Google unveils Stadia

Google is moving into the video game marketplace, but not necessarily in a way gamers might expect. During the Google keynote at GDC, the tech company unveiled their new video game streaming service, Stadia. Stadia is the future of gaming, and how well it works is yet to be seen, but the idea is fascinating!

As a streaming service, everything is readily available, which means no downloads, no installs, and no updates. Simply find what you want to play, purchase the rights to the software, and hop into a next level experience.

Lag? Sure. Drops? Sure. But one must assume that on a better than average internet connection, things should run very smoothly!

So what does this all mean? If you can find a screen to play on, you can use Stadia. From your PC to your TV, most screens will be capable of hosting a game or two on Stadia! Whether you use your own controller – USB or Wireless – or opt to use the Google Stadia Controller – the preferred way likely – there is lots of potential with this new service. And guess what…there is keyboard and mouse support as well.

When demoing Stadia during the event, Phil Harrison – VP and GM of Google Stadia – was playing Assassin’s Creed Odyssey within seconds, which was amazing to witness.

And the entire experience seems to be heightened by the Google Stadia Controller, which will function like all video game controllers outside of a few key differences. First, the controller connects via wireless; second, two additional buttons are added to the controller: a capture button that allows players to upload clips directly to YouTube, and a Google Assistant button that will function much like your Google Home products.

During the event, Phil demonstrated the usefulness of Google Assistant. Stuck on a puzzle? Tell google, and you will be brought to YouTube where a video from a user will display the solution you ultimately need. What a service, if it works!

And that will ultimately decide the fate of Google Stadia: will it work. If it does, this will revolutionize the video game landscape. If it doesn’t, I think all is not lost. Google is a huge company with lots of aspirations. Having Stadia not work isn’t something they will be OK with, and they will push it until it’s a product all gamers will want.

And I cannot wait!