Cloud gaming is emerging as a major breakthrough in the video game industry, promising to eliminate hardware constraints while redefining access to interactive entertainment. Its principle? Offloading all graphical processing to remote servers and streaming the game in real-time to any screen—smartphone, tablet, or smart TV.
While the concept seems straightforward, its implications are profound: the democratization of high-end gaming, unprecedented flexibility for mobile players, but also an increased reliance on internet infrastructure quality.
In this analysis, we will break down the mechanics of cloud gaming, its advantages over high-end PC setups, network requirements (latency, bandwidth, 5G), and take a critical look at the strategies—and limitations—of the leading platforms (Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, PlayStation Plus Premium). With a focus on subscription models, exclusive game libraries, and data sovereignty challenges, this deep dive provides a comprehensive view of a revolution still in the making, yet already essential.
Find the plan that meets your needs and budget!
How does Cloud Gaming work?
The cloud gaming industry operates in five key stages: execution, recording, conversion, transmission, and interaction.
It all begins when the game runs on a remote computer after you launch it. That computer then records your session by capturing the commands you enter, which are sent to the server.
Once the session is recorded, it is converted into video and audio signals. These signals are then transmitted to your computer or console via an internet connection. Naturally, you’ll need a high-speed internet connection. Finally, your device displays the images and sound in real-time, allowing you to interact with the game without noticeable latency.
What internet connection do you need for Cloud Gaming?
To fully enjoy cloud gaming, here are the minimum recommended speeds:
720p at 30 FPS: at least 10 Mbps
1080p at 60 FPS: at least 25 Mbps
4K at 60 FPS: at least 50 Mbps (or even 100 Mbps for an optimal experience)
Beyond speed, a latency of under 30 ms is recommended to prevent delays between your actions and their display on screen. A wired connection (Ethernet) is also advised for better stability.
The best internet connections in Canada for Cloud Gaming
Comparison of the Best Cloud Gaming Services
GeForce Now
GeForce Now is NVIDIA’s cloud gaming service that allows players to stream their PC games purchased on platforms such as Steam, Epic Games, and Ubisoft. It offers top-tier performance with ray tracing and up to 120 FPS for premium subscribers. A free version is available, but it limits sessions to one hour.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Free / $14.99 (Priority) / $29.99 (Ultimate) per month |
| Compatible Platforms | PC, Mac, Android, iOS, TV |
| Game Catalog | Games purchased on Steam, Epic, Ubisoft |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 4K / 120 FPS |
| Ray Tracing | Yes (with subscription) |
| Session Limitation | 1h (Free), 6h (Priority), 8h (Ultimate) |
✅ Pros
Compatible with a wide range of devices
High graphical quality with ray tracing
Ability to use your own game library
❌ Cons
Very limited free version
Some games require repurchase on a compatible platform
May require a very fast internet connection for a smooth experience
Boosteroid
Boosteroid is a European cloud gaming service that allows players to access their own games purchased on various platforms without the need for powerful hardware. One of its strengths is its compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Smart TVs.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $10.99 per month (annual subscription) or $14.49 per month (monthly subscription) |
| Compatible Platforms | PC, Mac, Android, iOS, Smart TV |
| Game Library | Games purchased on Steam, Epic, Ubisoft |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 1080p / 60 FPS |
| Ray Tracing | No |
| Session Limitations | None |
✅ Pros
Compatible with many devices, including Smart TVs
Does not require a powerful PC to play
A good alternative to GeForce Now for those seeking easier access
❌ Cons
No free version
No 4K support or FPS beyond 60
Heavily dependent on internet connection
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly known as xCloud) is Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, included with the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. It allows players to stream a large selection of Xbox games directly to their mobile devices, PCs, or consoles. The main advantage is access to a wide range of AAA games without needing a console, all with a Game Pass subscription.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | 16.99$ per month (Xbox Game Pass Ultimate) |
| Compatible Platforms | PC, Android, iOS, Xbox |
| Game Catalog | Xbox games, EA Play, Game Pass |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 1080p / 60 FPS |
