GameStop Plans Game Streaming Service, Tablets

GameStop announced that it is planning a streaming game service for tablets, as it attempts to move away from retail stores and to an Internet-based bsuiness model.

Via the service, GameStop will allow Power Up Rewards members to stream games directly to tablet computers like the iPad and Motorola Xoom. The company is also considering creating its own line of tablet computers optimized for the service, as well as compatible bluetooth controllers.

GameStop's annoucement came a day after its aqusition of Spawn Labs, a peer-to-peer game streaming service launched in 2009. Offering much of the same functionally as OnLive, Spawn Labs's technology allows users to play console games without the actual use of consoles.

GameStop also announced its purchase of game distribution platform Impluse, which features a library of over a thousand games for download. The service also allows developers to implement a number of extra features, including achievements, chat, and cloud storage.

GameStop's purchases of Impulse and Spawn Labs come not long after its purchase of Kongreate, a games-hosting and social networking site launched in 2006. With its purchase of both Kongegate, Impulse, and Spawn Labs, GameStop is giving the clear indication that it intends to survive the video game industry's movement away from physical media.