Google announced its game streaming platforms Stadia at GDC 2019. Stadia will work across devices such as smartphones, tablets, TVs, laptops, and PCs via Chrome. It also integrates YouTube allowing developers to add a Play button on the game video on YouTube and let users immediately play the game on Chrome. Stadia will leverage Google’s data centers that are present in 200 plus countries and territories.
Google’s Phil Harrison took on stage to show Assasin’s Creed Odyssey working seamlessly across a Chromebook, Pixel 3, and TV via Chromecast. Moreover, users can use their own controllers or keyboard and mouse on Stadia on their PC or laptop.
Google also released Stadia controller in addition to its game streaming platform. It links to data centers directly via WiFi. It features two new buttons–a Capture button that allows players to share to friends, themselves or the world via YouTube and a Google Assistant button to assist players in-game.
Google has built the architecture of Stadia on its data center tech, which also powers its search results. It has been integrated with gaming-focused hardware to be able to stream high-quality video games. Stadia is powered by Stadia GPU from AMD which is at 10.7 teraflops. This is almost double of what Xbox One X and Ps4 Pro have, making it able to run games like Doom Eternal run at 4K 60fps in HDR.
Google claims that it had been testing Stadia’s tech internally for years and plans to enable 4K 60fps gameplay with HDR in surround sound for users when it is available. Eventually, Stadia is also expected to scale up to 8K as well. Users will also be given the option to share Stadia gameplay directly to YouTube at 60fps 4K. Developers can create multiple points of purchase and play for games on Stadia through Gmail, YouTube, and search, as far as getting right into a game with a click on a link. YouTubers could use it to send custom challenges to their fans and players can even create and share their own links to let others get in a game at the exact location they’re in.
However, Stadia won’t be restricted to single player games. Google confirmed that multiplayer games will also be supported, including battle royale couch-based co-op experiences.
Harrison also confirmed that Stadia will work across platforms. Google has not yet revealed a specific release date and price point has not been confirmed yet. It is also not clear what Internet connection would be needed for it, though Harrison said Stadia will launch in the US, UK, Canada, and Europe later this year.
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