Console? We don't need no stinking console -- well, at least Samsung TV owners don't. While video game manufacturers argue over which console is best, Samsung viewers will be streaming games directly to the TV.
Samsung just announced Samsung Cloud Gaming. The new cloud-based gaming service will allow customers to stream state-of-the-art console-quality games directly to select 2012 Samsung LED HDTVs. At launch, the service will only be available to owners of Samsung Smart TVs in the 7000 series or above. Sorry, plasma fans!
The newly announced service was developed in partnership with game platform provider Gaikai. The two promise that Samsung Cloud Gaming will deliver a mix of family-friendly and AAA video games. Available game titles will be announced closer to the service's actual launch.
Gaikai will be out in Los Angeles this week, showing off Samsung Cloud Gaming with gamepad support running on Samsung Smart TV's to the crowds attending E3 2012.
No downloads, patches or updates will be needed to use the service. Instead, customers can find games through Samsung's Smart Hub, and start playing almost immediately (depending on your broadband connection, of course). Also, Samsung says that gamers will be able to try games for free and "only pay for games they fall in love with." For now, there's no word on exactly how much that love will cost you.
"Samsung is excited to deliver this revolutionary gaming experience that takes advantage of all the benefits of cloud-computing, all on the central screen of the home-Samsung Smart TV," said Kyung-shik Lee, VP of Samsung's visual display business. "With Samsung Cloud Gaming, Samsung's leadership in Smart Content and commitment to providing consumers with an innovative Home Entertainment experience is evident."
Samsung says that the company will soon start accepting beta testers for its Cloud Gaming service on Smart TVs in the United States.
Where to Buy:
