Opera GX is a web browser designed specifically for gamers. Launched by Opera Software a few years ago, this browser is designed specifically for those who spend hours immersed in virtual worlds. But what makes this browser so special compared to the standard version? Let’s go find out.
Why a browser for Gaming?
Opera, with its GX browser, is making an interesting bet: in the next few years, games will no longer be downloaded. All kinds of entertainment will be accessed remotely through the Internet, and for convenience, since it is already a common tool, we will do it through a browser. If we accept this vision, a browser must become much more powerful than it is today. It must be able to handle 3D environments, allow us to use peripherals and give us more control over resources.
What we need, then, is a new generation of browser. Opera GX, which we are examining for this review, seems to be a first step in that direction.
Features
Opera GX immediately stands out for its design, clearly inspired by the world of video games. With a futuristic and aggressive look, it uses dark colors combined with bright neon accents. For example, the neon red logo and neon blue buttons contrast perfectly with the browser’s dark background, creating a visual atmosphere reminiscent of the neon lights typical of games.
Another prominent feature is GX Control, a panel that allows the browser to limit CPU, RAM, and network usage, thereby optimizing the PC’s resources for gaming. It also provides real-time statistics on resource usage and allows you to quickly close tabs or applications that consume too much.
No less important is the GX Corner, a section dedicated to the latest news and offers from the gaming world. Here you will find a selection of free, discounted, or upcoming games, with reviews, ratings, and a calendar of release dates. It also includes a game news aggregator and a currency converter to compare prices of games in different countries.
Opera GX integrates seamlessly with major streaming and social gaming platforms, such as Twitch, Discord, YouTube, and Reddit. Thanks to the browser’s sidebar, you can easily access these platforms without having to open new tabs or windows. Also, receive notifications when your favorite channels or profiles go live or publish new content.
Finally, Opera GX is compatible with Chrome extensions, allowing you to expand the browser’s customization options and functionality. It also supports some unique extensions, such as automatic translator, QR code reader, ad blocker, and force dark mode, which darkens web pages that do not have a dark theme. The browser also offers an original soundtrack that changes based on user actions and a silent mode to turn off all sounds. It also allows you to customize the theme by choosing from different shades and backgrounds.
There is also a feature called “Fake My History” designed to protect users’ reputations. Basically, the most embarrassing browsing history is replaced with a “clean” version after two weeks of inactivity.
Opera GX makes a sensible assumption: either the user has had some “unpleasant incident” or has decided to change browsers. As a little parting gift, after 14 days of non-use, Opera GX replaces the history with a dummy version. That way, if your partner, parent or roommate snoops on Opera GX, they won’t see that you have visited sites banned for minors or of dubious morality. The fake history, on the other hand, will show searches such as “local volunteer opportunities,” “free online courses for personal growth,” and other “good guy” searches.
Conclusions
Opera GX is a browser designed with various features specifically for gamers. Compared to the standard version of Opera, the value added is currently not very high, but there are some really interesting features.
If you are already an Opera user and a gamer enthusiast, we strongly recommend that you try this step. If you have never used Opera, it might be a good opportunity to find out if you like it better than your current browser.