In November 2019, Google unveiled Stadia, a pioneering cloud gaming service. Fast forward three years, Google recently announced the discontinuation of Stadia services, slated for January 2023.
Now, Google is revolutionizing cloud gaming once again with the introduction of Chromebook as a gaming platform. Teaming up with leading manufacturers such as Lenovo, Asus, and Acer, Google is at the forefront of this new venture.
To ensure top-notch performance, Google has collaborated with Corsair, HyperX, and SteelSeries to produce “Works with Chromebook” certified peripherals. Additionally, Google has partnered with prominent cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now, Microsoft Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna, promising a slew of blockbuster games for avid gamers.
Let’s delve into the hardware details. The initial line of Chromebooks, crafted by Acer, Asus, and Lenovo, boasts gaming-centric features like high-resolution displays and a minimum refresh rate of 120 Hz, along with Wi-Fi 6 or 6E compatibility.
For an immersive gaming experience, these Chromebooks are equipped with premium audio systems and RGB keyboards with anti-ghosting support. This feature ensures accurate key registration, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.
In a strategic move to avoid pitfalls experienced with Stadia, Google has set the price range for these Chromebook laptops between $399 and $799. Depending on the price point, these laptops will house processors ranging from Intel Core i3 to Intel Core i7.
Let’s take a closer look at the key offerings of the initial Chromebook models:
Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook –
- Boasts a 16-inch WQXGA screen (2560 x 1500) with an impressive 120Hz refresh rate.
- Runs on a 12th Gen Intel Core i3/i5 processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM.
Acer Chromebook 516 GE –
- Offers a 16-inch WQXGA screen (2560 x 1500) with a high-performing 120Hz refresh rate.
- Powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i3/i5 processor, complemented by 8GB of RAM.
Asus Chromebook Vibe CX55 Flip –
- Features a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS touchscreen display, delivering a swift 144Hz refresh rate.
- Houses an 11th Gen Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, with a choice of 8GB or 16GB of RAM.
With Chromebook leading the way, Google is set to redefine the cloud gaming landscape, offering gamers an unparalleled experience in the virtual realm.
Nilesh R. Agrawal 