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OnLive goes live in June, doesn't cost what you'd expect
OnLive will go live on June 17th, presumably letting you play high-end PC games without needing a high-end PC. The idea is that the games run on "cloud servers" which accept your input, crunch all those processor-intensive numbers, and then stream the results to whatever pokey computer you have that can't run the game itself. Basically, you're using your computer as little more than a controller and a connection to a server. You can see a list of supported games here.
Of course, that's not the only reason to subscribe to something like OnLive. Some folks might be interested in a service that hosts a lot of games they can play for one low price. Unfortunately, it seems that OnLive isn't going to be that service. Check out the second line in the announced pricing scheme.The base month-to-month service fee is $14.95. Note that the service fee does not include the purchase or rental of games.
Oh my. So what do you get for your fifteen bucks?Included in the monthly service fee are OnLive-exclusive features such as instant-play free game demos; multiplayer across PC, Mac and TV platforms; massive spectating; viewing of Brag Clips™ video capture and posting; and cloud-saving of games you've purchased--pause, and instantly resume from anywhere, even on a different platform. Also included in the monthly service fee are features you'd expect from standard online games services such as gamer tags, user profiles, friends, and chat.
Basically, you're paying $15 a month to be able to pay for games individually. Gametap this ain't.
