Amazon Web Services (AWS), a subsidiary of Amazon.com, Inc., has introduced Amazon GameLift Streams, a fully managed service that allows game developers to stream high-quality, low-latency games to players on virtually any device with a browser. This new capability aims to eliminate the need for developers to modify their games for streaming or build their own infrastructure. Players can start playing games almost instantly without long waits for downloads.
Amazon GameLift Streams is part of Amazon GameLift, an AWS service designed to support demanding game development and delivery. The service enables developers to upload game content onto cloud-based GPU instances and begin streaming with minimal code modification. It supports streaming on various devices, including PCs, phones, tablets, and smart TVs via WebRTC-enabled browsers.
Chris Lee, general manager and head of Immersive Technology at AWS, stated: "With more than 750 million people playing games running on AWS every month, we have a long history of supporting the industry’s game development... For game developers, this creates exciting new revenue and monetization opportunities that weren’t possible before."
The service provides developers with flexible scaling options for streaming capacity and offers six AWS Regions for low-latency gameplay worldwide. Notable users include Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc., Jackbox Games, Ludeo, and Xsolla.
Jackbox Games plans to use the service to reach broader audiences by providing full game experiences on smart TVs and other devices. Xsolla will enhance its cloud gaming capabilities using Amazon GameLift Streams for scalable deployment and platform integration.
Ludeo has leveraged the service for frictionless game discovery through instantly playable highlights. Their recent campaign achieved higher engagement rates compared to traditional ads.
Amazon GameLift Streams also facilitates faster game testing by reducing time and costs associated with downloading test builds. Developers can distribute secure test builds efficiently while protecting intellectual property.
Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. uses the service to stream immersive virtual worlds related to its Gundam franchise, offering interactive experiences without requiring high-end hardware.
Amazon GameLift Streams is an extension of Amazon GameLift Servers already in use by major developers like Ubisoft and Zynga. It supports up to 100 million concurrent users per game.
For further information about these services or upcoming events such as the Game Developer Conference in San Francisco from March 19-21, interested parties are encouraged to visit relevant web pages or contact AWS directly.