Cloud computing ushers in game changer

Video gamers are on the verge of a seismic transformation that could see once-dominant consoles rendered obsolete by streaming services

CLOUD GAMING
Computer processing required to run games is outsourced to cloud servers. Needs super-fast internet connection for player input commands to flow in one direction and images in other

Microsoft Project xCloud: Envisions gaming being similar to music and movies — available on-demand and accessible from any device or screen. Public trials roll-out 2019

Google Project Stream (U.S.): Currently testing streaming of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey through its Chrome browser. Presently available to invitees only

Nintendo and Ubisoft experiment (Japan): Assassin’s Creed Odyssey playable on Switch via streaming service (Japan has fastest, most stable broadband in G7)

Under-powered systems like Nintendo Switch can now run graphically demanding titles, normally only available on PCs and/or
Sony and Microsoft consoles

VIDEO GAME SALES
$140 billion 120
 100
  80
  60
  40
  20
   0 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2018*

1975: Magnavox Odyssey dedicated console

1994: Sony PlayStation CD console

2001: Microsoft XBox with built- in hard drive

2017: Nintendo Switch hybrid console

Arcade 
Console 
Handheld 
PC
Mobile 
VR



Sources: Financial Times, CNET, Microsoft, Google, Nintento, Ubisoft
*estimate © GRAPHIC NEWS