Mini-Documentary Examines Streaming and the Game Industry

An online mini-documentary titled "The Future of Digital Distribution" looks at how streaming and cloud computing are changing the video gaming industry. The video was created by Game Industry TV and is hosted by Scott Steinberg, the site's founder.

Coming in at just under 10 minutes long, the documentary moves quickly and is a good introduction for anyone interested in streaming media, whether games, video, or audio.

The video looks at how direct distribution online makes lower prices possible and provides a direct link with game buyers. Online gaming lets players join their friends in a game easily, and social features enhance communication. With cloud computing, players can play remotely stored games immediately, without needing to download them. Experts look at where cloud computing is now and what types of games work best when played remotely.

Built around brief interview segments, the documentary includes commentary from Atari founder Nolan Bushnell, Electronic Arts creator Trip Hawkins, THQ CEO Brian Farrell, Gaikai head David Perry and Disney Interactive Studios GM Graham Hopper. It also includes interviews with reporters and analysts from The Los Angeles Times, MSNBC, and VentureBeat.