Imagine a world where you can access your entire library of games from any internet-connected device at any time. You can, and it’s all thanks to some exciting new innovations. Cloud gaming is a growing phenomenon that is reshaping the video game industry. According to Newzoo, a gaming analytics company, 31.7 million users worldwide spent $2.4 billion on cloud games and services in 2017. And by 2025, those figures are projected to increase to $8.2 billion in revenue and 86.9 million consumers. Continue reading to learn how cloud gaming works, Jio cloud gaming, and Xbox cloud gaming.
What Is Cloud Gaming?
To sum up, cloud gaming allows users to play games without installing the game client on their local computer, thus negating the need for powerful hardware. Instead, you can play the game using a browser or app on an appropriate device, which receives data about the game from faraway servers via a stable internet connection.
It’s pretty similar to Disney Plus and Netflix, however, the content is interactive, and the streaming video may respond to your actions. This eliminates the need for expensive hardware like the Nvidia RTX 4000 graphics card or a dedicated gaming system like the Xbox One X or PlayStation 5. All you need is a reliable connection to the internet and you can play any number of games.
There is a huge variety of games available, the specifics of which can vary depending on the platform you’re playing. Unfortunately, not every game can be played in the cloud, however, this is changing monthly.
How Does Cloud Gaming Work?
When playing games on the cloud, you can take one of two major approaches: video streaming or command streaming.
The video streaming method involves sending a video stream to the user’s device while the game logic and graphics are processed on the cloud. As a result, the service can be accessible from a greater variety of devices without requiring a particularly potent local GPU. High-quality video streaming, however, necessitates a hefty data allowance for the device. Nvidia’s GeForce Now, Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming, and even the now-defunct Google Stadia all take this approach to cloud gaming.
The visuals and game logic are rendered in the cloud via the command streaming method, with the graphics instructions then being delivered to the user’s device and executed by the local GPU. The cloud, in contrast to video streaming, delivers instructions to the device to generate the scene locally. When the device’s graphics processing unit (GPU) is used, the cloud-sent instructions are much more lightweight than a video stream. While this helps conserve data, the visual quality can shift depending on the device’s graphics processing unit (GPU). Also, read Cloud Strategy: Definition, Functions, & Steps to Planning It
What Is the Point of Cloud Gaming?
The benefits of cloud gaming extend beyond players to include developers and publishers. To begin with, the initial investment in purchasing and maintaining a high-end gaming PC or game console is reduced significantly by cloud gaming. Instead, you can pay a nominal monthly charge to have access to a powerful gaming PC or to stream content.
Even if you have to buy games separately for some services, you’ll still save money and time in the long run by playing games in the cloud.
In addition, because everything is kept digitally in the cloud, you may access your games and saved data from any device, at any time. As long as you’re connected to the internet, you may play your games on any device at any time.
Since players aren’t actually downloading the game, there is no longer any risk of piracy or requirement for DRM, making cloud gaming a huge gain for publishers and developers. Instead, you only have streaming access. In addition to saving money on development, online and competitive games can benefit greatly from cloud gaming because all players have access to the same hardware and performance.
Characteristics of Cloud Gaming
With cloud gaming, you may play games from any internet-connected computer or mobile device. If you want to play your favorite games in HD but don’t have a vast budget, this is a perfect option.
One of cloud gaming’s most distinguishing features is its adaptability. If you need something from home while you’re away, all it takes is a quick download. You shouldn’t get rid of your old video games just yet.
If you play games on the cloud, you can get updates on new content before the company puts them on local servers or hard drives. The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One hard drives from Sony and Microsoft, respectively, are two offline devices. Here are some of the characteristics of cloud gaming.
#1. Game Downloads Are Not Necessary
Modern AAA games typically only need a few hundred gigabytes of space, so don’t worry too much about that. Large files like these can be difficult to download because they take up so much room and data.
You’ll also need to upgrade your phone’s storage if you plan on keeping a significant library of modern games. But if you use a cloud gaming service, you won’t have to worry about downloading games before you can play them. You also get access to the largest library of games, something that is nearly impossible with conventional gaming.
#2. You Can Play Video Games on Any Device
Thanks to cloud gaming services, you may play games on your Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, or Linux device. With these services, you can play on many smartphone platforms simultaneously, and your progress will be synced across all of your registered devices.
