➤ 7 Best Cloud Gaming Services (2024)

What is cloud gaming?

Cloud gaming, like Nvidia GeForce Now, is similar to streaming services for movies and TV shows. It works thanks to 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 point of reference, 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 buy access to a remote server equipped with hardware to run games. Then, after launching a game, a video stream of that game is sent to your machine.

List of the best cloud gaming services

1. Nvidia GeForce Now

The gold standard in cloud gaming

Cloud Gaming is an innovative technology that allows players to enjoy their favorite games without requiring cutting-edge hardware. One of the best cloud gaming platforms on the market right now is without a doubt nvidia GeForce Now. This service stands out for the visual quality of its games, its broad 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, making you almost forget you're playing remotely.
Free plan: Unlike many cloud gaming services, Nvidia GeForce Now offers a free plan. While it limits game session time, it allows you to try out the service without spending a cent.

Aspects to improve

Games not included: One disadvantage of Nvidia GeForce Now is that most games are not included in the service. So you'll need to buy them separately, which can increase the overall cost.
Occasional incompatibility: Although the Nvidia GeForce Now service has broad game compatibility, there are sometimes inconsistencies between games and platforms.

Nvidia GeForce Now pricing

Currently, you can sign up for Nvidia GeForce Now for just $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 the games may be a hindrance for some, the fact that you are not tied to the service in the long term, with the option of playing 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 game library that's always fresh. Let's take a closer look at RTX 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” feature: Xbox Cloud Gaming is designed to work without the need for any special configuration, providing a simplified user experience.

Aspects to improve

Impact of video compression: One of the disadvantages 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 a variety of games. Despite some inconveniences like video compression, the service offers access to an impressive game library 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 ideal choice for you.

Try it now.

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 it organizes its game offer, 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: Amazon Luna's interface is very user-friendly, allowing easy navigation and simplified use.
Video game sharing: Some video games are playable with friends who don't subscribe to Luna, which is an undeniable asset for group gaming sessions.
Specific video game offer: Amazon Luna offers excellent value for money for access to some very specific games.

Aspects to improve

Slightly dated video game library: Amazon Luna's video game library includes titles that are already a few years old, which may 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 priced at $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 attractive option for parties with family or friends. If you are looking for a relaxed cloud gaming experience with a specific video game offer, Amazon Luna might just be the ideal choice 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 of the devices.

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: Since 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 pricing

The cost of a Shadow subscription depends on the level of performance you choose. Prices start at €12.99/month.

However, Shadow does not 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

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 proves to be a great option for players who particularly enjoy Electronic Arts titles.

EA Play Key Features

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 like FIFA, Battlefield, The Sims, and many more.
Exclusive Benefits: EA Play members also get in-game rewards, exclusive content, and early demos.
Early Game Trials: Subscribers have the option to try new EA video games up to 10 hours before they're officially released.
EA Purchase Discounts: Members get 10% off EA digital purchases, including full video games, add-ons, DLC, and more.

Rates

Compatibility and Accessibility

EA Play is available on various 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 no matter what system you prefer.

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 benefits like free video games and discounts.

However, the availability of video games on Stadia may be limited compared to other cloud gaming platforms, and the quality of streaming depends greatly on the quality of your Internet connection.

7. PlayStation Plus

The newcomer on the rise

PlayStation Plus is Sony's cloud gaming service, the successor to the former PlayStation Now service.

Although Sony has clearly put its heart and soul into the development of this subscription service, there is still a long way to go to compete with the market leaders. However, it does offer access to a fairly large number of games, including numerous PlayStation exclusivities 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 quality that can be absolutely breathtaking.
Quality video game library: The video game library included in the subscription includes numerous high-quality titles.

Aspects to improve

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 fix them.

PlayStation Plus pricing

PlayStation Now pricing isn't mentioned in the original text, so it's recommended that you check the PlayStation official site for the most current rates.

Although PlayStation Plus is still growing 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 trying out the PC application. For a more detailed analysis, do not hesitate to consult our Full PlayStation Plus review.

Things to consider when choosing a cloud gaming service

Navigating the world of cloud gaming can be confusing, which is why we've identified three key criteria to make your choice easier: technical requirements, the game library, and your own expectations.

1. Technical configuration required

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 higher 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.
Hardware Needed: 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

streaming et ludothèque du Xbox Game Pass (Halo Infinite , Forza Horizon, etc)

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 video game releases, note 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, to discover the world of gaming without investing in expensive hardware, or to play specific video games with friends?

Ultimately, 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. Hardware Needed

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 suits your needs.

How does Cloud Gaming work?

How cloud gaming works can be described through the following steps:

Storing video games on a remote server : Any 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 commands 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 can include actions like moving your character or triggering an in-game event.
Server update : The remote server updates the game status according to your commands. It calculates new character positions, the effects of actions you've initiated, and any other updates needed.
Streaming the game to your device : The server then streams the game to your device. It's basically a live video feed 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 just a few milliseconds. Low latency is essential 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 gets the video feed 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 strong security measures.

