The new world of cloud gaming can be a real headache the first time you look at it. This article will help you understand what cloud gaming is and which platform to choose to best fit your needs.
Update25/04/2024, 11:22
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In today’s digital age, cloud gaming is emerging as an innovative technology that is redefining the world of video games. A real Netflix for video games, it promises a new user experience and represents a genuine revolution in the world of gaming.
In this article, we take a look at the concept of cloud gaming, from how it works to its advantages and technical requirements. What’s more, given the huge number of services on offer, we’ll also take a look at the main platforms. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of cloud gaming.
- What is cloud gaming?
- How does cloud gaming work?
- The pros and cons of cloud gaming
- Which devices are compatible?
- Who is cloud gaming designed for?
- How to save on cloud gaming subscriptions?
- Choosing your platform
- The different cloud gaming services on offer
- Xbox Cloud Gaming
- Amazon Luna
- PlayStation Plus Premium
- Nvidia GeForce Now
- Cloud gaming services compared
- Conclusion: is cloud gaming worth it?
- FAQ
What is cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming is a growing phenomenon that aims to transform the way we play.
Cloud gaming, also known as gaming on demand or game streaming, is a way to play video games without needing a powerful computer or console. Instead of downloading and installing games on your device, you stream them from remote servers in data centers, similar to how you watch movies on Netflix.
It allows you to play the latest video games, in high definition, on simple devices ranging from PCs to Chromebooks and smartphones.
How does cloud gaming work?
The secret lies in hosting the games remotely on powerful servers. These send the data back to the players in real-time, who, thanks to streaming technology and high-performance Internet connections, can play the games with total fluidity. There’s no need for lengthy installation – you just click and play, which saves a considerable amount of time in a world where downloading a game alone can take several hours.
Here’s a breakdown of how cloud gaming works:
- Remote servers: The games run on powerful computers in data centers operated by cloud gaming companies like Google Stadia or Microsoft Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Streaming: The video and audio of the game are streamed over the internet to your device.
- Controls: You control the game by sending your button presses and joystick movements back to the remote server.
- Your device: All the processing is done on the remote server, so your device only needs to display the video and receive your controls.
The pros and cons of cloud gaming
The foremost advantage of cloud gaming is the opportunity to play the latest games without having to invest in cutting-edge hardware – if you have a good internet connection. Many devices are compatible, even those not initially designed for gaming.
Pros:
- No expensive hardware: You don’t need to buy a high-end gaming PC or console.
- Play anywhere: You can play games on any device with a good internet connection.
- Access to a large library of games: Cloud gaming services often offer a library of games that you can play for a subscription fee.
Cons:
- Reliance on internet: You need a fast and reliable internet connection to cloud game without lag.
- Limited game selection: The selection of games available on cloud gaming services may be smaller than what’s available for consoles or PCs.
- Data usage: Cloud gaming can use a lot of data, which could be an issue if you have a data cap.
Which devices are compatible?
The variety of devices compatible with cloud gaming depends largely on your chosen service. Where some, like PlayStation Plus, are very limited in options, others, like Xbox Cloud Gaming, can be launched from a simple web browser, Chromebook or Smart TV.
Here’s a quick general device rundown:
- PCs: Windows PCs can download games or use cloud streaming through services like Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Phones and tablets: Both Android and Apple devices can access cloud gaming libraries through apps.
- Gaming consoles: Even current Xbox consoles, like Series X/S and Xbox One, can access cloud-based games.
- Smart TVs: Select Samsung smart TVs (2020 and newer models) allow you to stream Xbox games directly.
- VR headsets: Some services, like Xbox Cloud Gaming, even extend to VR headsets, letting you play on a massive virtual screen.
The type of hardware you have available and the way you want to use cloud gaming will have a major impact on your choice of platform.
Who is cloud gaming designed for?
Cloud gaming appeals to several types of gamers. Firstly, it is aimed at casual gamers who prefer to avoid spending money on expensive equipment. Thanks to this technology, they can experiment with recent games without the need for specific hardware, simply by using a smartphone or tablet.
What’s more, cloud gaming is also attractive to on-the-go gamers. Those who are constantly on the move appreciate the ability to play wherever they are, without hardware constraints.
