Games in Set-top Box environment

Abstract

The ongoing digitalisation of television transmissions has created a market for digital video receivers. At least in the beginning these receivers are implemented as separate devices, commonly called Set-top Boxes. In the long run digital video reception capabilities will probably be integrated into television sets. Set-top Box manufacturers and service providers are also interested in bringing more advanced interactive features and services to market. This thesis examines the possibilities to implement games in Set-top Box environment. Issues related to game software development and performance requirements set by games are considered. The features of some existing game platforms are examined and compared to Set-top Boxes. The possibilities to implement games that take the special features of Set-top Boxes into account are also considered. In the future Set-top Boxes may have better support for games, some issues related to this are also considered. This work suggests that implementing games for Set-top Boxes is technologically possible, but financial issues require further study. The work concludes with suggestions on how Set-top Box manufacturers could support game software developers. /Kir10