What is cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming, like Nvidia GeForce Now, is similar to streaming services for movies and TV shows. It works through remote servers that run the games and stream them directly to your device.
The term “Cloud Gaming” refers to playing a game remotely from the cloud. In almost all cases, the term “cloud” refers to a network of data centers filled to the brim with servers that deliver content to anyone who tries to access it. For a more familiar reference point, Netflix or any other streaming platform streams video from the cloud (although the Netflix game is a bit different).
Cloud Gaming does a similar thing. By subscribing to this service, you are buying access to a remote server equipped with hardware to run games. Then, after you launch a game, a video stream of that game is sent to your machine.
List of the best cloud gaming services
1. Nvidia GeForce Now : Reference in cloud gaming
Cloud Gaming is an innovative technology that allows players to enjoy their favorite games without requiring advanced hardware. One of the best cloud gaming platforms on the market right now is undoubtedly Nvidia. GeForce Now. This service stands out for the visual quality of its games, its wide compatibility with a large number of games, and the presence of a free membership plan. Here is a more detailed analysis of the strengths and areas for improvement of Nvidia GeForce Now.
Nvidia GeForce Now highlights
- Smooth and responsive experience: Nvidia GeForce Now provides an exceptionally smooth and responsive cloud gaming experience, almost making you forget you're playing remotely.
- Free plan: Unlike many cloud gaming services, Nvidia GeForce Now offers a free plan. Although it limits game session time, it allows you to try out the service without spending a cent.
Aspects to be improved
- Games not included: One of the drawbacks of Nvidia GeForce Now is that most games are not included in the service. So you'll have to buy them separately, which can increase the overall cost.
- Occasional incompatibility: Although the Nvidia GeForce Now service has broad game compatibility, sometimes there are inconsistencies between games and platforms.
Nvidia GeForce Now pricing
- Currently, you can sign up for Nvidia GeForce Now for only $9.99 per month through Nvidia.
Nvidia GeForce Now is a great option for those who want to get started in cloud gaming.
While the cost of gaming may be a drag for some, the fact that you're not tied to the service in the long run, with the ability to play these games locally on your own PC, adds a great deal of flexibility.
So in summary, if you are new to the world of PC gaming or simply curious to discover cloud gaming, we recommend that you start with Nvidia GeForce Now, at the very low cost of free.
2. Xbox Cloud Gaming : The best quality-price ratio
The Xbox Cloud Gaming, previously known as Project xCloud, is a service offered by Microsoft. It's part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which offers access to an impressive catalog of games for a monthly subscription.
It's a great choice for video game players looking for value for money and a constantly renewed game library. Let's take a closer look at RTX in detail what this service has to offer.
Xbox Cloud Gaming highlights
- Impressive game library: With over 350 games accessible, the variety and quality of Xbox Cloud Gaming's game catalog is undeniably impressive. Famous titles such as Skyrim, Battlefield V, Deep Rock Galactic or Boyfriend Dungeon are available.
- “Out of the box” functionality: Xbox Cloud Gaming is designed to work without the need for special configuration, offering a simplified user experience.
Aspects to be improved
- Impact of video compression: One of the drawbacks of this service is video compression, which can significantly affect the visual quality of the game.
- Game rotation: Not all games stay in the library indefinitely. So some titles may disappear, which can be disappointing if you have favorites.
Xbox Cloud Gaming pricing
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which includes access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, is available for $14.99 per month at Microsoft.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is an attractive offering, especially for players who value variety in games. Despite some inconveniences such as video compression, the service offers access to an impressive library of games for a relatively modest price. If you're looking for a cloud gaming service that offers value for money and a wide selection of games, Xbox Cloud Gaming could be the perfect choice for you.
3. Amazon Luna : The best experience for casual players
Amazon Luna is an Amazon initiative in the gaming industry. This cloud gaming service is distinguished by its intuitive interface, its catalog of niche games and its reasonable prices. Amazon Luna also stands out for the way in which it organizes its game offer, by dividing them into different “channels” that can be subscribed to separately. Let's find out in detail what this service has to offer.
