Japan are set to get the countries first games console based on cloud gaming technology and it is set to cost ¥500 (£3/$5) per month for a basic package of games.

Cloud gaming isn’t that special now. Onlive were the first to make a real push into mainstream cloud gaming using an app for the PC and mobile devices as well as a console of their own but soon found themselves in financial woes due to a small install base and large costs. At the same time there is still something about it that interests people and companies and it was only a year ago that Sony bought Gaikai, the worlds largest cloud gaming provider, for $380 million. It will be the Gaikai technology that will push the game streaming that was announced as a feature of the Playstation 4.

Broadmedia are the company behind this new console. They are a Toyko based company that offer streaming of movies and TV as well as hosting services. The G-Cluster is set to go live on the 20th of June and launch with dozens of games that will be streamed through a wireless internet connection. The launch titles will consist of mostly puzzle and adventure games with a few larger titles as a bonus, the more notable one being Lego Harry Potter.

As previously mentioned, the base subscription of this console will be ¥500 (£3/$5) per month for a base set of titles. Other titles will cost a set rate of up to ¥2,940 (£19/$29 per year. The console, which connects to the TV through a HDMI plug, will cost ¥9,980 (£65/$98) alone or ¥13,800 (£90/$136) with a controller. However, a controller isn’t necessary to purchase as existing third party controllers will work and there will also be the ability to download a controller app for the smartphone or android device.

Of course devices like this wont compete with such as the Xbox One and Playstation 4, they will however allow for a cheaper alternative for those wanting a quick game to play. The interesting thing will be to see if this can take off in Japan and then a possibility of something similar taking root in the rest of the world. Where OnLive failed for aiming too high to begin with, a low-flier such as this may work.

Would you buy a console like this? I think I would for when I’ve only got a little spare time.