You can still enjoy the game on your mobile device even if you don’t have access to a larger display. The incredible advantages offered by cloud gaming services make them the future of modern gaming.
#3. There Is No Need for Expensive Hardware
As previously mentioned, cloud gaming services allow individuals the opportunity to engage in their favorite gaming activities without the need for costly hardware. The most recent video games can be enjoyed on suboptimal hardware without incurring any additional expenses for enhancements. For individuals who have a passion for gaming but lack access to high-end gaming devices, opting for a cloud gaming service presents the most favorable option.
#4. Versatile Portability for Game-Time
Typically, gaming equipment exhibits minimal portability. Gaming in public spaces such as subways or waiting areas is not feasible, even with the utilization of very portable gaming laptops. Cloud gaming offers exceptional portability and affords individuals the autonomy to engage in gameplay at their preferred time and location.
Overview of the Best Cloud Gaming Services
It’s safe to assume that cloud gaming is expanding, as many businesses now provide this service. Amazon released its Luna cloud gaming service in the year 2020. Microsoft, too, offers cloud-based gaming via the Xbox platform.
Services like these ultimately result in faster loading times, better customer service, larger screens for watching media, and more. Let’s check out what sets apart the several cloud gaming options available today.
#1. NVIDIA GeForce Now
If you have a reliable internet connection, the NVIDIA GeForce Now will deliver a complete gaming experience with only a little bit of input lag. While many cloud gaming services include a game library from which users can purchase titles, GeForce Now does not offer this feature.
Furthermore, popular game client platforms such as Steam, Epic, Uplay, and others are the only ones supported for game integration. Some gaming clients may not work with GeForce Now, so keep that in mind as well.
Games initially launch at their native 720p 60 FPS setting on GeForce Now, with support for up to 1080p at 60 FPS. The GeForce Now app is available for multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, and Mac, and is compatible with a wide range of devices.
The little input lag that comes with the cloud service is the main draw for gamers. Because of the reduced input lag, the gameplay is just as fluid and responsive as it is in regular games.
#2. PlayStation Now
If you own a PlayStation or are a fan of PlayStation games, PlayStation Now is a great option for you. After signing up for the cloud gaming service, you gain access to more than 800 games. Once you sign up for PlayStation Now, you’ll have access to every game in their catalog.
The games can be played in two ways: either by downloading them and playing them offline, or by streaming them from the PS Now servers. Included in the package is a great variety of games, spanning from PS2 classics through PS4 and 5 releases.
The primary drawbacks to using PS Now are its lack of newer titles and bound cross-platform compatibility. The cloud gaming service is only compatible with Windows PCs and PlayStation consoles, and not with mobile operating systems like Android or iOS.
PS Now may be expanding its library, but it is still more of a PlayStation-exclusive service than a true cloud gaming platform.
#3. Shadow
It would be inaccurate to refer to Shadow as a cloud gaming service; rather, Shadow is a cloud computing service. Shadow provides you with a whole computer rather than only a portion of its capabilities when you launch a game, unlike other cloud gaming services.
You’ll receive a brand new PC loaded with Windows, RTX graphics, 12 GB of RAM, and a 1 Gbps internet connection. To a large extent, the Windows computer can be customized in the same manner as any other computer.
The great thing about Shadow is that it works with any game that can be played on a Windows PC. When it comes to streaming quality and input lag, this service is unparalleled. Shadow has a relatively hefty monthly fee, but its great features make it one of the best cloud gaming services available.
#4. Amazon Luna
A recent addition to the top tier of cloud gaming services, Amazon Luna is one to keep an eye on. Luna has a small but growing library of games and offers a playable gaming experience.
Luna only works with games played in a web browser right now, but the controller adds a ton of more functionality. When playing games on Luna, the Luna Controller can be paired with your devices for enhanced control.
The controller uses its own Wi-Fi connection to keep input lag to a minimum. Additionally, the controller allows you to switch between numerous devices connected to the cloud gaming service.
Ubisoft+ can be added to your Luna subscription, which already includes games like Wonderful 101: Remastered, Ride 4, and Narita Boy. With Ubisoft Plus, you can play popular AAA games like Far Cry 5, Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, and Watch Dogs: Legion.
