Boondogl Promises Cross-Platform Video Game Market, Beta Launching Soon
Kermdinger Studios claimed that its new service, Boondogl, will be the first video game marketplace that is not platform specific. When the beta launches, it will be available for PC, Mac and Linux, with mobile, console and VR support expected by next spring. The company stated that gamers will be able to play against their friends regardless of the device each is using.
Boondogl's games will run locally through a web browser using HTML5, JavaScript and WebGL. Kermdinger said this eliminates lag experienced in streaming services. The company believes this will create easier access to games, lowering the barrier of entry to casual gamers. Boondogl doesn't require any plugins or downloads, and load times are minimized by making use of the browser cache.
Kermdinger said that developers can use any development tool to create their games before porting them over to native web technology. The company has also offered to handle porting games if needed, or the developer and publisher can take care of porting if they wish. Offering to port games seems like a noble gesture in order to get games onto the service quickly, but there will presumably be a charge for doing so. We'll be following up with Kermdinger about how it plans to handle porting requests.
Boondogl will host a range of console quality indie games and AAA titles to purchase and play via its service when it opens up to the public. The date for Boondogl's B\beta test has not been revealed, although you can sign up for the company newsletter for a chance to gain access when it is available. Kermdinger plans to launch Boondogl in Q2 2015 on PC, Mac and Linux, so it won't be long before you can try for yourself.
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Kevin Carbotte is a contributing writer for Tom's Hardware who primarily covers VR and AR hardware. He has been writing for us for more than four years.
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surphninja Would love some details on how the tech works, but even more I can't believe they were able to work out agreements between all of the parties to allow it.Reply -
scolaner ReplyWould love some details on how the tech works, but even more I can't believe they were able to work out agreements between all of the parties to allow it.
I have to admit, I share your skepticism. We're working on getting more info about this when we're able.. -
Gary Brandon Boondoggle: (n) -- "work or activity that is wasteful or pointless but gives the appearance of having value".Reply
With a company name like that, maybe skepticism is warranted... -
singemagique ReplyBoondoggle: (n) -- "work or activity that is wasteful or pointless but gives the appearance of having value".
With a company name like that, maybe skepticism is warranted...
If it doesn't pan out, at least they were honest from the start.