Exploring Cloud Gaming: Pros and Cons of Streaming vs. Downloads
Cloud gaming has become the industry’s hot topic in recent developments and could be the beginning of the next revolution in how games are sold, played, and stored. The emergent technology leverages the power of the cloud to sell, store, and stream video games rather than relying on the conventions of physical copies or downloads. By using remote servers, games can be played straight from a console or device, removing the need for lengthy download times.
Companies such as http://www.slotozilla.com already host a whole array of virtual slots to stream and play, but the technology has moved even further to also include AAA titles. This emergent technology comes with a long list of advantages, but there are still a lot of challenges to overcome that prevent it from being the total solution for the future of gaming.
We can take a look at just what it is that makes this technology a possible revolution in the industry, and just what is holding it back when compared with downloading.
Key Points for Downloading And Cloud Gaming
There are considerations that need to be observed when choosing between cloud gaming and streaming. Choosing the convenience of cloud gaming, although tempting, can’t be for everyone.
- Internet speeds and data
- Budget
- Compatibility
- Storage space
- Multiplayer and latency
Cloud Gaming as the Logical Next Step
There are many reasons Cloud gaming could be the next logical step in gaming. Companies like Google brought out the Stadia platform, which was almost the answer to a console-free life. However, it had its own issues and a terrible execution. There are many pros to cloud gaming as a valid option.
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No More Consoles
The Google Stadia was a prime example of how, with a Dongle and Controller, any screen can become a console. The Stadia streamed a huge library of games to anything it was plugged into, simply using the power of a high-speed internet connection. This removed the need for expensive consoles or PCs and saved a lot of space and electricity.
Gaming at the Click of a Finger
Download times, although improving, are still a lengthy process, especially if you want to switch up your library often. Modern AAA games are often over 100GB and are a drain on time and storage space. With cloud gaming, enormous libraries are instantly available with no download times.
Kind to Your Hard Drive
Storage space is an ever-growing problem in the gaming industry. Even the PlayStation 5 came with the option of a 250GB SSD which equates to about 2 AAA games. With cloud streaming, a much smaller hard drive can be used, and large games can still be enjoyed.
Community Play
Due to cloud gaming’s off-console nature, cross-platform play is almost always available. This brings together players from many different platforms for multiplayer and allows for cross-progression saves.
Why Isn’t Cloud Gaming Everywhere
Despite the clear benefits of streaming games, it is rare that you will actually see them in practice. There are a few very good reasons for this.
Internet Speeds
Cloud gaming is completely reliant on a fast and stable internet connection. However, some countries may not have the infrastructure to support such connections, resulting in low-quality or impossible streaming.
Slave to the Subscription
Like any subscription service, cloud gaming will cost a monthly fee compared to a one-off payment for a download or physical copy. The fees can be staggeringly high currently, and the game is never really owned, merely rented.
Limited Titles
Any game cannot simply be uploaded and ready for streaming. It needs to be optimised first. This means that there is always going to be a limited library to play with on any streaming service compared to downloading.
Digging Into Data
Although downloading will use a lot of data, it can be calculated and managed. Streaming games from the cloud will use a significant amount over time and can easily go way above data limits.
Comparing the Options
Consider the following comparison table showcasing key features of cloud streaming versus downloaded games:
| Feature | Cloud Streaming | Downloaded Games |
| Accessibility | Playable on various devices | Requires compatible hardware |
| Convenience | No downloads or updates needed | Requires downloads and updates |
| Storage | Minimal local storage needed | Significant storage required |
| Latency | Depends on the internet connection | Local processing |
| Game Library | Depends on service | Extensive libraries available |
| Cost | Potentially high long-term | Varies by game |
| Internet Requirement | Constant, stable connection needed | Only needed for downloads/updates |
| Data Usage | Continuous streaming | High for downloads, low for play |
Cloud vs Downloads
What it comes down to is the technology just not quite being there. Using a Google Stadia was fantastic until the service went offline, and it was discontinued. All of a sudden, the whole library, all saves, and progress were simply lost. Also, anytime there was a bad connection, games were unplayable. Perhaps in the next 10 years, as mobile data improves, cloud gaming will become the norm. For now, physical and downloaded games reign supreme.
Final Thoughts
Cloud gaming and traditional downloads vie for dominance in the gaming realm. While cloud gaming offers instant access to vast libraries and cross-platform play, challenges like high-speed internet reliance and subscription fees hinder its widespread adoption. Despite its promise, technological constraints and infrastructure challenges limit its acceptance, leaving traditional downloads as the preferred choice for many gamers.
