Last month GS Group, an internationally-oriented Russian tech company whose key activities include developing technologies for digital TV, presented the GS Gamekit, the first Russian game console with HD set-top box functions. The new device is now available from the authorized dealers of General Satellite equipment and Tricolor TV providers. The recommended retail price of the console is 14,990 rubles (approximately $20 at the current exchange rate).
Games from major international game developers, such as Creative Mobile, Sperasoft, Handy Games, Herocraft, Amanita Design, Frogmind and Sigma Team, were prepared for the commercial release of the console, according to GS Group.
The game catalog for the GS Gamekit will be updated on a weekly basis with up to 100 games of various genres available by the end of 2016.
The Nitro Nation Stories races, Farm Invasion shooter, Ice Rage hockey simulator, Machinarium quest, Badland arcade and many other popular Android games will be available to paid subscribers after a free 30-day trial period.
The subscription package will include premium apps as well as exclusive transmedia projects, which combine gaming functionality and interactive services within TV programs. The first transmedia project is Real Russian Hunt, a game developed by First HDTV in cooperation with Sperasoft. The project will unite gamers into one global gaming network across Russia for an even deeper viewer involvement in TV content.
Innovative video game tournaments based on the GS Gamekit console will start in the second quarter of 2016. The first competition will be held with Nitro Nation Stories, a racing game developed by Creative Mobile.
Earlier this year GS Group presented the GS A230, the first Russian digital TV set-top box to support the Ultra HD (4K) standard. The device is powered by a new microprocessor manufactured by STMicroelectronics, and a co-processor designed by GS Group and used for the first time in consumer electronics.
