Samsung has launched its Gaming Hub platform, ready to deliver on-demand videogame streaming direct to its latest range of Smart TVs as a free upgrade.
The Tizen-powered Hub arrives as a new addition across Samsung’s 2022 Smart TV line-up, and launches initially in the UK, US, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Korea, and Brazil. Existing owners should be seeing it simply added to their TV interface as part of the latest software update, featuring across its QLED TVs, plus the likes of the newly-reviewed S95B QD-OLED and the company’s Smart Monitor Series.
While there’s no need for any additional hardware, or expense, anyone tempted to make the most of this selection of ‘free’ games, might want to consider having a compatible controller handy (you can use your remote to navigate the menus, but not play games) – and the odd subscription will also significantly increase your playing choices. Similarly, while you don’t need a Samsung account to access the platform, it will also offer up a few more options if you do sign up. The only other real caveat is that, as a purely streaming service, the Gaming Hub does require an online connection.
Among the partners at launch who’ll be feeding content the way of your new Samsung TV are NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Google Stadia and Utomik – although the availability of all titles and services may differ between regions. No small addition to the roster will come from the recently announced Xbox Game Pass Ultimate titles that will also be available on the platform via the Xbox app to those with the relevant subscription (typically £10.99 a month, but £1 trials and Xbox Live Gold conversions can offer up quick savings), and Amazon Luna will also be added to the platform in the near future.
The Gaming Hub also offers up easy access to the likes of Twitch, YouTube, and Spotify to mix up your gaming with other streaming sources. As for the games themselves, you can use the Hub’s integrated interface to manage your options, and look up some recommended or previously played titles, as well as accessing the latest game-related news, tutorials, trailers and more. It’s also compatible with a range of Bluetooth-enabled accessories, such as your standard console-friendly controllers and headsets (with voice control an option where applicable) – which may add some extra cost if you don’t already have a spare one or two in your home.
The Samsung 2022 TV collection already comes with HDMI 2.1 ports offering up to 144Hz Variable Refresh Rates (VRR) and variations of its Motion Xcelerator system that boasts low input lag of ≤5ms and an Auto Low Latency Mode. Plus, you’ll find the TVs offer up four picture modes to suit the game you’re playing (FPS, RPG, RTS, and Sports), and bonus features such as Super Ultra Wide Game View for a zoomed-out 32:9 aspect ratio, and the contrasting Zoom function to get a closer look, along with the smoothing perks of AMD's FreeSync software.
Speaking on the launch, Won-Jin Lee, president and head of the service business team at Samsung Electronics, said: “The Samsung Gaming Hub combines Samsung’s leadership in streaming technology with our experience in creating the industry’s most cutting-edge hardware, removing the barriers to entry so people can just play. With expanding partnerships across leading game streaming services and expert curated recommendations, players will be able to easily browse and discover games from the widest selection available, regardless of platform.”
It all adds up to an impressive-looking package, even if existing gamers may well prefer to stick to their own PC or console. However, for a free addition, it’s not to be sniffed at, especially for those who like to play games but can’t justify the cost of a new console, while it also opens up access to a broader range of games that might not otherwise be readily available on other platforms.
So, who’s ready to play? If anyone has had a chance to take a look and maybe try it out, we’d love to hear how you’re finding it in these early stages. Similarly, let us know if this might nudge a Samsung TV up a place or two on your 2022 TV wish-list, or if you’re quite happy sticking with what you’ve got!
SOURCE: Samsung (via press release)
IMAGES: Samsung