Amazon Luna highlights
- Intuitive interface: The Amazon Luna interface is very user-friendly, allowing easy navigation and simplified use.
- Video game sharing: Some video games can be played with friends who don't subscribe to Luna, which is an undeniable advantage for group gaming sessions.
- Specific video game offer: Amazon Luna offers excellent value for money for access to some very specific games.
Aspects to be improved
Slightly dated video game library: Amazon Luna's video game library includes titles that are already a few years old, which could disappoint players looking for the latest releases.
- Multiple costs: The system of separate paid “channels” can quickly drive up the bill if you want to access a wide range of games.
Amazon Luna pricing
- Amazon Luna is available for $9.99 per month on amazon.
Amazon Luna is an attractive option for casual gamers, offering a user-friendly interface and access to a selection of niche video games for a reasonable price. Its game library, while slightly dated, offers a good mix of retro and family titles, making it an appealing option for games with family or friends. If you're looking for a casual cloud gaming experience with a specific gaming offering, Amazon Luna could be the perfect fit for you.
4. Shadow : Cloud Gaming Pioneer
Shadow is a cloud gaming service that stands out for its unique approach: it offers users a complete virtual PC that can be accessed from any device.
Main characteristics
- Seamless experience: Thanks to Shadow's advanced technology, players can enjoy a smooth and responsive gaming experience regardless of the power of their local machine.
- Broad compatibility: With Shadow, users have access to their own virtual PC, allowing them to play any PC game, regardless of the distribution platform (Steam, Epic Games Store, etc.).
- Accessibility: Because Shadow is a virtual PC, it can be accessed from any device - PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet. This provides great flexibility for users to play when they want, where they want.
Shadow prices
- The cost of a Shadow subscription depends on the performance level you choose. Prices start at €12.99/month.
However, Shadow doesn't come without its drawbacks. In particular, it is necessary to take into account the Internet bandwidth required to maintain a smooth and latency-free gaming experience.
5. EA Play : The great option for players
EA Play is a video game subscription platform developed by Electronic Arts. It offers unlimited access to a vast library of the publisher's popular video games, as well as other exclusive benefits. It's proving to be a great option for players who particularly enjoy Electronic Arts titles.
Key Features of EA Play
- Access to the EA Video Game Library: EA Play offers unlimited access to a library of over 40 video games from the publisher. Among these titles are popular video games such as FIFA, Battlefield, The Sims, and many more.
- Exclusive Perks: EA Play members also get in-game rewards, exclusive content, and early demos.
- Early Game Trials: Subscribers have the opportunity to try out new EA video games for up to 10 hours prior to their official release.
- EA Purchase Discounts: Members get 10% off EA digital purchases, including full video games, add-ons, DLCs, and more.
Pricing
Compatibility and Accessibility
- EA Play is available on a variety of platforms including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Origin and Steam. So it's easy to access your favorite EA video games regardless of your preferred system.
Combining this with cross-platform accessibility, EA Play continues to grow in popularity in the cloud gaming world.
6. Google Stadia : Cloud Gaming by Google
Google Stadia is Google's cloud gaming streaming platform, offering a way to play high-quality video games without the need for expensive hardware.
Main characteristics
- Visual quality: Stadia stands out for its exceptional visual quality, being able to stream video games in 4K with HDR support.
- Without expensive hardware: Because it's a cloud gaming streaming platform, users don't need to buy expensive consoles or PCs. All they need is a screen and a stable internet connection.
- Instant: With Stadia, you can start playing video games almost instantly, with no downloads or updates.
Google Stadia pricing
- Google Stadia offers two levels of membership. Stadia Pro costs €9.99 per month and offers additional perks like free video games and discounts.
However, the availability of video games on Stadia can be limited compared to other cloud gaming platforms, and the quality of streaming depends heavily on the quality of your Internet connection.
7. PlayStation Plus : The rising newcomer
PlayStation Plus is Sony's cloud gaming service, the successor to the old PlayStation Now service.
Although Sony has clearly put their heart into the development of this subscription-based service, there is still a long way to go to compete with market leaders. However, it does offer access to a fairly large number of games, including numerous PlayStation exclusives ranging from the original PlayStation to the PlayStation 4. Let's decipher what PlayStation Plus has to offer.
PlayStation Plus highlights
- Spectacular visual quality: Video games offer graphics that can be absolutely breathtaking.
- High-quality video game library: The video game library included in the subscription includes lots of high-quality titles.
Aspects to be improved
- User experience and application interface: The user interface needs a complete redesign to be more user-friendly and intuitive.
- Connection stability: Connection stability issues have been identified, and there is a lack of troubleshooting tools to resolve them.
PlayStation Plus pricing
- The PlayStation Now price is not mentioned in the original text, so it is recommended that you check the PlayStation official site for the most recent rates.
Although PlayStation Plus is still in a growth phase and needs significant improvements in terms of user interface and connection stability, it offers access to an impressive video game library with remarkable visual quality.
If you're already a PlayStation Plus Premium member, it's worth testing out the PC app.
Things to consider when choosing a Cloud Gaming service
Navigating the world of cloud gaming can be confusing, so we've identified three key criteria to make your choice easier: technical requirements, the game library, and your own expectations.
1. Technical Setup Requirements
- Internet connection speed: Cloud gaming services, like Nvidia GeForce Now, require a minimum internet speed of 10 Mbps. However, a speed of 20 Mbps or more is recommended for a smooth gaming experience.
- Connection type: Wired connections are preferred, but if you use Wi-Fi, some services may have specific requirements for your network.
- Data consumption: Like high-quality video streaming, cloud gaming consumes a lot of data. If your Internet provider has data limits, be aware of this consumption.
- Necessary equipment: If your device can handle high-quality Netflix or Hulu streaming, it should be able to handle cloud gaming.
- Gamepad: Some streaming platforms, like Xbox Cloud Gaming and PlayStation Plus on PC, require a controller to play their games.
2. Game library
Game Selection: Each cloud gaming service, like Nvidia GeForce Now, has its own game selection. Check to see if your favorite video games are available on the streaming platform you're considering.
- What's new: If you want to stay up to date with the latest game releases, take note of which services are quickly adding new items to their game catalog.
3. Cloud Gaming Expectations
- Your needs: Think about your expectations. Are you looking to play while on the go, discover the world of gaming without investing in expensive hardware, or play specific video games with friends?
At the end of the day, the best cloud gaming service will be the one that best meets your individual needs and expectations.
4. Average monthly cost
The cost of cloud gaming varies depending on the service chosen. Here are a few examples:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: $14.99 per month
- Nvidia GeForce Now: Free at $19.99 per month
- Amazon Luna: $4.99 to $17.99 per month
- Shadow: $32.99 per month
- PlayStation Now: $17.99 per month
5. Equipment
To play video games in the cloud, you can use:
- A personal computer
- A game console
- A smartphone
- A tablet
- A web browser
- A smart TV
In conclusion, cloud gaming offers unprecedented flexibility and accessibility to players. With this guide, you should be able to choose the cloud gaming service that best fits your needs.
How does Cloud Gaming work?
How cloud gaming works can be described through the following steps:
- Video game storage on a remote server : All video games you play via cloud gaming are stored on a remote server rather than on your local device. That means you don't have to worry about downloads or installations.
- Sending orders to the server : When you play a game, you send commands from your device (for example, a computer, tablet, or smartphone) to the remote server. These commands may include actions such as moving your character or triggering an in-game event.
- Server update : The remote server updates the status of the game based on your commands. It calculates the new positions of the characters, the effects of the actions you initiated, and any other necessary updates.
- Streaming the game to your device : The server then streams the game to your device continuously. It's essentially a live video stream of the game. That's why a fast internet connection is crucial for a smooth cloud gaming experience.
- Display on your device : Your device receives the video stream from the server and displays it on your screen.
- Minimum latency : The entire process, from sending commands to the server to displaying game updates on your screen, takes a few milliseconds. Low latency is critical for a good cloud gaming experience, as any noticeable lag can disrupt gameplay.
Cloud gaming allows you to play high-quality video games on any Internet-enabled device, without the need for expensive gaming hardware or large game downloads. The cloud gaming server does all the heavy lifting, and your device just receives the video stream and sends your commands to the server.
Security & Confidentiality
1. Cloud Gaming Security Landscape
Navigating the world of cloud gaming involves being aware of security issues. Services like Nvidia GeForce Now manage user data on remote servers, and they need to ensure robust security measures.
- Data Encryption : Nvidia GeForce Now uses advanced encryption protocols to secure user data as it is transferred between game servers and the user's device.
- Server protection : Nvidia GeForce Now servers are protected by firewalls and other security measures to counter cyberattacks.
- User vigilance : The security risks of cloud gaming are similar to those of other online services, requiring constant vigilance on the part of users.
In short, security in cloud gaming requires special attention and appropriate protective measures by businesses and users.
2. Confidentiality
In the interconnected world of cloud gaming, the confidentiality of user data is a major concern. Services like Nvidia GeForce Now collect user data, raising questions about how that information is used and protected.
- Information Gathering : Nvidia GeForce Now, like other cloud gaming services, collects information about game history and user preferences to improve its services and provide personalized recommendations.
- Confidentiality policies : To maintain user privacy, Nvidia GeForce Now has a detailed privacy policy that describes how user information is collected, used, and protected.
- User understanding : It is essential for users to read these privacy policies carefully to understand how their information is managed.
In conclusion, privacy is as important as security in the cloud gaming market. Users should be careful to choose a cloud gaming service that respects their privacy and ensures effective data protection.
Future of Cloud Gaming
The concept of cloud gaming, as revolutionary as it may seem, has everything it takes to become the future of video games. Let's imagine a world where you can play your favorite video games from any device - smartphone, tablet, or laptop (Mac included!) - all this seems perfectly feasible with the advent of cloud gaming.
- Accessibility : eliminates the need to invest in the latest game console, graphics card, or RAM upgrade.
- Ease of use: With a simple subscription to a cloud gaming service like Nvidia GeForce Now, you get access to a powerful machine, without the associated maintenance constraints.
- Friendliness : Playing a game is as easy and straightforward as watching a series on Netflix.
Challenges ahead
- Connection requirements : Cloud gaming currently requires a fast and stable internet connection, preferably by fiber optic and via an Ethernet cable to optimize the experience.
- Latency time : A delay or latency is always noticeable when using a cloud gaming service, which can be annoying for some purist players.
Potential
- Latency reduction : 5G promises to reduce response time to 1 millisecond, compared to 10 with current technologies.
- Impact on video games : As 3G contributed to the rise of music streaming and 4G to video streaming, 5G could well be the catalyst for video game streaming.
Despite current challenges, the future of cloud gaming is full of promise. With the impending advent of 5G, it is likely that we will see a revolution in the way we consume video games, facilitating high-quality access to a greater number of people. “
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming is a relatively new gaming method that comes with a lot of pros and cons. It is therefore important to understand its different facets to decide whether it is right for you or not.
Benefits
Here are some of the key benefits it can offer:
- Instant access : No more waiting for downloads or updates to play your favorite titles in the cloud, as they're always available. As soon as you connect your controller, keyboard, or mouse, it's time to play.
- Save space on your computer : Instead of having multiple copies of each game on your hard drive (or multiple consoles), everything is stored in one place with little space. This saves you time and money as there are no installation costs associated with this system.
- Absence of required hardware : You don't need to buy a computer or console; all you need is an Internet connection and a controller. You can play video games without downloading them to your device.
- Play on any device with an internet connection : This means you can play your video games from anywhere, whether at home or on the go.
- Remote access : With cloud gaming, you can play video games on your phone or tablet, even if you don't have a gaming device.
Disadvantages
Despite its advantages, it also has some disadvantages to consider:
- High latency: This is the main disadvantage of cloud gaming. Since it relies on servers to function, there is a slight delay between when you press a button and when the action occurs on the screen.
