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.'"

Guildwars

[im_thatoneguy]

Guildwars has done this for years. I think WOW does as well.

It's great if you're at school or work or grandma's or somewhere else. Just stream in the content you need for the region/quest you're in.

Re:Not Exactly Original...

[dr_wheel]

I could swear Valve tried something like this with Steam back when it originally launched, but my memory is a bit fuzzy... probably has something to due with the bouts of fiery rage I experienced at the time.

Re:Could be cool, but I'm skeptical

[dk90406]

My thoughts as well. But realistically thinking, the game engine is probably pretty small (say 30 MB) compared to textures, audio and video. So for a linear games or level/scenario based games, this seems feasible.

This isn't new

[Narishma]

Other services like Steam and Metaboli already allow you to start playing the game while it downloads the rest of it in the background.

Re:Guildwars

[cephah]

Not really the same thing. What you are talking about is loading an area before you get to it. Games have been doing that since the original Playstation, or ealier. But to play the games you mention, you still need to download them in thier entirety first, and then install them.

Last time I played Guild Wars I downloaded a 50 kb executable and streamed content as I entered new areas. Makes me wonder if you've even tried the game.