Cloud gaming in 2025 is no longer a novelty, but a reliable alternative to traditional hardware setups. Players can now launch demanding titles without a console or gaming PC. All processing happens in the cloud, and the game is streamed directly to the user’s screen, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or old laptop.
This comparison looks at four of the strongest options in the space: Amazon Luna, GeForce NOW, Boosteroid, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Each service approaches cloud gaming differently – whether prioritizing performance, broad compatibility, or all-in-one convenience.
Amazon Luna – Channel-Based Access and Casual-Friendly Design
Amazon Luna takes a unique approach to cloud gaming by offering themed subscription channels, making it an accessible option for families and casual players.
Instead of linking to third-party game libraries, Luna offers a set of curated channels like Luna+, Ubisoft+, and the Family Channel, each with its own set of titles and monthly cost. It’s a flexible model that lets users pay only for the content they’re interested in.
Luna is available on a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Fire TV, Android, iOS (via browser), and select smart TVs. It also integrates with Amazon’s own ecosystem, including Twitch and Prime Gaming, where Prime members can occasionally access a rotating selection of games at no extra cost.
The platform supports both the Luna Controller (which connects directly to the cloud to reduce latency) and standard Bluetooth controllers. However, Luna’s game catalog is smaller than other platforms, and the service currently doesn’t support 4K resolution.
Strengths:
- Channel-based pricing lets users subscribe to what they actually play
- Seamless integration with Fire TV and other Amazon services
- Simple interface and setup, great for casual or family use
- Rotating Prime Gaming benefits for eligible users
Pricing:
Starts at $9.99/month (varies by channel)
Best for:
Casual players or families who want an easy-to-use cloud gaming service with flexible pricing and a simplified library model.
GeForce NOW – For Players Who Already Own Games
Developed by NVIDIA, GeForce NOW is designed for gamers who already have large digital libraries and want to stream them in high quality. Instead of offering a catalog of included games, the service connects to platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect.
GeForce NOW supports over 2,000 games and offers multiple pricing tiers. The Ultimate plan includes access to RTX 4080-class servers, 4K resolution, and up to 120 FPS. The service is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and NVIDIA Shield.
Strengths:
- Supports user-owned games from major distribution platforms
- High-end graphics and real-time ray tracing in premium plans
- Broad device compatibility
- Free tier available to test the service
Pricing:
Free plan
$10.99/month (Performance Plan)
$21.99/month (Ultimate Plan)
Best for:
PC gamers who want to stream the games they already own with minimal compromise in quality.
Boosteroid – Flexible Gaming on Any Screen
Boosteroid is the world’s largest independent cloud gaming provider, operating 27 data centers worldwide. The service is known for its flexibility, with browser access and native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and smart TVs. iOS support is handled through Safari and other mobile browsers.
Boosteroid works with popular game distribution platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, and Ubisoft Connect. Players can stream over 1,200 supported titles. The service includes 4K resolution and 120 FPS support on supported networks, with no session time limits or queues.
As of May 2025, Boosteroid has adopted the AV1 codec across supported devices, improving video compression and reducing bandwidth demands.
Strengths:
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including older hardware
- Supports 4K/120 FPS without additional charges
- Allows users to stream games they already own
- No session limits and unlimited hours per month
- Independent, neutral platform with fast-growing coverage
Pricing:
$9.89/month
$7.49/month with annual Ultra Plan
Best for:
Gamers who want a lightweight, affordable cloud platform to play existing games on almost any device.
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Xbox Cloud Gaming – Subscription Access, Console Integration
Xbox Cloud Gaming is part of Microsoft’s Game Pass Ultimate. It offers cloud access to a rotating library of over 100 games, including new Xbox exclusives on release day. Rather than linking to external game stores, Xbox Cloud Gaming is tied to the Xbox ecosystem.
Games can be played via browser, dedicated apps, or directly from Xbox consoles, with progress syncing across all platforms. This makes the service particularly appealing to users who already play within the Xbox environment.
Strengths:
- Large built-in game catalog
- Seamless sync across console, PC, and mobile
- Access to major releases at launch
- Included in one subscription
Pricing:
$22.99/month (Game Pass Ultimate)
Best for:
Players who prefer subscription access to a curated game library and use Xbox consoles or Windows PCs.
Picking the Right Platform
Cloud gaming is no longer a compromise, but a practical choice depending on the user’s habits and setup.
- Those who already own PC games and want top-tier performance should look at GeForce NOW.
- For broader device compatibility and affordable access to existing libraries, Boosteroid is a strong candidate.
- And for all-in-one convenience with a rotating library, Xbox Cloud Gaming offers excellent value through Game Pass Ultimate.
No matter the preference – ownership vs subscription, PC vs console, visual quality vs simplicity – cloud gaming in 2025 offers real options. All that’s needed is a stable connection and a screen. The rest is streamed.
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