- Trouble finding your game: If you have an extensive library and want to play something different, it can be difficult to find it in your cloud account.
- Reliability is sometimes limited: Cloud gaming depends on the Internet to function properly, so everything stops if your connection is slow or drops completely. If this happens on a regular basis, it may be best to stick to physical copies of the games.
FAQs
What is the best free cloud gaming service?
There aren't a lot of free Cloud Gaming services out there, and the ones that are available aren't very good. Cloud Gaming's offering is expensive, so if you find a service that's allegedly free, it's best not to go near it.
What is the best cloud gaming computer?
The best Cloud Gaming PC has a fast processor and lots of video memory. The best Cloud Gaming - Shadow and GeForce Now - offer both, allowing you to play video games even if they're high-end.
Does NVIDIA GeForce NOW support 4K gaming or ray tracing?
At the time of my last apprenticeship (September 2021), NVIDIA GeForce NOW did not officially support 4K streaming. The maximum resolution was limited to 1080p.
However, NVIDIA had announced that it was working on 4K support for GeForce NOW, so it's possible that has changed since then.
When it comes to ray tracing, yes, some games on NVIDIA GeForce NOW support ray tracing. This feature is available to GeForce NOW Priority service members.
Does GeForce NOW work on every device?
GeForce NOW is designed to work on a variety of devices. You can use the service on Windows PCs, Macs, Shield TVs, Chromebooks, Android smartphones and tablets, and iPhones and iPads using browser-based streaming technology. However, it's important to note that performance may vary depending on the quality of your Internet connection and the ability of your device to handle high-quality game streaming.
What is the difference between GeForce NOW and other services?
GeForce NOW differs from many other gaming streaming services in a number of ways:
- Game library: Unlike services like Google Stadia or Xbox Cloud Gaming that require you to buy games specific to their streaming platform, GeForce NOW allows you to play games you already own on streaming platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and uPlay.
- Performances: GeForce NOW offers high performance, including ray tracing support for select games and for Priority members.
- Device compatibility: As mentioned earlier, GeForce NOW can be used on a wide variety of devices, making it very flexible.
Why did Google Stadia close?
Google Stadia has experienced several difficulties since its launch which have led to the cessation of its internal development of video games accessible via web browser.
However, as of my last update in September 2021, the Google Stadia service itself has not closed. It continues to function as a streaming platform for playing video games developed by streaming third parties.
Here are some of the reasons why Google decided to close its internal Stadia video game development studios:
- High cost of video game development: Creating AAA video games from scratch is a very expensive and risky process. This requires massive investments of time and money. Google Stadia may have felt that the return on investment was not enough to justify these costs.
- Intense competition: The cloud gaming market has become very competitive, with major players like Microsoft (with xCloud), Sony (with PlayStation Now), and Nvidia (with GeForce Now) already having a significant presence and a solid video game catalog.
- Slow adoption: Despite initial enthusiasm, consumer adoption of Stadia has been slower than expected. Issues such as high bandwidth requirements, gaming latency, and the absence of some popular titles have hampered consumer adoption of the service.
- Change in strategy: By shutting down its internal studios, Google signalled a shift in strategy toward operating Stadia as a streaming platform for video games developed by third parties. This allows Google to continue to offer a cloud service without having to assume the costs and risks associated with internal game development.
It is important to note that despite the closure of its internal studios, Google has indicated that it will continue to support the Stadia service and improve it for its current and future users.
Conclusion
The Cloud Gaming service is still in its infancy, but it has made enough progress for a few quality services to be available. Shadow is at the top of the commercially available Cloud Gaming options, but if you're lucky enough to get a GeForce Now beta key, we recommend it. As for the other options, they have their strengths, but they are nothing compared to the best.
Blacknut has a wonderful interface and decent streaming quality, but doesn't have a solid library. PlayStation Now for PlayStation 5 offers great added value but requires some adjustments in terms of usability. Finally, Vortex is doing a good part of the way with supported video games and ease of use, but is falling apart in terms of performance.
What Cloud Gaming service are you going to sign up for? Are you ready to wait for GeForce Now?
