Google’s First Stadia Connect
Phil Harrison hosted the very first Google Stadia Connect today, which gave us a little more information on the new streaming platform. The presentation included technical insights, pricing and some game announcements. The Connect was pretty good, but there are still some lingering questions (when is the release date??). If you didn’t watch the stream it’s no big deal; we have a recap for you.
Pricing
This is probably the most important piece of information that players have been wondering. While there is a free version, the two options that Google is pushing are The Founders edition and Stadia Pro.
Stadia Pro gives players the capability to stream games up to 4k/60fps/HDR with 5.1 surround sound. You will also have access to a free library of games, exclusive discounts on games and full access to Destiny 2 and all its content. This subscription service will run you $9.99 a month. It is important to note, that not all games will be free with Stadia Pro. There will be some games that Stadia Pro members will have for free, but other games will require you to purchase them.
The Founder’s edition will allow you to play Stadia first later this year. It comes with a Night Blue Controller, Chromecast Ultra, 3-month Stadia pro subscription, a “buddy pass” to give 3-month Stadia Pro to a friend and first dibs on your Stadia name. The Founder’s edition costs $129.99 and is available for pre-order now for a limited time.
If you don’t want to pay the subscription fees you can use the free version: Google Stadia Base. Stadia Base allows you to buy and keep the games you want and run them up to 1080p/60fps with stereo sound. This version of Stadia won’t be available until early 2020.
Games
The Stadia Connect came with a few game announcements. A teaser trailer for Baldur’s Gate 3 was the first game announcement of the Connect. The third installment in the beloved RPG series is being developed by Larian Studios. Gylt and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Breakpoint were also announced. Gylt is a puzzle horror game that follows a girl named Sally as she tries to find her missing cousin, Emily. Other games were announced to be coming to Stadia such as Mortal Kombat 11 and Get Packed.
High Speed Internet
A major question the Connect addressed was how Stadia would run on Wifi. Harrison explained that players with an internet speed of 35mbps can get the best experience Stadia has to offer. With 35mbps you can stream games on Stadia at the level offered by a Stadia Pro subscription.
The recommended minimum internet speed is 10mbps, which will get you 720p, 60fps and stereo sound. While you will technically be able to play Google Stadia on any device that can run Chrome, the internet speed requirements may still act as a barrier for many players. It is important to have good internet if you want to play games online; however, not all players have the means to access high-speed internet.
