14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has started rolling out its previously announced cloud storage feature for the Xbox 360 console, as several Xbox Live Arcade downloadable games now support storing their save files in the cloud and not just on the actual console.
Without a doubt, one of the biggest features currently taking over the industry is cloud gaming, ranging from actually playing in the cloud, via services like OnLive or Gaikai which stream the gameplay to your computer, to storing data in the cloud, like save games or user information.
Microsoft is the newest company to join the trend, following Valve's Steam service or Sony's PlayStation Plus subscription program, as it has started offering support for cloud storage.
The feature was announced last month, when the company promised that the new cloud-based services were going to make gaming in between multiple consoles a breeze, as users would always have access to up-to-date save games or information.
Now, via Pocket Lint, it seems that the first titles with cloud storage support for their save files are being deployed over Xbox Live.
This is probably the first step in the official release of the service, with Microsoft expected to make a full announcement in the near future, when the entire array of cloud options will be available to users.
"We are making it easier for you to sign into your Xbox Live account from any console at any time to access your game saves and full profile, including items such as Microsoft Points to make purchases, Achievements and friends," said Xbox Live Vice President Marc Whitten when the feature was announced.
"Cloud storage will allow you to enjoy the same great Xbox Live gaming experience even when you're not in your own living room by giving you the option to store your game saves securely in the Xbox Live cloud instead of on a portable memory unit or your console's hard drive."
Expect more details in the near future about how the cloud services will actually work.