Cloud gaming has quickly become, for want of a better term, a game-changer in the global gaming industry!
A core sector in the gaming as a service market, cloud gaming allows players to stream video games directly to their devices without the need for high-end hardware. It’s essentially mirroring the same technological shifts that have disrupted the TV and music industries via the likes of Netflix and Spotify.
In this article, we’ll go behind the cloud gaming revolution, taking a closer look at its impact and the role it’s playing in the future of video gaming.
Cloud Gaming Explained
Most of us are now using cloud technology in one form or another, whether it’s to carry out day to day work processes or simply to store digital memories. If you’re already familiar with services like Dropbox and Apple iCloud, you’ll know that they operate using powerful remote servers.
Cloud gaming, then, involves using remote servers to handle the multiple layers of complex processing involved in playing games, which would typically be done by consoles or gaming PCs. Instead of locally downloading or playing content, cloud gaming streams titles directly to a player’s device in real-time, meaning that whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet, or low-end PC, you can still access and play demanding games that would traditionally require more robust hardware.
The Major Players in Cloud Gaming
Unsurprisingly, several Big Tech names are leading the charge in cloud gaming, each providing global gamers with a unique ecosystem and approach.
Xbox Cloud Gaming, for instance, is integrated into Microsoft’s existing Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. It enables users to stream a wide selection of games directly to their devices, encompassing the brand’s own extensive game library and exclusive third-party titles.
It’s a similar story from Sony, whose PlayStation Plus subscription offers a cloud gaming library of PS2-PS4 titles and a selection of AAA games to users.
Amazon’s Luna delivers a slightly different take on gaming as a service. Tightly integrated with Twitch, Luna offers a unique channel-based subscription model that allows players to subscribe to specific channels like Ubisoft, for tailored gaming experiences. This model offers flexibility for gamers who want to curate their game libraries based on their interests.
Different again still is Nvidia’s GeForce Now. This service allows users to stream games they already own from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect etc. Unlike cloud gaming subscription services, which provide access to a curated library, GeForce Now focuses on letting users play their existing games on almost any device.
Impact on Players
Tech innovation is all well and good, but the gaming industry is subject to multiple cutting edge trends, so what is it about cloud gaming that makes it stick?
Cloud gaming is more than just the latest fad, it’s actively changing how consumers can access and play games, and delivering tangible benefits. From casual players to dedicated gamers, the advantages of the sector are transforming the gaming experience.
One of the most compelling benefits of cloud gaming is its hardware independence. Traditionally, playing the latest AAA games required investing in expensive consoles or gaming PCs. With cloud gaming, those barriers are removed. Players no longer need to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on high-performance hardware to enjoy top-tier games.
Keen gamers will know that not all digital gaming genres are tied to a specific platform. Browser-based games are accessible on both PC and Mac devices, while the online poker sector is enjoyed by desktop gamers and mobile players alike. The technology behind beginner-friendly formats like Sit & Go means there’s often a diverse group of players in any one tournament. However, traditionally the video gaming industry was more segregated.
Cloud gaming makes it possible to start a game on your laptop at home, continue it on your smartphone during your commute, and finish it on your next gen console later in the day. Not only that, but you can also play multiplayer titles with, or against, an array of other gamers all joining in on different devices. Gone are the days when gamers were split into PlayStation, Xbox or PC camps.
Moreover, cloud gaming also simplifies the process of content updates and maintenance. Developers can push updates, patches, and new content directly to the cloud, ensuring that all players have access to the latest version of the game without needing to download anything.
This streamlined process reduces the risk of players encountering bugs or exploits, as developers can address issues more quickly. For gamers, this means fewer interruptions and a more stable gaming experience.
