The streaming future is here and gamers are about to have some big decisions to make... Or a whole lot of subscription fees to manage. The idea of a Netflix for gaming is incredibly appealing to a lot of consumers and it seems like shoppers are going to have their pick from a variety of game streaming services that range in quality, price, and selection. Some services basically just providing the streaming platform to connect to a super powerful computer, while others are offering libraries full of AAA titles.
To help shoppers keep all of the details straight and figure out which service is right for them, Game Rant has assembled a list of every currently announced streaming service (or other similar services). There's no clear best option, since each service has its own strengths and weaknesses. Gamers need to review all of the details and figure out which plan is best for their particular needs.
Note: This is an evolving list and it will likely grow and change over time. Be sure to check back for updates and additional details...
Google Stadia (PC, mobile, tablet)
Price: $9.99/month
Release Date: November launch
Details: Google Stadia is a service that allows gamers to take advantage of the powerful Google network for streaming games across multiple devices and all that is really required is a screen, a controller, and reliable internet. The technology is strong and doesn't require super fast internet speeds, but will eat up a fair amount of data, which can be a problem for gamers in some areas. The primary downside to Google Stadia is that there won't be a big library of free games available. Gamers are paying the 10 bucks a month for access to the streaming service, but the vast majority of games will still need to be purchased to be played.
Game Library: 30 games supported at launch, but NOT all are included with subscription. Most games will require a la carte purchases.
Xbox Game Pass (Xbox One)
Price: $9.99/month (14 day free trial available)
Release Date: Available now
Details: Xbox Game Pass (core) is a subscription service that offers gamers access to a huge library of games available to download (and likely stream in the near future) on the Xbox One. The service often includes free access to major Xbox releases at launch. The subscription also includes discounts on many games and DLC packs in the Xbox Store.
Game Library: The library of roughly 100 games does rotate fairly often. That means that players will on occasion lose access to a game that they aren't finished with yet. As far as quality is concerned, the Game Pass library includes a mixed bag, but there are plenty of major hits, AAA titles, and indie darlings to keep subscribers busy for a lot of hours.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (Xbox One, PC)
Price: $14.99/month
Release Date: Available now
Details: The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate plan includes all the benefits of Xbox Live Gold, plus over 100 high-quality console and PC games.
Game Library: The library of roughly 100 games does rotate fairly often. That means that players will on occasion lose access to a game that they aren't finished with yet. As far as quality is concerned, the Game Pass library includes a mixed bag, but there are plenty of major hits, AAA titles, and indie darlings to keep subscribers busy for a lot of hours.
PlayStation Now (PS4, PC)
Price: $20/month or $45/3-month commitment (7 day trial available)
Release Date: Available now
Details: PS Now delivers unlimited access to a growing library of over 750 PS4, PS3, and PS2 games, all with one subscription. Stream directly to your PS4 or PC, and download PS4 & PS2 games to your PS4.
Game Library: The PS Now library is enormous and has some very high quality games. Some of the most popular titles include The Last of Us, Bloodborne, Mortal Kombat X, and Fallout: New Vegas.
EA Access
Price: $4.99/month
Release Date: Available now
Details: It's a video gaming subscription service available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One that lets you play EA's best games as much as you want. The service includes early trials, member discounts, and a large collection of games.
Game Library: If you like EA games, but don't want to pay retail price for every one, this is the service for you. EA Access includes all of the sports franchise you would expect (FIFA, Madden, etc) in addition to Star Wars Battlefront, the Need for Speed franchise, and a decent amount more.
Those are some of the most high profile streaming services that are currently available, but as the technology involves, the marketplace will, as well. Be sure to check back frequently to reevaluate the options and study up on the best value for your gaming needs.