But this technology is also aimed at regular gamers who want to keep access to the latest releases without worrying about constant updates or storage space. In short, it is aimed at a broad audience, allowing everyone to explore the world of video games at their own convenience.
How to save on cloud gaming subscriptions?
Saving money while enjoying cloud gaming is possible if you follow certain steps. By making the right choices and with a bit of planning, you can save a lot of money! Here are a few ideas:
- Free trials: Many cloud gaming platforms offer discounted or even free trials. Amazon’s Luna+, for example, offers a 7-day free trial. Xbox Cloud Gaming offers the first 14 days for just £1.
- Subscription sharing: Some platforms, like Luna, allow you to share an account across a number of devices. By sharing your subscription and therefore its price, you can make significant savings.
- Sales and discount codes: take advantage of discount codes and wait for sales to get your subscription. Some platforms regularly offer discounts in order to build up their customer base. hotukdeals is your best bet for keeping up to date with the latest bargains. For example, you can keep up to date with all the best deals on PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass subscriptions.
- Commitment: Taking out a subscription with a commitment over several months generally reduces the monthly price. With Nvidia GeForce Now, the 6-month subscription reduces the monthly cost to £16.67 instead of £19.99.
Choosing your platform
We recently introduced you to Amazon Luna, but this is far from the only service offering a cloud gaming solution. Choosing a cloud gaming service can seem complex, given the multitude of offers available. So it’s important to get a clear picture of your needs so you can make the right choice. By considering essential criteria such as the game catalogue, the internet speed required, the possible game configurations and, of course, the price, you can decide which service is best suited to your needs. Xbox, Amazon, PlayStation or Nvidia… this section gives you an overview of all the offerings and their specific features.
The different cloud gaming services on offer
Several cloud gaming services offer a wide choice of games that can be played on a variety of devices without the need for a powerful computer. But what exactly are the differences between the providers?
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Suitable for a wide range of platforms, Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessible on your Windows/Mac PC, Android, tablets, connected TVs, Xbox consoles and even your iOS device. Xbox Cloud Gaming is accessible via a simple web browser!
The full catalogue of Xbox Game Pass games is available via the cloud. From Microsoft hits like Gears of War, Forza and Halo to games from independent studios. And don’t forget that you can play Fortnite for free via Xbox Cloud Gaming! Thanks to Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda, you can look forward to must-have titles such as Doom, Wolfenstein and Skyrim: The Elder Scrolls. The arrival of EA Play in March 2021 has further expanded the catalogue.
In terms of gameplay, a wide choice of controllers are compatible. So there’s no need to buy an Xbox controller. Note that Xbox games can only be played with a controller, as the keyboard/mouse combo is not natively supported.
In short:
- Subscription: £12.99/month (Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription)
- Catalogue: Over a hundred Xbox games and Xbox Game Pass games
- Devices: Xbox, PC, Smart TV, Smartphone, Tablet, Web browser
- Internet speed: 10 Mbps minimum required
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna, which has been rolled out gradually since September 2020, is now available in the UK. The platform is structured in a similar way to Amazon Prime Video, with different “channels” of games. The service is cross-platform and supports Fire TV, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, iPadOS and Smart TV, and is also available directly on the browser.
In addition to its free offer for Prime subscribers, Amazon Luna also offers the Luna + subscription at £8.99 per month with a 7-day free trial period. Titles such as Team Sonic Racing and Batman: Arkham Knight are all part of this ever-expanding catalogue. To extend your experience, here’s the Ubisoft+ partnership and offer at £14.99 per month. This offer gives you access to Ubisoft games as soon as they are released.
To play, a smartphone application may be all you need. Otherwise, many controllers are compatible. An Amazon Luna controller is also available for £49.99. The main advantage is reduced latency thanks to a direct connection to cloud servers.
In short:
- Subscription: Luna free with Prime / Luna+ at £8.99/month / pay publisher catalogues optional
- Catalogue: Evolving catalogue of around a hundred games. Other publishers’ catalogues are available as an option.
- Devices: PC, Smart TV, Smartphone, Tablet, Web browser
- Internet speed: 10 Mbps minimum required
PlayStation Plus Premium
Formerly known as PS Now, Sony’s cloud gaming service has now been transformed into an exclusive PlayStation Plus Premium offering. This new version includes additional benefits such as access to online multiplayer, a catalogue of over 400 PS5 and PS4 games available to download, exclusive discounts and more.
With a library of almost 500 games ranging from PS4 and PS3 to PS2, there’s plenty to choose from. For die-hard Sony fans, the offer remains attractive, with access to PlayStation exclusives such as Bloodborne, The Last of Us and Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection. However, some games may disappear from the catalogue, which is regularly updated with new releases.
Sony’s service favours owners of a PlayStation console or a Windows PC with a compatible controller. What’s more, the minimum configuration for a PC requires Windows 10, a 2 GHz Core i3, 300 MB of available storage, 2 GB of RAM, a sound card and a USB port.
In short:
- Subscription: £13.49/month (PlayStation Plus Premium subscription)
- Catalogue: Around 500 games, including PlayStation exclusives
- Devices: PlayStation and PC
- Internet speed: 5 Mbps minimum required
Nvidia GeForce Now
GeForce Now is a cloud gaming platform developed by Nvidia, the undisputed leader in graphics technology. It makes it possible to run resource-hungry games on devices that would normally be unable to run them. Compatible with PCs, Macs, smartphones, Shield TV, Chromebooks and web browsers.
The unique feature of the GeForce Now platform is the ability to stream games that players have already purchased. The service is compatible with several major game distributors, including Steam, the Epic Games Store, GOG, Origin and Ubisoft. To date, the catalogue of GeForce Now-compatible games exceeds 1,500 titles, with new games added every week.
The gameplay depends on the title you want to play. A large number of controllers are compatible, as is the keyboard/mouse combo for some games.
In short:
- Subscription: From £9.99 to £19.99/month. Free option available but with restrictions.
- Catalogue: over 1,500 titles (purchase at player’s own expense)
- Devices: Nvidia Shield TV, PC, Smart TV, Smartphone, Tablet, Web browser
- Internet speed: 15 Mbps minimum required
Cloud gaming services compared
| Features | Xbox Cloud Gaming | Amazon Luna | PlayStation Plus Premium | Nvidia GeForce Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £12.99/month (Xbox Game Pass Ultimate) | From £8.99 to £14.99/month (free option for Prime members) | £13.49/month (PlayStation Plus Premium) | Free option or from £9.99 to £19.99/month |
| Recommended internet speed | 10 Mbits/s minimum | 10 Mbits/s minimum | 5 Mbits/s minimum | 15 Mbits/s minimum |
| Compatibility | Web browser, Windows, Smartphone Xbox, Smart TV, VR Headset | Web browser, Windows, Smartphone, Smart TV, VR Headset | PS4, PS5, Windows | Nvidia Shield, Web browser, Windows, macOS, Smart TV |
| Controllers | Compatible controller | Compatible controller, smartphone | Compatible controller required | Compatible controller, keyboard/mouse (depending on the game) |
| Game catalogue | Game Pass catalogue and some from Xbox catalogue | Over 100 games and Ubisoft partnership | Around 500 games available | User must buy games themselves on platforms such as Steam, Epic Games, Ubisoft, EA |
Conclusion: is cloud gaming worth it?
Cloud gaming marks a new era in digital entertainment. Thanks to services such as Nvidia GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, PlayStation Plus Premium and Xbox Cloud Gaming, the way we think about video games is changing. These platforms, with their different specificities, can speak to every gamer. More than just a fad, cloud gaming is a revolution, changing the way we interact with the world of video games. You can play any game anywhere, on any device, as long as the internet connection is good.
FAQ
In most cases, access to cloud gaming is via a monthly subscription. Services such as Amazon Luna, Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now all offer subscription packages that give you access to a library of games that can be played via streaming.
Cloud gaming subscription costs can vary considerably from one service to another. Some, such as Amazon Luna, start at £8.99 with free options. With other available options, a subscription can also go up to £19.99.
No, you can’t play every game with cloud gaming. The catalogue of games available depends entirely on the cloud gaming service you use.
The choice of cloud gaming service largely depends on your personal preferences, your budget and the games you want to play.
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