NVIDIA, one of the world’s most reputed computer graphics and software companies, is rolling out a new gaming device called Project SHIELD. This portable device is designed to give gamers the chance to play games while on the move, just like an iPod does for music or a Kindle for reading. Jen-Hsun Huang, Co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA, proudly describes Project SHIELD as a new way forward for gaming. He was quoted saying that the idea of Project SHIELD stems from the burgeoning mobile technology segment and the portable is aimed at liberating gamers from their boxes.
Following this philosophy of liberation and ultimate gaming, Project SHIELD works with games from both Android and Windows. These two technology giants, though not primarily aimed at gaming, have gained dominance in the gaming industry in the last few years. NVIDIA’s Tegra 4 processor is already acclaimed for revolutionizing gaming on many Android devices, and this move will just secure that bond tighter – to NVIDIA’s advantage. Project SHIELD allows users to directly download Android games from Google Play, and turns into a wireless receiver if gamers wish to access Windows apps. Another plus of the product is the long lasting battery life, so that you can steer clear of the electric outlet and charging chord for a while too!
While its avant-garde HD graphics, retina display, refined ergonomic design and audio system are strikingly attractive to gamers, Project SHIELD doesn’t wish to stop there. By enabling Android apps like Netflix, Hulu, etc. on the device, NVIDIA plans to target even those consumers that aren’t primarily gamers. It will position Project SHIELD as a wholesome mobile entertainment unit for this part of the market. Since users can easily dock it to a big screen, people that particularly prefer sitting on their couch and playing/watching movies will appreciate SHIELD too.
Approval and praise has been pouring in from all over the industry since NVIDIA has made this announcement. Game developers are happy, Android is happy, industry analysts are happy, Windows is happy, potential buyers are happy, hardware manufacturers are happy – everyone is happy! Vice President and Co-Founder of Epic Games, Mark Rein, reportedly sees Project SHIELD as a device with limitless potential. He applauds Project SHIELD for bringing new energy to games like Real Boxing and Hawken, and looks forward to see more Unreal Engine Technology products for Project SHIELD.
