Netflix is ‘seriously exploring’ a cloud gaming service
Netflix is known for its streaming service that offers movies and TV shows, but the company is now ‘seriously exploring’ a cloud gaming service, according to a report from The Information. The report claims that Netflix has been in talks with game developers and publishers about licensing their games for a cloud gaming service, which would be similar to services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud. Netflix has not confirmed the report, but it’s not surprising given the company’s recent expansion into interactive content with its ‘Black Mirror: Bandersnatch’ movie. If Netflix does launch a cloud gaming service, it would be a major challenge to existing services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud.
What is cloud gaming?
Netflix is “seriously exploring” a cloud gaming service, according to a Wall Street Journal report. The streaming giant is reportedly in talks with several companies about launching a cloud gaming service that would work with its existing app.
The news comes as Netflix is preparing to launch its own game, Stranger Things 3: The Game, which will be available on the company’s app later this month. It’s unclear if the cloud gaming service would be launched alongside the game or at a later date.
Cloud gaming is a type of online gaming that allows users to play games without having to download them or store them on their devices. Games are instead stored on and run from remote servers, and streamed to players over the internet.
The benefits of cloud gaming include being able to play games on any device with an internet connection, as well as not having to worry about storage space or graphics capabilities. The downside is that it can require a strong internet connection and may not be compatible with all devices.
What are the benefits of cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming services offer a number of benefits over traditional gaming platforms. First, they are much more scalable and can support a larger number of users. Second, they offer a more immersive gaming experience, as users can play games in real-time with no lag. Third, cloud gaming services are much more affordable than traditional gaming platforms, as they do not require expensive hardware or software. Finally, cloud gaming services offer a more social gaming experience, as users can connect with friends and family members around the world.
What are the challenges of cloud gaming?
It’s no secret that Netflix has been eyeing the gaming industry for some time now. The streaming giant has already dipped its toes in the water with the release of several high-profile games, including Stranger Things 3: The Game and Minecraft: Story Mode. But could Netflix be looking to take things one step further with a cloud gaming service?
According to a recent report from The Information, Netflix is “seriously exploring” the possibility of launching a cloud gaming platform. This would allow gamers to stream games directly from the Netflix app, without having to download or install them on their own devices.
There are a number of challenges that come with launching a cloud gaming service, however. For one, it would require a significant investment in infrastructure. Netflix would need to partner with companies like Microsoft or Amazon, who already have the necessary data centers and server capacity.
Another challenge is latency. When you’re streaming a movie or TV show on Netflix, there’s generally only a few seconds of lag between when you hit play and when the video starts playing. But with games, even a slight delay can ruin the experience. That’s why Google Stadia and other existing cloud gaming services have been struggling to gain traction—because they simply don’t offer the same level of quality as traditional gaming platforms like Xbox and PlayStation.
Finally, there’s the issue of price. Cloud gaming services are notoriously expensive—Google Stadia costs $9.99 per month, on top of the
How would a Netflix cloud gaming service work?
There are many ways that a Netflix cloud gaming service could work. One way would be for Netflix to partner with existing cloud gaming providers such as Parsec or Vortex. Another way would be for Netflix to build its own cloud gaming infrastructure and offer the service directly to subscribers.
Netflix has the resources to build its own cloud gaming infrastructure, but it would be a costly undertaking. The company would need to invest in servers, networking equipment, and software. It would also need to hire experienced game developers to create games specifically for the service.
The advantage of partnering with existing cloud gaming providers is that Netflix could get up and running quickly and without incurring the cost of building its own infrastructure. The disadvantage is that Netflix would be reliant on those providers and their technology. If they were to experience any technical difficulties, it could impact the quality of the Netflix service.
The advantage of building its own infrastructure is that Netflix would have more control over the quality of the service. The disadvantage is that it would take longer to get up and running, and it would be a more costly investment.
What other companies are offering cloud gaming services?
There are a few companies that have already dipped their toes in the cloud gaming service, including Sony, Microsoft, and Nvidia.
Sony offers its PlayStation Now service, which allows PS4 owners to stream a library of PS3 games to their console. The service costs $20 per month or $45 for three months.
Microsoft announced its Project xCloud preview last year, which lets users stream Xbox One games to their smartphones or tablets. The company is also working on bringing Game Pass to the cloud, so subscribers can play any game in the library on any device. There’s no word on pricing yet, but Microsoft has said it will be “competitive.”
Nvidia GeForce Now is one of the more affordable options out there, starting at $4.99 per month. It gives users access to a library of PC games that they can stream on their Mac or PC, as well as Shield TV devices.