Data encryption : Nvidia GeForce Now employs 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 cyber attacks.
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 protection 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.

Gathering information : Nvidia GeForce Now, like other cloud gaming services, collects information about gaming history and user preferences to improve its services and offer personalized recommendations.
Confidentiality policies : To safeguard user privacy, Nvidia GeForce Now has a detailed privacy policy that describes how user information is collected, used, and protected.
Understanding users : 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 to become the future of the video game field. Imagine a world where you can play your favorite video games from any device - smartphone, tablet, or laptop (Mac included!) - all of 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 requirements.
Conviviality : 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 via fiber optics and 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

Reduced latency : 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, we are likely to see a revolution in the way we consume video games, facilitating high-quality access to more people. “

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming is a relatively new gaming method that comes with a number of pros and cons. It is therefore important to understand its different facets to decide if it is right for you or not.

Benefits

Here are some of the key benefits it can offer:

Instant access : No need to wait for downloads or updates to play your favorite titles in the cloud, as they're always available. Once 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.
Lack of required equipment : 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 : That 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 a few disadvantages to consider:

High latency: This is the main disadvantage of cloud gaming. Because 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.
Difficulty 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 sometimes limited: Cloud gaming depends on the Internet to function properly, so everything stops if your connection is slow or falls completely. If this happens on a regular basis, it may be best to stick with physical copies of the games.

What games are available on Game Pass?

Xbox Game Pass offers a wide range of games, from triple-A to indie titles, for console and PC players. Here are some of the titles that are available on the service:

7 Days to Die: An open world zombie survival game where players can build forts to protect themselves.
A Plague Tale: Requiem: The sequel to the very popular “A Plague Tale: Innocence,” it offers a profound narrative experience in a medieval world ravaged by the plague.
A Way Out : A unique cooperative game where two players must work together to escape from prison.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition: A remastered version of the famous real-time strategy game.
Alice: Madness Returns : A dark and unsettling sequel to the classic “Alice in Wonderland.”
Amnesia: Collection/Rebirth/The Bunker: A series of first-person horror games that focus on survival and puzzle solving.
Among Us: A social deduction game where players have to find the impostor among them.
Anthem™ : A third-person shooter with role-playing elements in a shared world.
ANVIL: Vault Breaker (Game Preview): A top-down hack-and-slash action game with roguelike elements.
Aragami 2: A stealth action game where players take on the role of an assassin with the power to control the shadows.
Arcade Paradise: An adventure game where players turn a laundromat into the ultimate arcade.
ARK: Ultimate Survivor Edition: A special edition of the popular open-world survival game with dinosaurs.
Army of Two™ : A third-person shooter focused on cooperation between two players.
As Dusk Falls: An interactive adventure game that explores the intertwined lives of two families over thirty years.
Assassin's Creed® Odyssey/Origins: Popular entries in the Assassin's Creed franchise, with Odyssey set in ancient Greece and Origins in ancient Egypt.
ASTRONEER: A space adventure sandbox game where players can shape and explore alien worlds.

What games are available with the Game Pass?

When Game Pass was launched for consoles like the Xbox One, flagship titles such as “Halo Infinite 5: Guardians,” “Gears of War 4,” and “Forza Horizon 4” were available from day one, showing Microsoft's commitment to providing high-quality games with the service. It should be noted that game availability may vary depending on the region and the type of Game Pass subscription (console, PC, or Ultimate).

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 approach it.

What is the best cloud gaming computer?

The best Cloud Gaming PC is equipped with 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 that may have changed since then.

As far as ray tracing is concerned, yes, some games on NVIDIA GeForce NOW support ray tracing. This feature is available for GeForce NOW Priority service members.

Does GeForce NOW work on all devices?

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 game streaming in high quality.

What is the difference between GeForce NOW and other services?

GeForce NOW sets itself apart from many other gaming streaming services in several 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 lets you play games you already own on streaming platforms like Steam, the Epic Games Store, and uPlay.
Performances: GeForce NOW offers high performance, including ray tracing support for select games and 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 shut down?

Google Stadia has experienced several difficulties since its launch that have led to the cessation of its internal development of video games accessible via a web browser.

However, as of my last update in September 2021, the Google Stadia service itself has not shut down. It continues to function as a streaming platform to play video games developed by third parties in streaming.

Here are some of the reasons 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 in 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 change in strategy towards operating Stadia as a streaming platform for video games developed by third parties. This allows Google to continue offering 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.

Final opinion

The Cloud Gaming service is still in its infancy, but it has made enough progress for a few quality services to be available. Shadow tops the list of 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 coming a good part of the way with video games supported 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?