If you’ve been paying attention to pretty much any video game related publication you’ve probably already heard of OnLive. This service allows consumers to literally stream video games straight from the cloud to their PC or to their television utilizing the MicroConsole. This means that the instant you want to play a game, you’re playing it – no wait times, no downloads, no nothing just pure unadulterated gaming.
Another service has been in the works for quite some time that is looking to compete with OnLive known as Gaikai. This service takes the same general concept of OnLive (streaming games from the cloud to the consumer) and puts it all in a web browser. This means that instead of having to download a dedicated client as you do with OnLive, all you need is a compatible game browser and a fast Internet connection and you’re ready to go.
While the final product isn’t out just yet, Gaikai has just launched their beta for all to sign up. However, during the sign up process the company announces that they are “restricting game demos to a subset of users with the very best network connections”. In other words, if your broadband has been slackin’ as of late you may not make the cut.
In terms of content, Gaikai doesn’t currently offer much instead just a few game demos from EA incluing Mass Effect 2, Dead Space 2, The Sims 3 and for good measure, they also decided to throw Second life in there.
Unfortunately we haven’t gotten a chance to try out the game service but if you get a chance to do so please do share with us your experience.
Yesterday we told you that a live-action Halo: Reach short would be aired today and that is has. Even better, we have it for your viewing pleasure, above.
The short doesn’t really know anything in terms of action but it does show a bit about how one of these Spartan soldiers came to be. Check it out and let us know what you think in the comments. All I know is I want one of those suits of armor, really badly. Ultimate Halloween costume? You bet.
Didn’t get a ticket to BlizzCon? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Luckily, Blizzard, RayV and DirecTV are offering over 16 hours of the event live for $39.95.
Below is what will be included during the live stream:
Exclusive interviews and commentary
Main stage presentations including opening ceremony
Tournament coverage and team highlights
Additionally, you will be given the exclusive BlizzCon 2009 WoW in-game pet; Grunty the Murloc Marine.
In case you don’t actually have an Xbox Live Gold already, you should definitely get an upgrade right now. Or think about it for a couple of days, but do know that January 5th is the last day to decide for the Gold account.
And here’s some incentive for your thinking. The upgrade will get you a free gift from Microsoft. You will have access to free downloadable content from Xbox.
In order to get the gift you will have to sign up for a 12 month Xbox Live Gold membership. But you were going to do that anyway.
Here are the available downloadable gifts. Just go ahead and pick one!
Hexic 2: Spin trios of hexes to create groups of matching colors in this puzzle favorite.
Hardwood Spades: Play the classic party card game with friends over Xbox LIVE.
Poker Smash: Make vertical and horizontal matches by forming poker hands in this puzzle game.
N+: Become a daring ninja with unique, physics-based controls, and stylish animated graphics.
EVERY EXTEND EXTRA EXTREME: Unique, fun gameplay mixes with hip and cool original music.
Crackdown Getting Busy Bonus Pack: New vehicles, weapons, game modes, equipment, and achievements.
Halo 3 Legendary Map Pack: Grab these three new maps for the ultimate multiplayer experience.
Have you ever wanted to blatantly prove to the general public that you are a complete and total supporter of the Xbox 360? Well now is your chance as Microsoft has released soccer jerseys bearing the Xbox 360 branding.
Ok, in reality they are soccer jerseys for the Microsoft sponsored Seattle Sounders, but collectors and fans alike are sure to pounce on this item. How much is it to prove your Xbox 360 fanboydom? $90.
