Back in the 2000s, when I was still a young boy, I always thought of getting some PC games to play on my computer by copying the icons from cybercafe’s PC. As you would know, I ended up copying the shortcut for the games without any data in it. I am not sure if you guys had the same naive experience as me, but it felt like I have been betrayed by myself 😛.
Growing up playing console games like PlayStations 1 and 2 were such a memorable and sweet memory for me. There were some other games I was interested in, however, which I could not play because they were only available on specific consoles. The problem really gets into PC games because it does not have the specifications or requirements to run them. This is where cloud gaming comes in handy.
Gaming Comes to Cloud!
When Microsoft announced Project XCloud (it is now called Xbox Cloud Gaming) for cloud gaming experiences, I just could not help myself but to get excited about it. Just imagine, all the games on native X-box console that you could not play on the PC, can now be accessed through android phone! Who does not have android phone? Well, the iPhone users. 😛
No worries, there is something I want to share about it.
A few weeks ago, Microsoft announced that they have invited Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to start testing the Xbox Cloud Gaming limited beta, The beta will be tested for Windows 10 PCs and Apple phones and tablets, via web browsers. The invitations were sent to players in 22 supported countries. So, rejoice! Now anyone can be assured to play the games on the cloud, anywhere, anytime.
How does Cloud Computing work?
Well, from behind the scenes, it is not much complicated than you think it is. Just imagine many Xbox One S consoles stacking up together. They build up as one big server of Xbox One S console in their datacenters. Guess what? You no longer need any Xbox console to play the games! Simply download the application in your android phone (for now), launch it and play your game. As simple as that.
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox server (Multiple Xbox system in one system associates with other boards and everything needed)
Image from https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2019/05/24/project-xcloud-more-for-gamers-and-developers/
Final Thought About Cloud Gaming
Cloud brings advantages to various technologies and sectors, including gaming industry. Me, as a gamer, cloud gaming mentioned above is a great invention by Microsoft. This would be a great interest for those who do not intend to buy all the required consoles or hardware. All it need is your smartphone, and off you go, playing the games like the other console players. Do keep in mind, however, you will need at least a decent internet bandwidth to access the cloud gaming platform. Moreover, I must mention that this may not be as satisfying as playing with the actual console itself. It is just my thought on it, everyone has their own preference about it.
Oh yes, before I end this post, I should mention Xbox is not the only platform that offers cloud gaming. There are also other cloud gaming platforms you can try out. The list includes, but not limited to, Stadia by Google, Luna by Amazon, and Geforce Now by Nvidia.
Written by Luqman | The Cloud Dude (Intern)