle: Android build template, Gradle build, AAB format, arm64, keystores and the 12-tester closed test.

Updated 3 min readBy the TestersZone team

Short answer

In Godot 4, install the export templates and the Android build template (Project → Install Android Build Template), enable Use Gradle Build in your Android export preset, set Export Format to AAB, include arm64-v8a, add your release keystore, and export. Upload the .aab to a closed track.

1. One-time setup

  • Install Godot’s export templates matching your editor version.
  • Install the Android SDK (via Android Studio) and a JDK, then set their paths in Editor Settings → Export → Android.
  • Project → Install Android Build Template. This adds an android/ folder Godot uses for Gradle builds.

2. Android export preset

In Project → Export → Add… → Android:

  • Gradle Build → Use Gradle Build: on. AAB export requires it.
  • Gradle Build → Export Format: AAB.
  • Architectures: include arm64-v8a (Google Play needs 64-bit for native code). Keep armeabi-v7a if you want older devices.
  • Package → Unique Name: your permanent application ID.
  • Version → Code (increase every upload) and Name.
  • Target SDK: make sure the build targets API 36 or later (required since August 31, 2026). Newer Godot releases update the default. Check your version’s docs.

3. Keystore

Create a release keystore with keytool and set Keystore → Release, user and password in the preset. Keep it backed up. It’s your upload key with Play App Signing.

4. Export

Click Export Project, uncheck “Export With Debug”, and save as .aab.

5. Godot-specific gotchas

ProblemFix
“Gradle build required for AAB”Enable Use Gradle Build and install the build template
Black screen on some phonesTry the Compatibility renderer for mobile, and test on real devices
Permissions you don’t useUntick them in the preset. Every permission affects your Data safety form
Large APKUse .import settings and texture compression for mobile

Game testers need different tasks from app testers. See closed testing for games.

After the bundle is built: same path for every app

  1. Create the app in Play Console and complete the store listing and App content. See does a closed test need a store listing.
  2. Upload the .aab to a closed testing track (internal first is optional). See upload your first AAB.
  3. Attach a tester list and publish. Share the opt-in link.
  4. On a new personal account: keep 12+ testers opted in for 14 days, then apply for production access.

Frequently asked questions

Can Godot 3 export App Bundles?

Later Godot 3 releases added AAB export with a custom build. Godot 4 is the better-supported path today, so check the docs for your exact version.

Which renderer should I use for Android?

The Compatibility renderer works on the widest range of phones. Mobile can look better on newer devices. Test both on a low-end phone.

Where do I set the app icon?

In the Android export preset there are launcher icon fields, including adaptive icon foreground and background images.

Sources and how we keep this accurate

Policy facts are checked against Google's own documentation on the date shown above. Google can change requirements at any time, so confirm in your Play Console. Where we give advice or estimates rather than Google's rules, we say so. TestersZone is independent and not affiliated with Google. Drafts are AI-assisted and reviewed by our team.

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