Wondering if now’s the time to try cloud gaming? Here’s what you should know about the top platforms in 2025.
Playing games online is both a futuristic idea and a practical reality embraced by thousands of gamers every day.
What is cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming lets you play modern video games without the need for a powerful PC or console. Instead, the game runs on a remote server, and you receive a live video stream of the action. Your inputs are sent to the server and reflected on your screen in real time. It’s similar to watching a livestream, but this time, you’re the one in control.
All you need is a stable internet connection and a compatible screen, be it a computer, tablet, smartphone, or smart TV. No downloads or lengthy updates are necessary, as everything happens server-side. The convenience and simplicity open the door for more people to experience modern games without technical barriers.
Top 5 popular cloud gaming platforms
PlayStation Plus Premium
Sony’s top-tier subscription service, PlayStation Plus Premium, offers a comprehensive and versatile way to experience the full breadth of the PlayStation universe through the cloud. With this plan, users get streaming access to an extensive library that includes not only a huge selection of PlayStation exclusives, but also a treasure trove of retro classics from previous console generations, alongside a rotating assortment of popular third-party games.
You aren’t limited to playing on just a PlayStation console – you can stream directly on a PS5 or PS4, or even through a web browser on your PC, which means you don’t actually need to own any PlayStation hardware to enjoy the experience. This broad compatibility makes it especially convenient for PlayStation fans who want the freedom to play wherever they are, whether at home or away, and whether they prefer using a console, laptop, or even just a browser.
In addition to streaming, the service often includes benefits like early game trials and cloud saves, further enhancing its appeal. For those who have followed PlayStation’s legacy or just want easy access to iconic titles across multiple devices, PlayStation Plus Premium remains a compelling and feature-rich choice.
Boosteroid
Boosteroid has established itself as one of the leading names in cloud gaming, thanks in large part to its enormous game library and flexible, wallet-friendly subscription plans. It is the biggest cloud gaming platform not controlled by a tech giant, yet it competes head-to-head with them in both scale and capability.
The platform boasts access to hundreds of popular games, including many sought-after titles that you won’t easily find on competing services. This diverse catalog spans genres and publishers, giving users the freedom to jump into everything from the latest AAA releases to indie gems, often without restrictions tied to a specific hardware ecosystem.
A standout feature of Boosteroid is its remarkable accessibility. Games can be launched instantly from virtually any device with a browser, whether it’s a Windows or Mac computer, an Android phone, or even a smart TV. This device-agnostic approach means you don’t need a powerful gaming rig at home – you can just log in and play wherever you are, with no downloads or lengthy updates. The platform is also notable for its lack of strict session limits, allowing gamers to enjoy long, uninterrupted play sessions so long as their internet connection remains stable.
On the technical side, Boosteroid is ahead of the curve with its support for AV1 video streaming, a next-generation codec that delivers high-quality graphics while using less bandwidth. The service intelligently routes users to the nearest data centers for lower latency and smoother performance, making it an excellent option in regions where server infrastructure is crucial for a good experience. With constant improvements to its network, regular additions to its game library, and a focus on making premium gaming available to everyone, Boosteroid is a top pick for both casual players and dedicated gaming enthusiasts looking for flexibility, value, and a wide selection of games.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna offers a fresh take on cloud gaming with its innovative “channel” subscription model, giving users the ability to pick and choose from themed content bundles tailored to different gaming interests and audiences. With channels like Luna+ for a broad mix of popular games, Ubisoft+ for direct access to new and classic Ubisoft titles, and a Family channel filled with kid-friendly options, users can customize their experience and only pay for what they want. This unique approach makes Luna particularly appealing to households with diverse gaming tastes or for people looking to try out new genres without committing to a single, all-encompassing subscription.
Integration with Amazon’s ecosystem is one of Luna’s biggest strengths. The Luna Controller is designed specifically for the cloud, connecting directly to Amazon’s servers for minimal input lag, which can make gameplay feel more responsive compared to standard Bluetooth controllers. Luna also works seamlessly with Amazon devices such as Fire TV, making it possible to turn an ordinary living room television into a gaming hub with almost no setup required. This ease of use, combined with the ability to play instantly from browsers, PCs, and select mobile devices, helps lower the barrier to entry for new gamers and busy families alike.