#5. Playkey
Playkey’s cloud gaming services utilize Blockchain technology rather than relying solely on centralized servers. It is a beneficial service for the crypto-mining community and the gaming community alike. Allowing your device to participate in the blockchain network’s bitcoin mining is one option, while the tried-and-true cloud gaming service is another.
Playkey’s servers have the Nvidia GeForce 1080 Ti, which has 3584 CUDA 11 GB of video memory, four Intel Xeon processor cores, and twenty gigabytes of random access memory (RAM). All devices with more than 1 GB of RAM and a 1.5 GHz processor will be able to use the service without any issues. Playkey currently only works on desktop operating systems and does not support mobile devices.
Playkey’s library is shared by publishers including Ubisoft, Bethesda, and WarGaming thanks to direct agreements between the company and those studios. Playkey allows you to buy individual games or combine your Steam library.
There are seldom hiccups or delays in response to player input. You can choose between 720p (30 frames per second) to 1080p (120 frames per second) gameplay, with the latter requiring more bandwidth. If you enjoy making and receiving payments in cryptocurrency, this is yet another perk you’ll appreciate.
What Is the Difference Between Cloud Gaming and Normal Gaming?
The decision between playing games in the cloud and playing them on a standard PC is entirely up to the player. There are benefits and cons to both types of games. While there is a larger library of games available through cloud gaming and it is more cost-effective, normal PC gaming has superior visuals and does not require an always-on internet connection. Both online and offline gaming have their merits, so players can pick whichever they like. Here are some little comparisons between cloud gaming and normal gaming.
#1. Hardware Requirements
One of the primary distinctions between cloud gaming and normal PC gaming is the system requirements. Users of typical personal computers playing video games need powerful hardware such as a high-end graphics card, processor, and memory. Contrarily, cloud gaming is dependent on a constant internet connection on the user’s device and has far fewer hardware requirements due to being hosted on a remote server.
#2. Cost
The price of playing PC games can traditionally vary widely depending on factors like the game’s retail price and the specifications of the player’s PC. Depending on the game and its features, the price might range from free to hundreds of dollars. However, cloud gaming services are more approachable for casual players because they offer a monthly membership fee to access a large library of games.
#3. Speed of Gaming
Since cloud gaming is streamed live over the internet, having a high-speed internet connection is crucial. If the user’s internet connection isn’t as quick or stable as it could be, they may have latency or buffering issues, which can lower their gaming performance. Alternatively, a constant internet connection is not necessary for traditional PC gaming because the game is downloaded locally to the user’s device.
#4. Excellent Graphics
Visual quality is another area where cloud gaming differs from normal gaming. Since cloud games are streamed over the internet, the visual quality may be superior to that of traditional PC gaming. The graphic quality of online games, however, is getting better as time goes on, and certain cloud gaming services may soon have content that will blow your mind.
#5. Portability and Accessibility
They’re fantastic since you can access your cloud-based game library whenever you like, from any device. Customers who subscribe to cloud gaming services can access their games from any device with an Internet connection, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, with no additional software required. Because the user’s game library syncs across all of their connected devices, picking up right where you left off is a breeze. On the other hand, if you switch devices while playing a typical PC game, you may have to restart from the beginning.
What Are the Advantages of Cloud Gaming?
The lack of need to perform any sort of download or installation is a huge plus for cloud gaming. With this, neither the game’s storage requirements nor its download time will be an issue. Players that have little space on their devices will appreciate this feature greatly. Enjoying one’s favorite games can be done with little to no effort because of the ease with which they can be accessed remotely, without the requirement for installation or downloads. Here are some top advantages of cloud gaming.
#1. A Wide Selection of Playable Games
The fact that gamers have their pick of the latest and greatest releases, as well as the classics, is yet another perk of cloud gaming. This boosts cloud gaming’s appeal as a novel option for gamers in search of new challenges.
#2. Lower Costs
Cost-wise, cloud gaming may also be preferable to more conventional methods. By moving the processing and rendering to a remote server, cloud gaming frees players from the requirement for expensive gaming consoles or high-performance computers to run the latest titles. Instead, players need just to have access to the internet on their device of choice.
