Review of the best cloud gaming services

What is cloud gaming and how it evolved

Cloud gaming is a technology that allows video games to be played on a remote server rather than on a local device. Instead of running the game on their PC or console, the user receives a video stream of the game over the Internet. Thus, resource-intensive games can be played even on a weak laptop or smartphone.

The main advantages of playing games on the server:

1. Accessibility. Players do not need to buy expensive consoles or upgrade their computer.
2. Mobility. If you have a stable Internet connection, you can play anywhere.
3. Updates. Users always have access to the latest updates and new games.

The idea of cloud gamification dates back to the 2000s. One of the first companies to introduce it was G-cluster. In 2003, it demonstrated the possibility of streaming games to devices with limited computing capabilities. And in 2008, OTOY introduced the world to the first version of its cloud platform, which allowed users to run applications and games on remote servers.

A little later, OnLive (2010) and Gaikai (2012) emerged as the first major players in the market. OnLive was the first major сloud gaming service released for commercial use. It offered users the ability to play games over the Internet on a variety of devices (PCs, Macs, set-top box TVs), and provided access to a library of games without the need for download and installation. But due to issues such as signal latency and high maintenance costs, OnLive ceased operations in 2015 and sold its patents to Sony.

Gaikai's developers focused on providing instant access to games through web browsers, allowing users to experience games before purchasing. Gaikai's service was also of interest to Sony, which acquired it in 2012.

In 2014, Sony launched PlayStation Now, a cloud-based service that allowed players to stream games from PlayStation consoles to different devices. The service was the first significant commercial success in cloud gaming, providing access to a large library of games for PlayStation 3 and 4 consoles.

The following year, NVIDIA introduced its own cloud gaming service, Grid, later renamed GeForce Now. The service's innovative approach was to allow users to play their own games that they had already purchased on other platforms (such as Steam).

In 2019, Google launched its own cloud gaming service, Stadia, which allowed users to play games in 4K without having to download or install them on a PC. And in 2020, Microsoft launched its own cloud service, xCloud, which allowed players to run games from its large library across devices.

Popular cloud gaming services

The following is a selection of seven proven cloud gaming services that are worth trying.

1. NVIDIA GeForce Now

This cloud gaming service does not provide games directly, but allows you to stream them from various gaming platforms (Steam, Epic Games Store, Uplay, and others). The service also includes access to more than 80 free games, including the very popular Fortnite. NVIDIA Cloud Gaming is available on a variety of operating systems (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Chromebooks). It supports RTX (ray tracing) mode, which significantly improves graphics quality when playing dynamic PC projects. There is a free plan that allows you to use the service with certain restrictions.

Pros:

• Provides high quality graphics and low latency.
• Provides the ability to play games already purchased.
• Offers regular updates and service improvements.

Cons:

• Free plan has session time limitations.
• Does not support all games due to license restrictions.

2. Amazon Luna

The service from Amazon offers a flexible subscription system where you can choose channels (Ubisoft+, Family, Retro and others) with games that interest you (Control, Blasphemous, Metal Slug 3, Space Ace, Final Fight and many others). Tight integration with Twitch allows you to watch streams and play at the same time. A special Luna controller is responsible for reducing lag.

Pros:

• Integrates easily with other Amazon services.
• Provides flexibility in content selection.
• Supports a variety of devices.

Cons:

• Not available in all countries.
• Requires additional costs for different channels.

3.Shadow.Tech

The service, which formerly operated under the Shadow brand, provides access to a powerful Windows-based PC over the Internet for any task, not just cloud gameplay. Support for VR technology allows you to play virtual reality games. Install any software you want and enjoy a smooth, lag-free experience.

Pros:

• Provides full control over the remote PC.
• Supports a variety of devices.
• Provides high quality graphics and performance.

Cons:

• Costs more compared to other services.
• Requires a fast and stable Internet connection.

4. PlayStation Plus Premium

This is an updated subscription service from Sony that combines PlayStation Now and PlayStation Plus. It supports both PlayStation and PC. Users can play classic PS2, PS3 and PS4 games on PS4, PS5 and PC and also have access to exclusive games from Sony Studios.

Pros:

• Has a large library of high quality games.
• Adds new games on a regular basis.
• Integrates with the PlayStation ecosystem.

Cons:

• Offers higher price for premium subscription.
• Platform support is limited.

5. Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud)

Through integration with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, this service from Microsoft provides access to a large library of Game Pass games (more than 300 games of different genres). It allows you to play, including continuing the game, on different devices (smartphones, tablets) and platforms (Windows, Android, iOS, Xbox consoles).

Pros:

• Offers a large library of games at a fixed price.
• Constantly adds new games, including exclusives.
• Provides integration with Microsoft.

Cons:

• Requires Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
• Streaming quality varies by region.

6. Boosteroid

This is one of the first cloud gaming services with servers in Ukraine. Boosteroid servers are also located in a number of European countries (Romania, Italy, Slovakia, France, Spain, UK, Sweden, Serbia) and the USA. The service supports different operating systems (Windows, macOS, Android), allows easy connection of game accounts and provides low latency for regional users.

Pros:

• Subscription is offered at an affordable price.
• Provides high quality streaming in supported regions.
• Supports Ukrainian language.

Cons:

• Has a smaller library of games compared to competitors.
• Users need to have their own copies of games.

7. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

This service from Microsoft allows users to play on PCs, smartphones and tablets, including continuing the game from another device. Progress in the game is saved on all platforms. The subscription provides access to a large library of more than 100 regularly updated games, including widely popular and exclusive games, for Xbox, PC and the cloud.

Pros:

• Offers a large selection of games of all genres.
• The catalog is constantly updated.
• On the day of release offers access to top new releases at no extra charge.

Cons:

• Some games are only available on specific platforms (for example, only for PC or Xbox).
• Over time, games disappear from the catalog.
• Not all games support Ukrainian language or localization.

How to choose a cloud service for gaming

The following tips will help you make an informed choice of a cloud gaming service:

1. Make sure the service works in your area and offers acceptable connection quality.
2. Decide how much subscription money you are willing to spend per month.
3. Check if the service is compatible with your device or OS before subscribing.
4. Ask if the library of the service has games of the genres you are a fan of.
5. Make sure you have a stable and fast Internet connection (recommended speed is at least 15 Mbps for 720p and 25 Mbps for 1080p).

And a few more tips for an optimal cloud gaming experience:

• Use a wired connection to reduce latency and avoid interference.
• Adjust the streaming quality to your Internet speed.
• Close background apps to free up your device's resources and improve performance.