Google enters gaming with cloud-based streaming service Stadia as analysts say content will be king
- Analysts say success of cloud gaming depends heavily on the underlying network and how much controlled-latency traffic it can support
Alphabet’s Google on Tuesday launched Stadia, a cloud-based service that allows users to stream games including “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” and “NBA 2K20” on its Chrome web browser.
The service will start with a slate of 22 games and stream 4K videos at 60 frames per second, which can also be accessed through Google’s Chromecast and Pixel devices.
Google is offering the 4K version as part of its premium service, Stadia Pro, priced at US$9.99 per month. The free high-definition version is expected to roll out next year.
“We have over 450 games in development right now that will be coming out in 2020 and beyond,” Google Vice President and General Manager Phil Harrison told Reuters.
Stadia will need at least 10Mbps internet speed for the base 720p resolution and 35Mbps to stream games in 4K. Early reviews of Stadia have complained of latency, the time delay between pressing a button and getting the reaction on screen.
The success of cloud gaming depends heavily on the underlying network and how much controlled-latency traffic it can support during periods of peak demand, said Steve Alexander, chief technology officer at Ciena Corp, a telecom equipment maker.