Google To Stream Assassin’s Creed For Free In Test

Google is allowing some gamers the chance to play popular video game Assassin’s Creed Odyssey free of charge via its Chrome browser.

In a blogpost highlighting its plans for Project Stream, the search engine said it wanted to take streaming to “the next level”.

But it admitted there were technical challenges involved in streaming graphically rich content via a browser.

One expert said it was a bold move from Google to grab gaming revenue.

According to analyst company IHS Markit, global spending on games content and services is expected to reach $129bn (£99bn) this year.

While that could represent rich pickings for Google, it does not underestimate the size of the challenge.

Writing about Project Stream, Google’s product manager, Catherine Hsiao, said: “The technology and creativity behind these AAA [major] video games is extraordinary – from incredible detail and lifelike movement of the characters’ skin, clothing, and hair, to the massive scale of the world in which the game unfolds, down to every last blade of grass.

“Every pixel is powered by an array of real-time rendering technology, artistry, visual effects, animation, simulation, physics and dynamics.

“We’re inspired by the game creators who spend years crafting these amazing worlds, adventures and experiences. And we’re building technology that we hope will support and empower that creativity.”