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Android
and Linux are not known for gaming. Although you can play games through
android powered Tablets, but no self respecting gamers would call Angry
Birds a ‘real’ game. Ouya, Steam Box, and Nvidia’s Project Shield have
therefore been dismissed by some critics, because it is a common
perception that platforms such as Android and Linux do not go along with
gaming. However, that is about to change.
If Nvidia’s Project Shield proved one thing, it’s that a powered up
Android machine can handle any gaming engine as well as Xbox,
PlayStation, or a Windows powered PC. Although the open platform is
currently known for Tablets and Smartphones, they are constantly growing
and expanding into new areas.
With the launch of Linux powered Steam Box, we now have not one but two high spec devices that can handle all major gaming
engines, can connect to HD TVs, and can provide a complete gaming
experience on the big and small screen alike. Gamers are a bit skeptical
about Android and Linux powered devices, but we are moving towards a
world where the consoles will simply be means to an end, and the service
being provided will hold greater value.
In the gaming world, the hardware’s only job is to be able to run the
game without any glitches, and to provide gamers with a thoroughly
satisfying experience. The gaming console industry has so far been
dominated by PlayStation and Xbox (no disrespect to Nintendo), and any
new entrant would find it difficult to turn that around. However, with
technological advancements, devices such as Steam Box and Shield will
most definitely give Sony and Microsoft a run for their money.
Nvidia
is also offering a grid cloud computing, through this the gamer can use
Shield’s streamlining feature and play the game as long as they are
connected through a high speed internet connection. You can simply
connect the device to your TV, enjoy the game, save the game, and take
your Shield with you. You can take it anywhere you want and play it on
the built-in small screen; your progress would still be saved through
cloud computing.
While Steam Box is not out yet, it is being advertised as “all-in-one
streaming, gaming, and browsing server that travels to multiple gaming
displays”. For now we are expecting a product similar to Shield, but may
be Steam would surprise us.
Both Shield and Steam Box were extremely popular topics in the CES
2013. Representatives from Microsoft and Sony have come up with
politically correct answers when asked about new entrants in the gaming
industry, and it is difficult to speculate if the big two are worried
about Nvidia or Steam.
The two devices will need a lot more enhancements and upgrading if
they are to take away from Xbox or PlayStation’s market share. However,
with increased concentration on cloud computing, streaming, and built in
browsing and online shops, both Steam and Nvidia are destined to change
the gaming industry forever.
