“I Tried Every Cloud Gaming Service — Here’s The One That Actually Works”
I Tried Every Cloud Gaming Service — Here’s The One That Actually Works
If you’re a gamer in the UK, you’ve probably heard the buzz about cloud gaming. It promises to let you play the latest AAA titles without needing a high-end PC or console. But with so many services out there, which one actually delivers? I decided to put them all to the test. After weeks of trial and error, I found the one that truly stands out. Plus, I’ll share some money-saving tips to help you get the best deals. Let’s dive in!
Why Cloud Gaming?
Cloud gaming is a game-changer (pun intended). It allows you to stream games directly to your device, whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or even your TV. No downloads, no updates, and no need for expensive hardware. But not all cloud gaming services are created equal. Some are plagued by lag, while others have limited game libraries. Here’s what I discovered.
Key Point
Cloud gaming is perfect for gamers who want flexibility and affordability, but choosing the right service is crucial.
The Contenders
I tested five of the most popular cloud gaming services available in the UK:
- Xbox Cloud Gaming (via Game Pass Ultimate): Microsoft’s offering with a solid library of Xbox and PC games.
- GeForce NOW: NVIDIA’s service that lets you stream games you already own on platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store.
- Amazon Luna: Amazon’s entry into the cloud gaming space, with a focus on casual and indie games.
- PlayStation Plus Premium: Sony’s cloud gaming service, offering a mix of PS4 and PS5 titles.
- Shadow: A unique service that gives you access to a full Windows 10 PC in the cloud.
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming is bundled with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which costs £12.99/month. For that price, you get access to over 100 high-quality games, including day-one releases from Xbox Game Studios. The streaming quality is impressive, with minimal lag on a stable internet connection. However, the service is best experienced on a controller, as touch controls can feel clunky.
Pro Tip
Look out for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate deals, especially around Black Friday or during Microsoft promotions. You can often snag a 1-month trial for just £1!
GeForce NOW
GeForce NOW is a great option if you already own a library of games on Steam, Epic Games Store, or other platforms. The free tier lets you play for one hour at a time, but the paid tiers (£8.99/month or £89.99/year) offer longer sessions and priority access. The streaming quality is excellent, but the game library is limited to what you already own or are willing to buy.
Pro Tip
Use GeForce NOW’s free tier to test the service before committing to a paid plan. It’s a great way to see if your internet connection can handle the streaming demands.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna is still in its early stages in the UK, but it’s worth keeping an eye on. The service offers a variety of game channels, each with its own subscription fee. The base Luna+ channel costs £8.99/month and includes a decent selection of games. However, the library isn’t as extensive as Xbox Cloud Gaming, and the streaming quality can be hit or miss.
PlayStation Plus Premium
PlayStation Plus Premium (£13.49/month) is Sony’s answer to cloud gaming. It offers a mix of PS4 and PS5 games, but the streaming quality isn’t as consistent as Xbox Cloud Gaming. If you’re already invested in the PlayStation ecosystem, it’s worth considering, but it’s not the best option for newcomers.
Shadow
Shadow is a unique service that gives you access to a full Windows 10 PC in the cloud. It’s perfect for gamers who want the flexibility to play any game, not just those available on specific platforms. However, at £29.99/month, it’s the most expensive option on this list. If you’re a hardcore gamer who needs maximum flexibility, Shadow might be worth the investment.
The Winner: Xbox Cloud Gaming
After testing all five services, Xbox Cloud Gaming emerged as the clear winner. It offers the best combination of game library, streaming quality, and value for money. Plus, with regular deals and discounts on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, it’s the most affordable option for most gamers.
Key Point
Xbox Cloud Gaming is the best overall cloud gaming service in the UK, offering a vast library, excellent streaming quality, and great value for money.
Money-Saving Tips for Cloud Gaming
Here are some practical tips to help you save money while enjoying cloud gaming:
- Look for Free Trials: Most cloud gaming services offer free trials. Use them to test the service before committing to a paid plan.
- Take Advantage of Deals: Keep an eye out for promotions, especially around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday sales.
- Share Subscriptions: Some services, like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, allow you to share your subscription with family members, reducing the cost per person.
- Use Rewards Programs: Microsoft Rewards and other loyalty programs can help you earn points that can be redeemed for free months of service.
Pro Tip
Combine Xbox Game Pass Ultimate with Microsoft Rewards to maximize your savings. You can earn points by completing simple tasks and redeem them for free months of service.
Final Thoughts
Cloud gaming is the future of gaming, and it’s more accessible than ever. While there are several great options available, Xbox Cloud Gaming stands out as the best choice for most gamers in the UK. With its extensive library, excellent streaming quality, and affordable pricing, it’s hard to beat. Plus, with the money-saving tips I’ve shared, you can enjoy cloud gaming without breaking the bank.