Why cloud gaming won't be video games' Netflix moment

Modified Jun 28, 2024 20:37 GMT

Cloud gaming still needs some work to be fully functional (Image via Unsplash/@onurbinay)

Cloud gaming is pivotal for those who want to play on the go without relying on a capable gaming rig or storing numerous physical game copies. While game streaming has been around for quite some time, the advancements aren't as significant yet. It would be hard to replicate what Netflix did with movies and shows in the gaming industry.

Game streaming faces many hurdles and little setbacks that prevent it from reaching its potential. Currently, the whole cloud gaming scene is a little questionable and far from perfect. In this article, let's discuss the reasons why cloud gaming still has a long way to go.

Latency and bandwidth issues

There is a high risk of latency-related issues when it comes to online streaming of games (Image via Unsplash/@onurbinay)

The biggest factors that make cloud gaming undesirable are latency and bandwidth issues. Laggy performance is a moodkill and even the slightest delay can change the whole scenario in fast-paced multiplayer games.

As game streaming takes place on the cloud, all data is processed and sent back directly from the servers and most of the time, latency is kept close to a minimum. Also, the higher the quality and resolution, the greater the strain on data transfer and bandwidth requirements.

Solutions to this include choosing the right servers and having faster signal-processing monitors, which can significantly improve gameplay.

Slow internet speeds

Internet speeds are a big factor when it comes to game streaming (Image via Unsplash/@kommumikation)

High-speed internet is still a limiting factor for many and a big reason why people don't opt for game streaming. The average internet speeds required for a good online gaming experience are higher than what you'd need for video streaming. Even if the majority of users have good speeds, it is still quite difficult to have smooth, lag-free gameplay.

Moreover, even if you have a 100 Mbps connection, it does not necessarily mean you will get 100 Mbps in practice. Connection quality is essential and game streaming can be quite frustrating without it.

Cloud gaming isn't established enough to be an alternative

Xbox is working on their cloud game streaming platform (Image via Xbox)

As mentioned above, cloud game streaming has been around for a long time and was first introduced at the E3 (2000). However, it still hasn't established solid ground and can be called a work-in-progress. The video game industry is a highly competitive one and adapting to a streaming format can be quite difficult.

Part of the reason Netflix could rapidly grow its subscriber base was that it had a unique selling point and offered a compelling alternative to cable TV. However, implementing that into the video game industry can be quite tricky because factors like supporting hardware, latency, and the internet are still major obstacles to overcome.

Also read: Xbox Cloud Gaming supported games, regions, controllers, and more

Cloud gaming isn't attracting as many gamers as it should

Online game streaming on a tablet (Image via Unsplash/@isword)

Game streaming offers several benefits such as the ability to play high-end games on low-end devices like tablets or smartphones. You don't always have to download or update the game, and at times, you also get early access to newer titles. However, despite all these benefits essentially solving all major issues of gamers, it is still not something that's sought after or liked by the masses.

The above-mentioned reasons, along with the subscription prices, are some of the main hurdles, and most of the time, the only factors that limit cloud gaming from reaching its full potential. Another aspect would be the lack of awareness or accessibility.

Many gamers are still unaware of game streaming from the cloud. This can be solved by better marketing strategies and making the service more affordable to appeal to the masses.

A massive chunk of the world's population can't access cloud gaming

Game streaming subscriptions can be quite pricey sometimes (Image via Unsplash/@jeshoots)

As mentioned earlier, a lot of people are still unaware of game streaming and oblivious to its benefits. However, some are aware but simply can't access it due to a lack of stable internet connectivity and a limited number of gaming devices.

Even in the most developed countries, the rural areas lack access to high-speed internet and this becomes a big problem for the vast majority.

To make cloud streaming truly accessible to a wider audience, companies will have to invest in infrastructure and technology to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the necessary resources. More stable internet connections and servers can be the key to making cloud gaming mainstream.

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Edited by Virat Fumakia