Microsoft Flight Simulator Highlights A Bold Microsoft Strategy

Microsoft Flight Simulator Highlights A Bold Microsoft Strategy

Much of the news about Microsoft’s plans for a new video game console system has come out this week.  What is clear is that Microsoft is focused on a service-based subscription model.  However, one of the best indications of where Microsoft is going may be Microsoft Flight Simulator which launched for PC in August. The Flight Simulator franchise has been around since 1982 when Microsoft was using it to promote IBM DOS-based PCs.  In 1996, the franchise moved to Windows.....
Nvidia GeForce NOW is Strong Competitor to Google Stadia

Nvidia GeForce NOW is Strong Competitor to Google Stadia

The GeForce NOW cloud gaming service has been operating for several years. Today in a blog post, Nvidia announced GeForce Now is open for all and the service is officially launching. GeForce Now is launching as a $5 a month subscription service. This $5 price includes the first 3-months free and is good through 2020. There is also a free.....
The Failure of Google Stadia

The Failure of Google Stadia

When we had our first look at the Google Stadia streaming service at GDC in March 2019 we left uncertain. To us it was unimpressive, but we were told Google had more up its sleeve. Last week Google Stadia officially launched (we think) and it became clear the emperor has no clothes. Google Stadia is dead on arrival. I.....
Sony Gets Aggressive With PlayStation Now Game Streaming Service

Sony Gets Aggressive With PlayStation Now Game Streaming Service

In advance of the launch of competing services, Sony has announced a major price reduction for its PlayStation Now game streaming service.  In addition to cutting monthly subscription prices in half, Sony has added major new AAA content including Grand Theft Auto V. The new monthly pricing is: US: $9.99 – monthly / $24.99 – quarterly / $59.99 – yearly (from 19.99/ 44.99/ 99.99) CAN: $12.99 – monthly / $34.99 – .....
Gamers are Big on Netflix and Spotify Subscription Services

Gamers are Big on Netflix and Spotify Subscription Services

To look at the potential for streaming games, DFC Intelligence commissioned a quick survey of 1,000 gamers.  We used our panel of younger core gamers from a global pool (not including Asia).  Among the many questions, we asked was what general video subscription services gamers currently use.  Not surprisingly Netflix came out as a clear leader.  Music service Spotify also did very well among thi.....
Google Stadia Underwhelms at Game Developer’s Conference

Google Stadia Underwhelms at Game Developer’s Conference

For a long time, the industry knew that major players were looking to get into the game market via streaming services. Google, of course, was one of the largest such players. At the Game Developer’s Conference in San Francisco, Google officially unveiled its Google Stadia gaming service. Many in the industry breathed a sigh of relief as it appears Google is nowhere near being a major player. DFC Intelligence has been covering the potential of streaming, cloud and digital distribution.....
Will Apple be Joining the Netflix of Games?

Will Apple be Joining the Netflix of Games?

Well, we said it in our welcome to 2019 brief on January 8.  We predicted that 2019 would be the year where everyone talks about the Netflix of Games.  The competition continues to heat up as now we may be adding Apple to the picture. The latest news this week were rumors that Apple was looking to launch its own game streaming service.  In reality this is not really news as almost every ma.....

PlayStation Now Subscription Pricing Fixed

JAN. 5, 2015 • Sony Computer Ent. of America (SCEA) has set pricing for its PlayStation Now subscription game streaming service starting January 13. Consumers will have a choice of two unlimited access subscription tiers: $19.99 per month or $44.99 for three months. PlayStation Now has more than 100 PS3 titles available to play with more expected to be added later. The service will be available only to PS4 owners at launch, with other systems to gain access in s.....