Cloud gaming is the next revolution, isn’t it? As soon as cloud computing took over, it seemed only logical for cloud gaming to open up the next frontier for gamers. With your gaming headset in tow, you know that every modern console can be played with all-digital games. And, there are now multiple cloud gaming services offering the popular subscription model which is even changing how the game is played. The cloud gaming subscription model also opens up the gaming world to even more potential gamers who might have found it too costly to purchase an entire console.
How Does Cloud Gaming Work?
With cloud gaming, you really only need remote hardware to house the games such as servers owned by the gaming company. And, you don’t need any physical games or to download the game onto your current gaming system. Basically, you can simply stream the game onto a compatible device.
Yet, this also means a lot of cross-functionality since many cloud games can run on any device with an Internet connection. What’s important is to have a strong, and consistent Internet connection so as not to interrupt to playing experience. Imagine the possibilities when 5G comes into play for most connected households.
The Subscription Model
What’s attractive about cloud gaming, similar to other types of streaming services, is you can pay for your subscription on either a monthly or yearly basis. The, specific services or games may be purchased in addition to the initial fee. You can play any game available right away since they are hosted by remote servers.
Furthermore, instead of storing your game data on your console, it is stored in the cloud. Even though cloud gaming services are compatible with mobile devices, they are also compatible with various consoles.
A Bit of History
The first mainstream cloud gaming service was launched in 2010 as OnLive. It had its own controller and game streaming console. But, since the technology was so new, latency was often an issue. Sadly, OnLive wasn’t as popular as it should have been. Next came GaiKai, then Sony Computer Entertainment now known as PlayStation Now.
So Why is Cloud Gaming on Fire Now?
Even with new, and classic consoles, on the market many cloud gaming companies offer games without almost zero latency. Down the road, the offerings will be in 8k. But, it’s also very convenient. You don’t have to download any titles, so you can play instantly. The only problem right now are the caps on data.
It’s Inevitable
You can literally use your phone’s Internet connection to access the power housed in an Xbox console. This is just one of many reasons why the gaming industry is heading towards the direction of the cloud. Cloud gaming companies are now focused on meeting players where they are as opposed to trying to get them to buy an entirely new console. While there is some lag, that will also change in the future as technologies continue to evolve around connectivity and Internet speed.
Final Thought
In terms of cloud gaming, it seems the writing is on the wall – or, on the screen. If you want to play Minecraft on a Playstation, why not? So, instead of focusing on compatibility, game developers can simply focus on the cloud platform. As long as speeds are fast, seems it’s a win-win for all involved.