Google looks to be preparing to launch a new suite of gaming-related features attached to the Google Play digital storefront for Android-powered devices, appropriately titled "Play Games" (thanks The Verge).

According to tech blog Android Police, references to a multitude of new features were discovered in a leaked build of the Play Services application, including leaderboards, achievements, multiplayer matchmaking and invites, cloud saves, and in-game chat.

The Play Games service suite appears to be accessed by a little green controller icon, with the friends-list/contacts side of things handled by way of Google+, and its 'circles' system.

The features rumoured so far would bring Android's social gaming functionality close to most competing platforms like PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, and iOS Game Center, but falls somewhat short of industry-leader Steam.

With Google's annual I/O event taking place this week, we might be hearing more official words about Play Games very soon.