OnLive, the US cloud-gaming operator, will debut on Android in the UK on 22 September. The service works via a broadband connection with users able to access a host of popular titles by real-time streaming.
Unlike traditional games consoles, OnLive content is streamed to an Android tablet, TV or computer in the same way a YouTube video or Spotify track operates. OnLive has promised The Guardian that over 100 “top tier” titles will be available from its launch date, although it’s currently unable to announce specific offerings.
Ubisoft, THQ and Square Enix have already joined forces with OnLive in America and the likes of Assassin’s Creed, Homefront and Batman: Arkham Asylum are in the process of being licensed for the UK. Two huge publishers who are conspicuous by their absence from On Live however, are Electronic Arts and Activision.
“OnLive will utterly transform gaming in the UK,” said OnLive founder and CEO Steve Perlman. “No discs, big downloads or specialised hardware needed. OnLive gives you the latest games instantly, anytime, anywhere on HDTV, PC, Mac, as well as iPad, Android tablets. High-performance gaming will be as accessible as streaming video, with unique social features such as massive spectating with voice chat and Facebook integration.”
Android owners with a gaming itch to scratch can subscribe to OnLive for free through their official UK website. They then have the choice of renting games for a limited period, buying unlimited access to their favourite titles or paying a monthly fee to access the OnLive PlayPack Bundle, which allows unlimited access to a large chunk of the OnLive line-up.
No price plans have been announced for the UK, although in the US the company offers a three-day pass for $5.99, a five-day pass for $8.99 or a PlayPack bundle for $9.99 a month. Full price titles require a one-off payment ranging from $20-$60.
Android users who’ve begun to notice an increasingly pricey theme emerging will be further pleased to know a separate wireless controller costing $50 can be bought for use with tablets, PCs and Macs.
But until OnLive launches in the UK, head to the Life of Android review page for all your gaming needs. When the cloud gaming service does hit UK shores, though, you can count on us to bring you the latest news and reviews.
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If I didn’t have an Xbox then OnLive would be a great idea, but it’s hard to see tablet functionality as anything more than an added bonus given that you’d need to be on a decent WiFi connection (i.e. at home) for it to work well.
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