As a banker in my former life, I can honestly state that most, if not all of the projects submitted to the Kickstarter entity would not have been financed via traditional type loans. Sourcing funds for what the individual(s) need to push their dream(s) to reality is a momentous undertaking. Most business plans for start-ups tend to contain a lot of fluff rather than hard, cold facts that will ensure a better rate of success. Kickstarter is a relatively new alternative funding source that does not, as far as I know, involve banks, venture capitalists, etc. Instead, it is a vehicle through which many small investors, like myself, make a leap-of-faith in the project that interests said investors on a much smaller investment level. However, as always, there is strength in numbers. I firmly believe the majority of projects deemed appropriate have been necessarily scrutinized by Kickstarter giving investors some sense of security. It is a given that the majority of projects funded might never see the light of day...therein lies the risk that so many of us are willing to take. I, for one, have believed in the Ouya console since its inception. Updates from Ouya to the backers are provided on a regular basis indicating real progress and concern for its investors. Ouya is keeping to its timetable and will most likely deliver a console like none other. The SDKs have been delivered and the console is still scheduled for retail beginning in late March 2013!! This, to me, is proof positive that the Ouya will come to fruition as promised. In the interim, I sincerely wish the best of success to all those who attempt to realize their dream with the support of the Kickstarter program and the investors who participate each and every day. Investment in new innovation is always a good thing!!
When the OnLive service was originally offered, I pre-ordered my unit immediately. (It reminded me of the Phantom console that never happened!) I have tried various connections and have found cable broadband to be very good. The controller (wireless) takes some getting used to, but most of the games can be played via a keyboard/mouse combination as well. I am really enjoying the service. I should mention that I use the micro-console wired directly to my router, rather than connecting via my wireless network. It does make a significant difference. And, from what I have read, NetFlix may become an offering on the OnLive service at a future date. For ten bucks a month, I am extremely pleased with OnLive!!
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