Is Cloud Gaming the future of video games ?

But how does Cloud Gaming work ?

But now, with Cloud Gaming, the game is executed on the servers of the service provider, within their own data center. Thanks to the Internet, images are transmitted in real-time to your screen, in the same way you watch a movie on Netflix for example.

To be honest, the concept of Cloud Gaming isn’t as recent as that. Indeed, in 2010, the project had already been put on the table, but technical constraints had so far prevented such a service from working properly : indeed, users’ internet connection was too slow and unstable, which spoiled the user experience. But today, with the development of high-speed internet and fiber in many places, Cloud Gaming is entirely possible.

But What’s the Point of Cloud Gaming ?

If you already have a console and play it regularly in your living room, you don’t necessarily need to abandon it in favor of a cloud service. However, streaming can be very useful when you’re on the move and want to play any game at any time. Indeed, you’ll be able to play very demanding games, even on a smartphone. You won’t have to spend thousands of euros on a gaming PC : you can take advantage of the computing power of the servers of the company providing you with games, and you’ll be able to run games at maximum quality. You can also say goodbye to loading times and launch a game without having to wait for many minutes.

For console players, these new services will allow you to access more games without necessarily buying them each time, because for some, you don’t play them for very long, and it’s not worth buying the game. Indeed, these platforms will allow you to test games thanks to the subscriptions offered.

But are there any drawbacks?

But there are also problems on the side of the companies offering these services: indeed, the operating costs of the servers are very high and the investment is not necessarily profitable. There is no economic model that allows for complete profitability.

Another problem is the environmental impact. Indeed, the numerous servers of these services are very “energy-intensive” and this will also attract new customers who don’t have a console, thus boosting the number of players on the platforms. On the other hand, this also allows for a reduction in the number of consoles, whose manufacturing is very polluting, knowing that their components are not recyclable… Console players are not going to abandon their high-performance console unless it’s to take the service in addition, but it’s rather new players who will arrive, who were perhaps held back by the price of consoles.

What are the Cloud Gaming offers on the market ?

PlayStation Now

This is the service developed by Sony for its famous PlayStation (4 and 5).

The monthly subscription costs €9.99 per month and provides access to a wide catalog of games. Moreover, it allows you to replay PS3 games. However, the service is intended as a complement for Sony console players. But it is also possible to play on a PC with their dedicated application.

Strengths

• Firstly, connection test to check your eligibility for the Cloud Gaming service. You need at least 90 Mb/s to enjoy a pleasant gaming experience.
• Secondly, a good catalog with popular, indie, retro games…
• Thirdly, possibility to download games locally in order not to depend on an unstable connection.

Weaknesses

• However, resolution limited to 720p (except with local download).
• And games not available on Mac.

Google Stadia

But Google has also ventured into Cloud Gaming. So far, no great success has been achieved. Because the pricing grid is unreadable.

The subscription only allows access to a few games each month. But to get good games, you’ll have to pay up to €60 for some (which can be found cheaper outside the platform). On the other hand, there is a lack of communication to inform players of upcoming releases on the platform.

On the other hand, Stadia is very easy to use and doesn’t require any hardware to play. Additionally, you’ll need a controller (from any console or the one sold by Google).

Strengths

• No obligation to subscribe to a monthly plan (you can choose and buy the games you want to play instead of paying for a subscription that gives you access to certain games you might not like).
• Upcoming arrival of Ubisoft+ in the subscription, which will allow playing many well-known games from the French studio, such as Watch Dogs 2, Far Cry 5, or Assassin’s Creed Valhalla …
• Google’s promise to expand its catalog in the coming months.
• Ease of use.
• Option to purchase a controller and a Chromecast Ultra dedicated to video games.

Weaknesses

• A somewhat limited catalog.
• Video games that are too expensive compared to the competition.

Given the service’s lack of significant success, one might question the future of the platform…

Xbox Game Pass (formerly Xcloud)

This is the service set up by Microsoft. This pass allows you to play numerous Xbox One games via streaming.

For now, the service is only available on Android devices. Indeed, it’s impossible to play on an Apple device (due to Apple’s policy). The subscription costs €12.99 and presents itself as a true Netflix for video games, with a complete catalog of dedicated games.

Strengths

• A complete catalog that functions like a true Netflix-style service with games of all genres.
• Compatible with Android phones.
• Three options available: console pass, PC pass, and Ultimate pass, which provides access to numerous games, allows playing EA Play service, and includes the Xbox Live Gold subscription, essential for online play on Xbox.
• Ability to download games and play offline.

Weaknesses

• Requirement to have an Xbox Live Gold account for online play.
• A relatively expensive subscription.

Nvidia GeForce Now

This is the Cloud Gaming service launched by Nvidia in February 2020. This platform provides access to a selection of compatible games from Steam, Uplay, or Battle.net game stores …

This allows players to access games they already own. However, to enjoy other games, they must be purchased, and the paid subscription does not include access to a game catalog.

Who Will Be the New Players in the Cloud Gaming Market ?

First, it will be Amazon with Amazon Luna. Indeed, the company is already heavily involved in video games, notably with Amazon Prime Gaming, which provides access to exclusives, discounts, and other perks in video games. It’s not unusual for Amazon to turn to this market, especially because they have numerous servers with Amazon Web Services. Amazon Luna already exists for $5.99 per month. For now, no announcement has been made for France. The existing subscription in the United States gives access to numerous video games (over 100). As Amazon owns Twitch, this will allow playing games directly that one watches live by clicking a button.

Netflix could also enter this sector : for now, nothing is official, but several people have spotted job postings related to video games to set up a platform that would strongly resemble Apple Arcade. This is not a bad idea for Netflix, as everyone knows Netflix. Integrating video games would allow diversifying the offer. Netflix, having a big budget, could even offer original games that might have a connection with their movies and series.

Conclusion

So, Cloud Gaming is a sector of the future that continues to evolve. However, in the article, I didn’t mention all the services because there are so many. But I presented the main and most well-known ones. Therefore, don’t hesitate to research the subject online. Because there are many services that I didn’t mention. Nevertheless, for me, Cloud Gaming is very interesting and will allow us to own many video games without spending $60 each time. In conclusion, the development of high-speed internet will enable all these platforms to offer a high-performance service, which could almost make us forget our good old console.