#3. Experience Gaming Like Never Before
A fully immersive gaming experience is also possible with cloud gaming. The game’s reliance on and operation from remote servers allows for superior visuals, quicker load times, and more fluid gameplay for players. That slowness and delays in gameplay won’t ruin the experience for gamers.
Is There a Downside to Cloud Gaming?
Yes, there are some downsides to cloud gaming they are listed below.
#1. Stability and Connectivity of the Internet
The biggest downside with cloud gaming is that you need a constant and fast internet connection to play. Especially in online multiplayer settings, lag and disconnections can be a real pain for players who don’t have a reliable connection. Internet access is increasing all throughout the world, but dependable, fast connections are still unusual.
Even with a high-speed internet connection, cloud gaming can still have latency issues that slow down input replies, which can be unpleasant for players. When playing a game in the cloud, the visual quality can vary depending on the service provider’s servers and infrastructure, and may even be downgraded in order to reduce the amount of data transferred over the internet.
#2. Data Confidentiality
Another drawback of cloud gaming is the security and privacy issues it can cause. Since the games reside on other servers, players are required to share their data with the cloud gaming service. In circumstances where the service provider is susceptible to data breaches, this may cause customers to worry about the safety of their personal information. Because of the potential for hackers to target service providers’ servers and compromise user data, cloud gaming requires consumers to place their trust in service providers with their personal information and game data.
#3. Costs
If you play games for long periods of time, it may end up costing you more, in the long run, to do it in the cloud rather than on a console or PC. Monthly subscription costs for cloud gaming services are not uncommon, and they may make users spend more than they would for a console-based gaming system.
#4. Minimal Influence
In addition, players have less agency in cloud-based games. In cloud gaming, games are stored and managed by a third-party service, meaning that players have little say over their experience. This may be a turnoff for some players because it limits their ability to personalize their gaming experience.
What Is Cloud Gaming Xbox?
Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, Xbox Cloud Gaming, is the official provider. During its brief beta phase, it went by the name “Project xCloud.” You can play Xbox games on your computer, phone, or TV by establishing a connection to a remote server. Everything you type into the app goes to the server, and the results are delivered to your device in real-time.
In its infancy, the service was accessible only on Android mobile devices. While it originally only worked on Macs and Linux machines, it has now been updated to work on Windows computers and Xbox consoles, and it even supports iOS devices like the iPhone and iPad using a web browser. To compete with other popular cloud gaming systems like GeForce Now, this brings it closer to device parity. For the most part, though, the service’s ties to Game Pass Ultimate might make it the better choice.
How Does Xbox Cloud Gaming Work?
Connecting your Xbox One console to a server in the cloud is how Xbox Cloud Gaming functions. Since the game is being run and your inputs are being processed in real-time by the server, it will feel as though you are playing it locally on your device. That’s the theory, anyway.
Input latency has obvious physical bounds. Your experience will vary based on a variety of factors, including the speed of your internet connection and how far your location is from the nearest server. Microsoft suggests having an internet connection speed between 7 and 10 Mbps, however, faster connections are preferable. An additional way to improve performance is to use a cable connection or a high-end router.
To play a game, the exact instructions depend on the platform you’re using:
- To play games that are compatible with Xbox Game Pass on Android, open the app and then tap Play.
- To play games on Xbox One using an iOS device, use Safari, go to Xbox.com/play, sign in, and browse games.
- If you’re using Windows, you can play online via Xbox.com/play in your browser or from the Xbox app.
Do I Need a Controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, you may or may not need to plug in a controller, depending on the game you wish to play. Touchscreens on Android mobile devices can be used for many games, but Bluetooth controllers are still the most comfortable way to play games on the service. Microsoft has created a “touch input overlay” that eliminates the need for a controller when playing video games on a mobile device.
Full touch control support was introduced in Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice and it has since been expanded to more than 200 more games. Many, such as Minecraft Dungeons, also let you alter the overall design.
Touchscreen controls are being explored by Microsoft in ways that go beyond simple controller emulation. You can use your finger to scroll through the menus in Minecraft Dungeons, rather than tapping up and down. In the future, especially in first-party games, we can anticipate more advancements like this. Also, read HOW TO CONNECT A XBOX ONE CONTROLLER: EASY Guide!
