Prediction #5: The UMPC will not be an ideal gaming platform
As a gaming machine goes, the UMPC will leave something to be desired (sorta like how the PSP leaves something to be desired). Oh sure, the Origami will play Solitaire just fine and will likely even run most of yesteryear’s powerhouse games at a decent clip. The real problem here is not with the system’s power or its small size, it’s the UMPC’s lack of adequate control mechanics. We could be wrong here, but playing Doom 3 or FEAR on this thing doesn’t look like a satisfying proposition.
With a touchscreen to help out, some games may translate over ok, but most will prove too complex for the UMPCs self-imposed, on-the-go limitations (unless you atrted adding in keybaord and mosue peripherals). A notable exception to this rule (and, really, one that could totally blast the doors off of this prediction) is the MMORPG. Most of the current generation MMORPG’s are click driven games and a UMPC would suit this type of play style rather well. Sure, easy analog control would be ideal, but an MMORPG could make due and adapt to the rogors of an Ultra Mobile PC.
Imagine World of Warcraft or D&D on-the-go. I know plenty of game-geeks who have that exact dream. I don’t think the UMPC will make this a reality, but it is capable.
Besides, we know that Micosoft has its own, true portable game machine in development. The UMPC won’t be competing with it. Micorsoft will make sure of that.
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