Cloud Gaming: What You Should Know About Top 3 Services

The core idea is simple. Instead of running a game on your device, it runs on a powerful remote server. Your screen just receives the video stream while your inputs are sent back in real time. It works similarly to Netflix, but instead of watching a movie, you’re actively playing a game.

To use cloud gaming, the main thing you need is a stable internet connection. For Full HD gaming, a speed of 15 to 25 Mbps is usually enough. If you want to enjoy 4K, you’ll need around 40 Mbps or more. As for hardware, almost any device will do. You can play from an old laptop, a smartphone, a tablet, a Smart TV or even a portable console like the Steam Deck. Most platforms let you start playing directly from a browser or app after logging in.

The Top 3 Cloud Gaming Platforms

Boosteroid

Boosteroid stands out as the biggest cloud gaming platform not controlled by a tech giant, yet competes head-to-head with them in both scale and capability. It is also the world’s third-largest cloud gaming service in the player numbers overall in 2025.

Boosteroid supports over 1,200 games, including a wide range of AAA titles, indie favorites, and many games unavailable on other services. Users can play directly from a browser or via apps on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and Smart TVs – no downloads required.

The company is especially notable for its support of the modern AV1 codec, which improves streaming quality while reducing bandwidth usage. It operates across a large network of data centers, ensuring low latency and high performance in many regions.

• Compatible with Steam, Epic Games Store, and more
• Starts at €9.89/month, with discounts for annual plans
• Great option if you already have games and care about image quality and don't want to overpay

Boosteroid is ideal for users who want broad game compatibility, strong performance, and one of the best value options in cloud gaming today.

GeForce Now

NVIDIA’s GeForce Now is another leader in cloud gaming, particularly attractive to players who already own large libraries on Steam, Epic, or Ubisoft Connect. The platform excels in visual quality, offering 4K resolution and RTX support with its Ultimate plan. It's especially popular among competitive and tech-savvy gamers.

It supports over 2,000 titles and is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, browsers, and smart TVs. A free plan is available, but paid tiers offer better priority and longer sessions.

• Free tier with queues; paid plans from $9.99 to $21.99/month
• Time/session limits still apply even at higher tiers
• Great option if you already have games and care about image quality

GeForce Now is one of the strongest choices if streaming quality and graphical fidelity are your top priorities.

Xbox Cloud Gaming

Included with the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, Xbox Cloud Gaming allows you to stream Game Pass titles across Xbox consoles, PCs, smartphones, and newer Samsung smart TVs. It offers seamless integration with your Xbox profile, achievements, and controller setup.

The subscription gives access to hundreds of games, including popular releases from Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, EA, and more. However, it doesn’t support games from other libraries like Steam or Epic.

• Part of Game Pass Ultimate, priced at $14.99/month
• Works across devices with good gamepad support
• Game catalog rotates and doesn’t include user-owned titles outside Game Pass

Xbox Cloud Gaming is a solid pick if you’re already in the Xbox ecosystem or want a reliable, all-in-one subscription.

Other Cloud Gaming Options

Amazon Luna offers a streamlined, family-friendly experience with themed content channels. It’s a good choice for casual players and runs well on Fire TV, Android, iOS, macOS, and browsers. The Luna+ subscription starts at $9.99/month. However, Luna currently supports only 1080p resolution and is better suited for non-competitive or family-focused play.

PlayStation Plus Premium includes access to cloud-streamed PlayStation titles across PS4, PS5, and PC. It appeals mainly to fans of Sony exclusives and retro PlayStation titles. Availability and catalog size may vary by region.

Why This Matters in 2025

Cloud gaming is no longer a niche experiment – it’s a mainstream, flexible way to play. You don’t need a powerful device or expensive hardware to enjoy top-tier games. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive gamer, there’s likely a cloud platform that fits your style and budget.

• If you want the biggest library at a low price, choose Boosteroid.
• If you already have a Game Pass subscription, Xbox Cloud Gaming is an easy entry point.
• If you value high-end graphics and already own games, GeForce Now is the best match.
• And if you just want something simple and fun for the family, Amazon Luna might be enough.