National Video Game Day - Video Game Subscription and Streaming Services

    

Streaming services aren't just for movies and TV shows these days. A video game streaming service allows you to play games without owning a console or a high-end gaming PC. These services provide access to remote hardware, allowing you to play games on various devices you already own. In honor of National Video Game Day, let's go over the benefits to these services and provide some examples of services you can try out today!


Some of the benefits to these services include:

1. Cost-Effective: Subscriptions often provide access to a wide range of games at a fixed monthly fee, which can be more economical than purchasing individual games.
2. Game Variety: Subscription services offer a diverse library of games, allowing you to explore different genres and titles without committing to full purchases.
3. No Hardware Constraints: You can play games on various devices, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, without needing high-end hardware.
4. Instant Access: No need to wait for downloads or installations; simply stream the games and start playing immediately.
5. Regular Updates: Many services include free game additions each month, keeping your gaming experience fresh.
6. Cloud Gaming: Some subscriptions offer cloud gaming, allowing you to play on the go without downloading large files.

Just like with regular TV streaming providers there are quite a few to choose from, below are several examples.


Amazon Luna is Amazon’s cloud gaming platform that allows you to play a variety of games on devices you already own. 

1. Game Streaming: Luna lets you play games without lengthy downloads or updates. It’s like having a powerful gaming PC in the cloud, accessible from your screen.
2. Cross-Device Play: You can switch seamlessly between devices without losing progress. Whether you’re on your smartphone, Fire TV, PC, or tablet.
3. Game Library: Luna offers a curated selection of games across different “channels": Luna+: This channel includes a catalog of “new and favorite” games.
4. Other Channels: Premium games are available through additional channels (e.g., Ubisoft+). You can even play on these channels without subscribing to Luna+.
5. Luna Controller: While not strictly required, the Luna Controller enhances the experience. It integrates Alexa, making navigation easier, and bridges devices for seamless play.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is an all-in-one subscription service that provides access to a vast library of high-quality games across multiple platforms. 

1. Game Variety: With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you get unlimited access to over 100 games for both console and PC.
2. Cloud Gaming: Ultimate includes cloud gaming, allowing you to stream games directly to your mobile device or PC.
3. Xbox Live Gold: Ultimate combines Xbox Game Pass with Xbox Live Gold.
4. Cross-Platform Play: Whether you’re on your Xbox console, PC, or cloud, your progress carries over seamlessly.
5. Exclusive Perks: Ultimate members enjoy additional perks, such as in-game content, partner offers, and discounts.

Netflix Gaming is a service offered by Netflix that allows users to play games online. 

1. Game Library: Netflix Gaming provides access to more than 50 exclusive mobile games. These games are included with your Netflix membership and can be downloaded on Android phones, tablets, iPhones, iPads, and iPod touch devices.
2. No Extra Fees: There are no ads, no in-app purchases, and no additional charges for playing these games. Once you’re a Netflix subscriber, you have unlimited access to the gaming library.

Apple Arcade is a game subscription service offered by Apple. It provides unlimited access to a growing collection of over 200 premium games without any ads or in-app purchases. 

1. Game Variety: Apple Arcade includes a diverse range of games across various genres, such as puzzle, strategy, adventure, simulation, board, card, sports, and more. You’ll find both new releases and beloved favorites from the App Store.
2. Cross-Device Play: You can start a game on one device (like your iPhone) and seamlessly continue playing on another (such as your iPad, Mac, or Apple TV) without missing a beat.
3. Family Sharing: Share your Apple Arcade subscription with up to five family members. Everyone gets their own personalized gaming experience.
4. No Extra Costs: There are no additional charges beyond the monthly subscription fee. All games within Apple Arcade are included, and you won’t encounter any in-game purchases.

While these aren't all the subscription services available, they provide an excellent launching point to start playing some excellent games, and as always if you need help with anything streaming or smart home related you can contact us at 309-778-8611 or by emailing us at OneSource@midcentury.com