In general, the average web browser and a video game are processes that compete for computer resources, and it is always recommended to close the former to (try to) improve the performance of the latter. However, at E3 2019, Opera presented its new Opera GX, a browser specifically designed for gamers. This variant includes Twitch integration, a news corner, launches and offers, and the so-called GX Control, a panel that limits CPU and RAM usage to specific values.
The public is still digesting the news about the Project Scarlett console, the Halo Infinite trailer, and Keanu Reeves' involvement in Cyberpunk 2077, but E3 2019 continues. With just under 48 hours left, surprises keep coming. Both in hardware and software, the expo has been satisfying (so far), and the folks at Opera decided to take the opportunity to make a new announcement.
What the company seeks is to harmonize the relationship between web browsers and the current demands of gamers. We know that browsers are heavy, send telemetry, devour RAM, and their integration with the main online services depends on extensions. Opera's strategy is to launch a more efficient browser, with the possibility of setting hard limits on resource consumption, without sacrificing flexibility. Let's make room for Opera GX.
Opera GX: The 'Gamer' Browser
The browser's base is none other than standard Opera, and it won't be hard for you to find certain “Chromium details” in its settings menu. What exactly is different about Opera GX? First, its interface. The default configuration favors a dark theme with red details (almost like it had LED lights), but we can customize it. The rest is divided into three essential points:
- GX Corner: A “news center” that brings together news about upcoming games, direct links to their official portals, posts related to film, TV and video games from the most relevant media, and the occasional offer. This section needs to give the user more control over feeds, and for now I recommend limiting it to “Games”.
- Twitch integration: No point denying it. If you want to see the latest from youtubers and streamers dedicated to video games, you'll need to connect to Twitch, and Opera GX makes it easier with direct integration. If one of the streamers you follow starts broadcasting, this module will notify you immediately.
- GX Control: Probably the most striking and intriguing aspect of the browser. All Chromium derivatives consume RAM and CPU cycles like crazy. GX Control allows us to set very well-defined limits that Opera GX will never cross. The lowest values are defined based on available hardware, but you should think about 1-2 GB of RAM and 25 percent of the processor. It would be very interesting if GX Control received even more advanced options, like core affinity, and its total dumping to the swap file when not in use.
Opera GX is in a very early early-access phase. In other words, anyone interested in evaluating this browser will have to tolerate a little more than a bug. The folks at Opera hope to receive feedback and for users to report their favorite features. Do you think it's time for a browser for gamers? Download a copy, and share what you think.
Official site: Click here
