6 Google Stadia Alternatives For 2024: Exploring The Best Cloud Gaming Platforms

If you’re disappointed with the shutdown of Google Stadia, there are many alternative cloud gaming platforms to explore. In this article, we will discuss 6 top alternatives to Google Stadia for a great cloud gaming experience in 2024. From Xbox Cloud Gaming to PSNow, we’ll provide you with all the details you need to make an informed choice. Let’s dive in!

1. Xbox Cloud Gaming

Xbox Cloud Gaming by Microsoft is a great alternative to Google Stadia, especially for casual gamers. With a vast library of games, including popular titles like Fortnite, Xbox Cloud Gaming surpasses Stadia in terms of game variety. However, it may have higher gaming latency, requiring a reliable internet connection of at least 10 Mbps.

Pros of Xbox Cloud Gaming:

Large collection of games
Budget-friendly bundle offers with affordable subscriptions
Multiple controller support

Cons of Xbox Cloud Gaming:

Higher gaming latency
Requires more servers for better performance

Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows, Smart TV Samsung, Xbox console
Price: Xbox Ultimate Game Pass subscribers can access Xbox Cloud Gaming for $15 monthly.

2. GeForce Now

GeForce Now is a popular alternative to Google Stadia, as it allows you to play your favorite games on almost any device. It offers an extensive collection of games, including popular titles like Genshin Impact and Fortnite. Players can connect their accounts from platforms like Steam and Epic Games to access those games through GeForce Now. It also supports ray-tracing gaming but may have potential issues with resolution and latency.

Pros of GeForce Now:

Ability to connect different platform accounts
Availability of Fortnite for iOS users
Compatibility with a wide range of devices
Large collection of games

Cons of GeForce Now:

Potential issues with resolution and latency

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Chrome, Shield TV, Android TV, iOS, and more
Price: Can be used for free for 1 hour, with a membership starting at $8.99 per month. RTC-supported gaming is priced at $19.99 per month.

3. Luna

Luna, offered by Amazon, has gained popularity among gamers, especially those who enjoy Ubisoft games. With an affordable price and a diverse game selection, Luna is expected to attract a significant number of users after Google Stadia’s shutdown. Although it may not match Stadia in terms of latency and gaming quality, Luna offers a variety of games at a lower price, including popular titles from Ubisoft, such as the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

Pros of Luna:

Availability of all Ubisoft games
Affordable pricing
A diverse collection of genres

Cons of Luna:

Some mainstream games may be missing

Compatibility: Chromebook, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, Fire Tablet, and more
Price: Some games are free for Amazon Prime subscribers, while Luna starts at $5.99 per month for others.

4. PS Now/PlayStation Now

PlayStation Now, Sony’s cloud gaming service, offers an extensive game library and combines PS Plus and PS Now. It allows access to all games available on PlayStation, including popular titles like GTA 5, Spider-Man, and God of War. However, PS Now is exclusively accessible on Windows and select PlayStation devices.

Pros of PS Now:

Minimum internet requirement for gameplay
PS Plus benefits
Availability of popular games

Cons of PS Now:

Limited accessibility (only Windows and select PlayStation devices)

Compatibility: PlayStation devices with Windows
Price: Exclusive to PS Plus members, starting at $17.99 per month.

5. Steam Link

Steam Link provides a distinctive cloud gaming experience by transforming your gaming machine into a power source for other devices like TVs, tablets, and laptops, enabling you to play games wherever you desire. It offers diverse controllers for a personalized gaming experience.

Pros of Steam Link:

Support for multiple controller types
Remote Play feature enables gameplay anywhere
Local cast gameplay system

Cons of Steam Link:

Requires a powerful host device (PC system)

Compatibility: Windows, SteamOS, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more
Price: Free to use, but games must be purchased separately.

6. Parsec

Parsec prioritizes high frames-per-second (FPS) gaming with low latency. It offers an exceptional remote access system, allowing you to connect to your PC and launch games quickly and easily. With Parsec, you can play any game at 60+ FPS with minimal lag, and it also supports multiplayer gaming.

Pros of Parsec:

Multiplayer gaming capability
Remote system with high FPS and low latency
Availability of arcade games

Cons of Parsec:

Requires a powerful PC system

Compatibility: macOS, Chromium, Android, Linux, Raspberry Pi 3, and more
Price: Free plan available, with premium plans starting at $9.99 per month.

In conclusion, despite the shutdown of Google Stadia, there are still plenty of alternatives available for gamers to enjoy cloud gaming. Each alternative has its own strengths and weaknesses, so take the time to explore and find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Happy gaming!

FAQs

Why is Google shutting down Stadia?

Google decided to shut down Stadia due to the lack of active users, making it unsustainable to continue the service. The shutdown is scheduled for January 2023.

Are there any alternatives to Google Stadia?

Yes, there are several alternatives to Google Stadia that provide similar cloud gaming experiences. Some of the top options include Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Luna, PS Now, Steam Link, Parsec, The Gaming Project, and OVHcloud.

How do these alternatives compare to Google Stadia?

Each alternative has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, Xbox Cloud Gaming offers a large collection of games, but gaming latency may be higher. GeForce Now supports ray tracing gaming, but resolution and latency could be issues. We recommend exploring each alternative to find the one that suits your preferences.

What platforms are these alternatives compatible with?

The compatibility varies depending on the alternative. Xbox Cloud Gaming is compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Samsung Smart TVs, and Xbox consoles. GeForce Now is available on Windows, macOS, Chrome, Shield TV, Android TV, iOS, and more. Luna can be accessed on Chromebook, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and various Amazon devices. PS Now is exclusive to Windows and select PlayStation devices. Steam Link works on Windows, SteamOS, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and more. Parsec supports macOS, Chromium, Android, Linux, Raspberry Pi 3, and more. The Gaming Project is compatible with Android, Windows, and Chromium. OVHcloud can be accessed on any device after installing the games.

How much do these alternatives cost?

The pricing varies for each alternative. Xbox Cloud Gaming is available to Xbox Ultimate Game Pass subscribers for $15 per month. GeForce Now can be used for free for 1 hour, or you can opt for a membership starting at $8.99 per month. Luna starts at $5.99 per month for non-Amazon Prime subscribers. PS Now starts at $17.99 per month for PS Plus members. Steam Link is free to use, but you need to purchase the games you want to play. Parsec offers a free plan, with the premium plan starting at $9.99 per month. The Gaming Project has a free service, as well as a subscription plan starting at Rs.199 per month. OVHcloud pricing details can be found on their website.