OnLive launches tablet, smartphone gaming initiative

Cloud-based gaming service OnLive® has rolled out a new initiative to bring console-style video games to tablet computers and smartphones -- a move that could have significant implications for the mobile gaming industry.

The initiative, announced in December 2011, will kick off with 25 "console-class" games, including LEGO Batman™: The Videogame, L.A. Noire and Defense Grid Gold, which have all been adapted for touchscreen control. Nearly 200 other titles are also available through the service for tablets and smartphones with the use of the Universal Online Wireless Controller.

In a press release, OnLive notes that games on mobile devices to date have been relatively simple, consisting primarily of side-scrollers and puzzles. This new initiative has the potential to change that, as some of the titles included, like L.A. Noire, are acclaimed for sophisticated game-play and vivid graphics.

The mobile application is available now for free, though the OnLive Game System itself costs $99.99.

Experts anticipate mobile platforms to provide a much-needed adrenaline shot for the struggling gaming industry. According to an August 2011 report from Research and Markets, the mobile gaming market is expected to generate $18 billion by 2014.