While Amazon Luna currently streams games in up to Full HD rather than 4K, the visual quality remains consistently smooth and reliable, with little setup or technical know-how required. The platform also benefits from native Twitch integration, making it easy to stream gameplay or watch others with just a few clicks. Overall, Luna’s user-friendly design, flexible channel system, and strong ties to the wider Amazon product family position it as an excellent cloud gaming choice for casual players, families, or anyone already invested in the Amazon ecosystem who wants to explore gaming with as little friction as possible.
GeForce Now
NVIDIA’s GeForce Now has carved out a unique space in the cloud gaming world by focusing on gamers who already own titles across various digital platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, or Ubisoft Connect. Rather than offering its own walled-garden library, GeForce Now enables users to stream the games they’ve already purchased, making it a practical option for those with an established collection who want to enjoy their favorite games on hardware that might otherwise be underpowered. This “bring your own library” approach is particularly appealing for PC gamers who want flexibility and continuity across devices.
Technologically, GeForce Now stands at the forefront of streaming quality and performance. The service supports up to 4K resolution and RTX features—including real-time ray tracing and advanced graphics enhancements—on premium plans, delivering visuals that can rival high-end gaming PCs. The free tier lets new users experience the platform with basic access and shorter session lengths, while paid memberships unlock priority access, extended play sessions, and access to the highest visual settings. This tiered system provides an accessible entry point for casual players and powerful options for those who want a truly premium experience.
One of the greatest strengths of GeForce Now is its broad device compatibility. It works on nearly any modern device, including Windows PCs, Macs, old laptops, Chromebooks, Android phones, and even some smart TVs. This flexibility means you can start a game on your main computer, continue it on your phone, and pick it up again later from your living room TV—all with your progress saved via the original platform. With NVIDIA’s extensive global infrastructure, users also benefit from generally reliable video quality and low input latency, making the service suitable for everything from fast-paced shooters to story-driven adventures. For gamers looking for a versatile, high-performance cloud platform that puts their own game library at the center, GeForce Now remains a top choice.
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming, available as part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, brings together the vast Xbox ecosystem with the convenience and flexibility of cloud streaming. With this service, subscribers get instant access to hundreds of high-quality Xbox games, spanning hit franchises, new releases, and an ever-evolving library that covers nearly every genre imaginable. This massive catalog is constantly updated, with new titles frequently added and some rotating in and out, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.
What truly sets Xbox Cloud Gaming apart is its seamless integration across an exceptionally wide range of devices. Players can launch and play games not only on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, but also on Android and iOS phones, tablets, certain smart TVs, and even via a browser on less powerful laptops or devices. All progress and achievements are saved to the cloud, meaning you can start a session on your phone while out and about, then pick up exactly where you left off on your living room console or PC at home, without skipping a beat. This cross-platform fluidity makes it easy for gamers to fit playtime around their schedules and lifestyles.
Another major advantage is the Game Pass Ultimate bundle itself, which combines cloud gaming with console and PC game libraries, multiplayer access, exclusive member discounts, and perks. This all-in-one subscription is ideal for fans of Xbox’s iconic series—like Halo, Forza, and Gears of War—as well as for anyone who wants a straightforward, cost-effective way to enjoy a huge variety of games across all their devices. With Microsoft’s continued investment in new features, improved streaming quality, and frequent game releases, Xbox Cloud Gaming is positioned as a top pick for those seeking flexibility, value, and a robust gaming experience that travels with them anywhere.
Who is cloud gaming best for?
Cloud gaming is especially ideal for:
- People with entry-level laptops, work PCs, or old hardware who still want to enjoy new games
- Gamers who dislike waiting for downloads, patches, or lengthy installations
- Those searching for a budget-friendly entry into gaming without buying new hardware
- Players who like to switch between multiple devices – laptop, tablet, phone, or TV
- Anyone curious to try gaming with zero setup or technical hassle
Cloud gaming works for both experienced gamers and total newcomers, lowering the barrier to entry for everyone.
Conclusion
In 2025, cloud gaming is more than just a tech trend—it’s a real, growing alternative to traditional gaming setups. The convenience, flexibility, and affordability are hard to beat, and you don’t need to compromise on game quality or experience. If you haven’t given it a try yet, now is the perfect time. You might discover your next “gaming PC” is simply the device you already own, paired with a reliable internet connection.
