Best Cloud Gaming Platforms for 2025: Save Money and Play Anywhere
Cloud gaming has reshaped the way players access top-tier games, delivering console-quality experiences on everyday devices without the steep price of gaming hardware.
In 2025, gaming is no longer tied to expensive PCs or consoles. Cloud gaming services let players run AAA games on budget laptops, tablets, or smartphones, simply by streaming the gameplay from a remote server. Whether at home, in a hotel room, or commuting on mobile data, cloud gaming offers access to blockbuster titles without requiring big hardware investments.
This article compares four of the best cloud gaming services – Xbox Cloud Gaming, Boosteroid, GeForce NOW, and Amazon Luna, helping you pick the one that best matches your needs and budget.
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming is Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, bundled with the Game Pass Ultimate subscription. It provides access to a large rotating catalog of Xbox games, including first-party exclusives and popular third-party releases, all playable on Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, smartphones, tablets, and supported browsers.
The service is designed for smooth integration across Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem, offering cloud saves, cross-platform syncing, and simple access without the need to buy individual games. While Xbox Cloud Gaming doesn’t support external game libraries like Steam or Epic, its all-in-one subscription model makes it appealing to gamers looking for convenience and breadth.
Why it’s a smart pick:
- One subscription provides access to hundreds of Xbox games
- Works across a wide range of devices, including consoles, PCs, and mobile
- Cross-platform syncing ensures seamless play between devices
- Strong global server network provides stable connections
Best for:
Gamers who value simplicity and want an all-in-one package, especially those already using Xbox services or seeking a family-friendly solution.
Boosteroid
Boosteroid has become one of the world’s most popular cloud gaming services, standing out because it is not owned by a large tech conglomerate or investment fund. The platform supports over 1,200 games and integrates with major game stores like Steam and Epic Games Store. Today it stands as the largest independent competitor on the cloud gaming market.
With 27 data centers across Europe, North America, and Latin America, Boosteroid delivers consistently low-latency gaming to millions of users. It can be accessed through modern browsers or dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and smart TVs, ensuring wide device compatibility.
Since 2025, Boosteroid has adopted the AV1 codec across supported devices, which allows it to deliver higher-quality video streams at lower bitrates improving performance on slower connections and making the platform even more data-efficient. Combined with support for 4K resolution, 120 FPS, and Radeon-based technologies like Super Resolution, Boosteroid offers an impressively high-end experience at a lower cost.
Why it’s a smart pick:
- Streams games you already own from multiple game libraries
- Up to 4K and 120 FPS streaming on capable networks
- AV1 codec improves streaming efficiency and quality
- Affordable pricing compared to many competitors
- No session or monthly time limits
Best for:
Players who want maximum flexibility and strong international coverage, especially if they already own games on PC platforms and want to access them from anywhere.
GeForce NOW
GeForce NOW by NVIDIA is a cloud gaming powerhouse, designed for players who already own a large library of PC games. Supporting over 2,000 titles from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect, GeForce NOW lets users stream their existing games without buying them again.
The service offers multiple tiers, including a free plan with session limits and a top-tier Ultimate plan running on RTX 4080-class hardware, delivering 4K resolution, 120 FPS, ray tracing, and DLSS support. Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and NVIDIA Shield TV, it offers flexibility for gamers who demand high performance across devices.
Why it’s a smart pick:
- Delivers cutting-edge visuals with RTX and DLSS
- Supports a massive existing game library
- Available across nearly all major devices
- Free tier allows players to test the service risk-free
Best for:
Performance-focused gamers who want to maximize their existing PC game investments and enjoy ultra-quality visuals on the go.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna uses a channel-based subscription model, letting players choose specific content bundles such as Luna+ (general games), Ubisoft+ (Ubisoft’s catalog), and the Family Channel (kid-friendly titles). Available on Fire TV, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and compatible smart TVs, Luna emphasizes easy access and tight integration with Amazon services like Prime Gaming and Twitch.
While Luna currently streams at a maximum of 1080p, it’s well-suited for casual players, families, and those looking for curated, ready-to-play content.
Why it’s a smart pick:
- Flexible subscriptions tailored to specific audiences
- Integrates well with the Amazon ecosystem and devices
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS browsers
- Optional Luna Controller connects directly to the cloud, reducing input lag
Best for:
Families or casual gamers who want themed game bundles and tight integration with Amazon services.
Why Cloud Gaming Might Be Your Smartest Tech Upgrade
Cloud gaming doesn’t just reduce upfront hardware costs; it also cuts long-term expenses on electricity, hardware upgrades, and installation time. Many platforms let you stream games you already own, and most offer free or affordable entry plans, making it easier than ever to access high-quality gaming without overspending.
Summary: Play Anywhere, Spend Less
In 2025, cloud gaming puts choice and flexibility in the hands of players:
- Boosteroid offers affordable, flexible access to personal game libraries, with 4k streaming and global reach.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming delivers an all-in-one gaming subscription with access to hundreds of games.
- GeForce NOW is the ultimate choice for players who want high-end performance using their own PC game collections.
- Amazon Luna focuses on curated, family-friendly subscriptions that are easy to use and integrate into everyday devices.
Choose the platform that fits your play style and enjoy gaming from anywhere, without breaking the bank.