New Game Download Site Offers Play-As-You-Download Service

arcticstoat writes to tell us that despite the many game download sites already available, another one has decided to give it a go; only this time, with a twist. UK-based Game Domain International is launching their AWOMO service that will allow you to play the game before it's done downloading. As an added incentive to get people to sign up, you can try out the beta now and get Rome: Total War for free. "The trick, according to GDI, is its 'unique technology' that 'lets you start playing before the game has finished downloading, meaning you can be up and running, jumping and fragging in minutes rather than hours.' Although some other download services allow you to start playing a game before it's fully downloaded, you usually still have to download a big chunk of data before you can start, and GDI reckons that it's cracked this problem. According to GDI, AWOMO takes a look at your PC's spec and connection speed, and then hooks you up with a sufficient buffer to stop your game stalling during gameplay. The company is confident that 'the delivery system accurately predicts the data you require next and ensures it's already there waiting before you need it.'"

Comments

Is this a granular revenue model?

[MessyBlob]

This looks like a way in for agent software to charge for modules of software, e.g. episodic games. Alternatively, it looks like a good technology to speed up app launch on any system, using caching.

Could be cool, but I'm skeptical

[WiiVault]

The concepts is awesome, especially for those of us who use services like this. However I am unsure about how they can accurately predict where a player in "going". In some linear games this might not be too hard but what about GTA or other sandboxed games? Also in many cases it seems as though the game engine itself is a significant part of the download. If the entire engine must be downloaded first, then it is not so similar to other download-to-buy services. Still despite my concerns I will keep my eye on this one.

Do I own the games?

[omnilynx]

Let's say I take them up on this beta offer and download Rome: Total War. Then I decide their service just isn't for me. Do I own Rome: Total War? Can I play it after I quit their service? Or does it check with their service that I'm entitled to play the game every time?