Tech Talk

I still can’t quite picture it, but the prospect of not having to buy a game console to play my favorite games sounds good. That is how I understand the feature on Yahoo buzz where a new technology could make game consoles obsolete.

Introducing OnLive! It’s just like YouTube video that you can control.

“OnLive will supply players with a small set-top box, not much bigger than a Nintendo DS, which will plug into your TV and your home broadband connection. From there, you can start playing games just like those on the Xbox 360, PS3 or PC — but with no install time, no waiting for downloads, and no need for big, noisy, expensive consoles cluttering up your living room. OnLive’s service can be continually upgraded, too, so you’ll never be stuck with obsolete hardware again”

Doesn’t that sound good?!

They were even able to test drive the service and played with an OnLive box. Tested were a blisteringly fast race Burnout Paradise and top-spec shooter Crysis: Warhead, which were both totally playable over the service. The system requires just a few button-presses to set up and start playing.

Partners that have already signed deals with OnLive include EA, Take-Two and Ubisoft. Some game that were already in the service are Grand Theft Auto IV, Lego Batman and Mirror’s Edge, although the lineup will likely change before the service launches this winter.

Will OnLive be the future of gaming? It remains to be seen.