Some of our readers will remember the OnLive cloud gaming platform that we told you about back in March of 2009. Good news: they have just announced that OnLive will launch on the 17th of June 2010.
The OnLive gaming service is slightly different from traditional console gaming. All you will need to play a game on the platform is either a PC or a Mac. The games are actually run from OnLive servers, similar to cloud computing, so you will be able to play them even on low-end computers. This means that the hardware requirements on the user’s end are minimal, as the heavy lifting is done by OnLive’s powerful servers.
Introducing the OnLive MicroConsole
OnLive has also announced that it will be launching a MicroConsole, which is basically a cheap cassette-sized adapter that can be plugged into your PC to stream games from the OnLive server. This MicroConsole is designed to make the gaming experience more seamless and accessible, allowing users to connect their PCs or Macs to their TVs and enjoy high-quality gaming on a larger screen. The MicroConsole will come with a controller, making it easier for gamers to dive into their favorite titles without needing additional peripherals.
Potential Impact on the Gaming Industry
It certainly will be interesting to see how well the OnLive platform works. If they get it right and are able to stream the same quality games as consoles to a TV, PC, or Mac, it could end up being a really popular gaming service. The potential for OnLive to disrupt the traditional gaming market is significant. By eliminating the need for expensive gaming hardware, OnLive could make high-quality gaming more accessible to a broader audience. This could be particularly appealing to casual gamers who are not willing to invest in a dedicated gaming console.
Moreover, the cloud-based nature of OnLive means that games can be updated and maintained centrally, reducing the need for users to download large patches or updates. This could lead to a more streamlined and user-friendly gaming experience. Additionally, the ability to play games on multiple devices without needing to purchase separate copies for each platform could be a major selling point for gamers.
There are no details as yet on how much the OnLive gaming platform will cost. Pricing will be a crucial factor in determining the platform’s success. If OnLive can offer a competitive subscription model or pay-per-play options, it could attract a large user base. As soon as we find out more details, we will let you guys know.
The launch of OnLive on June 17th, 2010, marks an exciting development in the gaming industry. With its innovative cloud-based approach and the introduction of the MicroConsole, OnLive has the potential to change the way we think about gaming. Whether it will live up to its promise remains to be seen, but it is certainly a platform worth keeping an eye on.
via Associated Press
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