This year Google launches its Google Play awards, a new annual program whereby Google will "recognize our incredible developer community" by nominating 50 games and apps for 10 awards like Standout Indie and Best Game.

For game makers, this is an opportunity to have your Android games prominently displayed on Google Play, as all 50 nominees (selected by Google staff) are part of a highlighted showcase on the storefront.

It's well in line with Google's ongoing efforts to delineate notable games and apps on the increasingly-crowded Google Play, which include a new indie game showcase. This also brings Google more in line with Apple, which has been handing out awards to mobile games on its storefront for years.

Google will announce the winners of its first annual Google Play awards at its Google I/O developer event next month (May 19th), though it's yet unclear what (if any) additional prizes or recognition those winning developers will receive.