The longest time gamers only had Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, and PC to choose from when deciding on what platform to play their games. Google has been talking about getting in the game, and now they have shown the world how they are doing so with Stadia. Here is a rundown of everything known as of now.
What is it? How does it work?
Unlike any of the previous choices for gamers, Stadia will be a less expensive option, allowing people to stream games quickly without having to buy expensive hardware without having to download the game. Yes, streaming a game instantly in 4K and 60 FPS. Eventually, Google wants the bar to be set even higher with players getting 8K resolution and over 120 frames. As long as the developer of the title allows it to be on Google’s service.
You do need a PC, but don’t worry about needing high-end specs to play. Google’s servers take care of all of that for players to enjoy their experience with a high framerate and beautiful graphics. Discussions about streaming games have been going on for years, and this is what it will look like.
When you have the service, you simply hop onto Google Chrome and open up the Stadia tab then select what you want to play. The game will load up in seconds and go full screen, then you are good to start shooting aliens or owning noobs on Fortnite.
What else can you play it on instead of a PC?
PC is not your only option with Stadia. Phones, laptops, and tablets can all be used for the gaming service. If you have Chromecast, then you can stream right from your TV.
Internet Requirements
A strong, stable internet connection is needed. Google requires that you have a streaming rate of 15Mbps, latency below 40ms, and data loss below 5%.
Controller or mouse and keyboard?
Both can be used. For a controller, Google created its own to go with Stadia. The Stadia gamepad will connect itself to Google’s cloud then you have control over what you are playing.
Playing on PC allows for any controller you prefer to use, but playing on Chromecast on your TV must use the Stadia gamepad.
Games offered?
Nothing is revealed yet, but the demo did display Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey along with confirmation that exclusives will be developed for Stadia. Expect plenty of AAA and indie titles ranging from third party to first party developers.
Price?
No price has been listed.
Release
TBA 2019
More information will be released in the summer. Most likely this sounds like E3 season when Google will provide more details.
What do you think of Stadia? Is it the future of gaming? Is Google going for another ambitious gimmick that turns into Google Glass or is this something substantial? Tell me all your thoughts in the comments.
Image via Google
Tristan Zelden 