However, in order to play games that do not support touch controls, you will need to plug in a controller. A variety of wired and wireless controllers, including those made specifically for mobile use such as the Razer Kishi, qualify.
Jio Cloud Gaming
About three years ago, at the AGM 2019 event, Jio gave us a demo of FIFA 19 in the cloud. In 2022, the corporation has made significant progress toward its objectives. Jio is now offering its cloud gaming platform in beta. JioGamesCloud is a cloud-based online gaming service that makes it possible to play desktop games on any device (a web browser, Android phone, or iPhone, for example) without the need for powerful hardware.
What Is Jio Cloud Gaming?
JioGamesCloud is Reliance Jio’s new cloud-based gaming platform in India. It’s a service for playing games online in the cloud, like Nvidia GeForce Now, Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass, Amazon’s Luna, and the defunct Google Stadia. You don’t need to download AAA games or casual browser games to play them on your phone, computer, tablet, TV, or Jio STB box. Jio has the games stored on their cloud servers, so all you have to do is stream them to your smartphone. Games that rely heavily on visuals can now be played without a dedicated gaming PC or console.
The beta release of the platform has begun, but so far only members of the “Early Access Program” have access to the platform and its games. JioGamesCloud appears to be using Nvidia’s GeForceNow technology for its backend infrastructure thanks to a partnership with the company. In short, several Redditors have discovered GeForce Now support on Jio’s Set-Top Box (STB).
Other than that, JioGamesCloud does not support linking your Steam or EA library just now. Only games that are currently supported by the system can be played. That’s a shame, for sure, but keep in mind that the service is still in beta and may undergo changes before the final release. There is currently no data available to us regarding where exactly the servers are located.
Is Jio Cloud Gaming Free to Use?
Currently, anyone can sign up for the Early Access Program and use JioGamesCloud at no cost to play the games available on their devices. No membership in the Reliance Jio network is required. However, Jio has stated that after JioGamesCloud leaves beta, users will be required to pay a monthly subscription fee in order to access the service. So, yep, JioGamesCloud’s beta version is currently available without cost.
Requirements to Play Games on Jio Cloud Gaming
Users must meet a few criteria before they can access the JioGamesCloud platform and begin playing games there. Here is a list of them:
#1. Consistent Internet Connection
It should come as no surprise that a constant internet connection is necessary for cloud gaming. Jio also guarantees that if you have 20 Mbps of connection, JioGamesCloud will work flawlessly on your web browser or mobile device. Jio Cloud Gaming is a great place to play games, but only if you have a device that is compatible with the service.
#2. OS/Device Compatibility
Jio’s cloud gaming platform is now accessible on Android smartphones through the JioGames app, so it’s likely that the service will be made available on Android tablets in the near future. The desktop web app is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux machines. Streaming games from JioGamesCloud is currently supported on iOS using the Safari web app.
Jio Cloud Gaming ran smoothly on a Chromebook that I tried it on. The web app version of JioGamesCloud should work in any up-to-date Windows or Mac browser (presumably Chromium-based). With Jio’s set-top box and the JioGames app, you can play cloud-based games on your TV. There is currently no support for Jio’s cloud gaming service on Android TVs.
#3. Controller Support
Jio claims that any Bluetooth or wired gaming controller will work with your mobile so you can play games from the JioGamesCloud service. Your Xbox or PS controllers should function normally with JioGamesCloud. The Jio gaming controller, which can be purchased separately, is priced at $43.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, modern video games will increasingly take place in the cloud. You may find a list of the top cloud gaming providers, along with an analysis of their respective advantages and disadvantages, above. While deciding on your next cloud gaming provider, make sure to prioritize a high-quality streaming experience and a diverse selection of games. Best cloud gaming services include NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, Vortex, and Shadow.
Frequently Asked Question
Is Cloud Gaming Free?
Only Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members have access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. You get access to Xbox Live, Xbox Game Pass on console and PC, Xbox Cloud Games, and EA Play, all for just $16.99 per month. Xbox Cloud Gaming is not available as a stand-alone service.
Is Cloud Gaming Good or Bad?
The game selection on Xbox Cloud Gaming is extensive and constantly evolving. It has some significant technological barriers to overcome before it can truly shine, though, such as its too-aggressive video compression and its lack of support for the mouse and keyboard.
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