| Ray Tracing | No |
| Session Limitation | None |
✅ Pros
Included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription
Large catalog of AAA and indie games
Works on many devices, including Xbox consoles
❌ Cons
Resolution limited to 1080p
No support for ray tracing
Streaming quality heavily depends on internet connection
Shadow PC
Shadow PC is a unique service offering a complete Windows PC in the cloud. It not only allows you to play but also to run resource-heavy software like Photoshop or Blender. It is aimed at both gamers and content creators, although its price is higher than other services.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | 44.99 $ (Base) / 59.99 $ (Power) per month |
| Compatible Platforms | PC, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Game Catalog | All PC games (manual installation) |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 4K / 60 FPS |
| Ray tracing | Yes (with Power option) |
| Session Limitations | None |
✅ Pros
Full PC in the cloud, not just for gaming
Compatible with all PC games and software
Stable and customizable performance
❌ Cons
More expensive subscription compared to other services
Requires manual installation of games
Potential latency for competitive gaming
PlayStation Plus Cloud Gaming
The PlayStation cloud gaming service is integrated into the PlayStation Plus Premium offer. It allows streaming of PS4 and PS5 titles, including on PC. One of its advantages is access to PlayStation exclusives without requiring a console, although streaming quality depends heavily on internet connection.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $21.99 per month (PlayStation Plus Premium) |
| Compatible Platforms | PS5, PS4, PC |
| Game Catalog | PlayStation games only |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 1080p / 60 FPS |
| Ray tracing | No |
| Session Limit | Unlimited with subscription |
✅ Pros
- Access to PlayStation exclusives without a console
- Works without downloading games
- Included in the PlayStation Plus Premium subscription
❌ Cons
Limited to PlayStation games
Heavily dependent on internet connection quality
No dedicated mobile app
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna is Amazon’s cloud gaming service, offering a subscription-based model with themed channels. Prime subscribers get access to a selection of free games, while additional paid options allow for an expanded library.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Included with Amazon Prime ($9.99 per month) for a selection of games, with additional paid options available |
| Compatible Platforms | PC, Mac, Fire TV, Android, iOS |
| Game Library | Amazon Luna + Ubisoft+ games |
| Resolution / FPS | Up to 1080p / 60 FPS |
| Ray Tracing | No |
| Session Limit | None |
✅ Pros
Free for Amazon Prime subscribers
Compatible with Fire TV and Amazon devices
Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
❌ Cons
Limited game catalog compared to other services
Streaming quality capped at 1080p / 60 FPS
Heavily dependent on a stable internet connection
FAQ
What is cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming allows you to play video games without downloading or installing them on a device. The games are run on remote servers and streamed to your screen, similar to how Netflix streams movies.
What are the advantages of cloud gaming?
- No need for a powerful PC or console
- Instant access to games without installation
- Ability to play on multiple devices (PC, smartphone, TV)
What cloud gaming services are available?
The main services are:
GeForce Now (streaming of PC games purchased on Steam, Epic, Ubisoft)
PlayStation Plus Cloud Gaming (streaming of PS4 and PS5 games)
Shadow PC (cloud PC for gaming and productivity)
Amazon Luna (subscription with a selection of games)
Boosteroid (access to games purchased on various platforms)
Xbox Cloud Gaming (included in Game Pass Ultimate)
Which cloud gaming service offers the best graphics quality?
GeForce Now Ultimate is one of the best in terms of quality, offering 4K at 120 FPS with ray tracing. Shadow PC Power also provides high performance but comes at a higher price.
Which cloud gaming service is the most affordable?
The cheapest service is GeForce Now, which offers a free version with sessions limited to one hour. Xbox Cloud Gaming ($16.99/month) and Boosteroid ($10.99/month with an annual subscription) are also among the most affordable options.
Can you play cloud gaming on a Smart TV?
Yes, some services like Boosteroid, GeForce Now, and Amazon Luna are compatible with Smart TVs (Android TV, Samsung, LG, Fire TV).
Does cloud gaming work well on a slow connection?
No, it is recommended to have at least a 15 Mbps connection for 1080p and 35 Mbps for 4K to avoid latency and quality drops.
Can you use a controller with cloud gaming?
Yes, most services support Xbox, PlayStation controllers, and other Bluetooth or USB-compatible models.
