Curious about NVIDIA GeForce Now? Here’s your ultimate primer.
GeForce Now, NVIDIA’s cloud gaming platform, offers unparalleled gaming experiences without the need for high-end hardware. By leveraging powerful servers, GeForce Now allows users to stream their favorite games to virtually any device, from low-spec laptops to smartphones.
But what sets GeForce Now apart?
Firstly, its versatility. With GeForce Now, gamers gain access to an extensive library of titles, including AAA blockbusters and indie gems, all available at their fingertips.
Secondly, its convenience. No more lengthy downloads or installations. Simply log in, select your game, and start playing instantly.
Moreover, GeForce Now supports cross-platform play, enabling seamless gaming experiences across various devices.
GeForce Now isn’t just for individual gamers. It also offers options for families with shared memberships, ensuring everyone can enjoy their favorite games without breaking the bank.
In summary, NVIDIA GeForce Now redefines gaming accessibility, delivering high-quality experiences to gamers worldwide, regardless of their hardware limitations.
Earlier this year, NVIDIA announced a new service, GeForce Now, after several years of development. Unlike the previous version on SHIELD devices, this iteration has the potential to revolutionize gaming. Currently in beta, it’s limited to the United States and Canada. Users who register for early access may receive activation codes randomly. While PC users gained access in February, Mac users gained access more recently. Before rushing to sign up for the beta, let’s explore what NVIDIA GeForce Now entails:
Introducing NVIDIA GeForce Now
GeForce Now, a cloud-based gaming service by NVIDIA, offers gamers a Virtual Private Server (VPS). Subscribing grants you a virtual PC in the cloud, powered by the latest NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics cards for optimal performance. Access your personal game library from Steam or Origin and start playing immediately by remotely accessing your virtual computer from any modern Windows or Mac machine. Enjoy high-end computing via subscription, saving you the hassle and expense of sourcing and building your own system.
NVIDIA GeForce Now – The Hardware
Let’s delve into the hardware driving these high-end cloud computers. NVIDIA offers two hardware configurations, priced accordingly, allowing you to choose based on your performance needs. For those seeking to handle most games at 1080p/60 fps with minimal frame drops, the GeForce GTX 1060-powered virtual PC suffices. Yet, if uncompromising performance is non-negotiable, NVIDIA’s GeForce GTX 1080-powered cloud computer is the optimal choice, capable of maintaining a stable 60 fps while delivering top-tier graphical fidelity. Both configurations feature Intel Core i7 processors and liquid cooling for optimal thermal performance during intense gaming.
System & Internet Requirements
GeForce Now excels by eliminating the need for powerful hardware; the cloud computer handles all processing. Any modern computer with Windows or macOS can easily handle GeForce Now. However, a high-speed internet connection is essential. You’ll need a minimum of 25 Mbps download speed to stream video from the cloud computer. NVIDIA suggests 50 Mbps for smooth 1080p/60 fps streaming. For optimal performance, users should use a hardwired ethernet connection or a 5 GHz-capable wireless router, as the common 2.4 GHz band falls short.
Who Needs NVIDIA GeForce Now?
Designed for those who can’t invest thousands in a high-end gaming rig and for MacBook or iMac users lacking graphical power for top-tier gaming. Subscribing to this service lets you play games seamlessly on your ultrabook while away from your main setup.
Pricing and Availability
The GeForce Now cloud gaming service is in beta for Mac users, offering free access during this phase. The previous free beta for PC users has concluded.
Once NVIDIA releases GeForce Now to the public, you can avail it on a pay-as-you-go basis. The GeForce GTX 1060 machine will cost $25 for 20 hours of game time, while the higher-end GeForce GTX 1080 machine will also be $25 for 10 hours. Availability details remain undisclosed, but it’s anticipated to launch by the end of 2017.
NVIDIA GeForce Now vs LiquidSky
Before the official announcement of NVIDIA GeForce Now, a popular cloud-based gaming service, LiquidSky, garnered over 1 million beta sign-ups. Now available to the public, we’re intrigued to compare it with NVIDIA’s offering.
You can choose between two plans from LiquidSky using the company’s SkyCredits currency. These SkyCredits can be earned for free or purchased on a pay-as-you-go or monthly basis. The pay-as-you-go option starts at $4.99 and the monthly option starts at $9.99, providing over 2400 SkyCredits. Particularly enticing is the free option, allowing you to earn SkyCredits by engaging with the company’s ad partners. With these SkyCredits, you can access either the Gamer or Pro plan, priced at 60 and 120 SkyCredits/hour, respectively. The Gamer plan includes 2 GB of GPU VRAM, 8 GB of memory, and 3 CPU Cores, while the Pro plan offers 4 GB of GPU VRAM, 16 GB of memory, and 6 CPU Cores. Notably, LiquidSky hasn’t disclosed the processor or graphics card model used in their cloud machines, which is disappointing.
Pitting these specs against GeForce Now, opting for NVIDIA yields better performance, with GTX 1060 and GTX 1080 graphics cards boasting 6 GB and 8 GB GDDR5 VRAM respectively. Based on Pascal architecture, these cards excel in performance unmatched by competitors. However, in terms of pricing, LiquidSky appears to win, offering nearly 50 hours of game time for $25, especially with the Monthly SkyCredits plan, more than double NVIDIA’s offering. Yet, if top performance is your priority, choose GeForce Now once it launches, as LiquidSky lacks the horsepower for consistent 1080p/60 fps on the latest games.
Excited for NVIDIA GeForce Now?
If you’re frequently on the move with an underpowered laptop like a MacBook that can barely run games, subscribing to a cloud-based gaming service like NVIDIA GeForce Now allows gaming without sacrificing portability. However, if you already own a gaming laptop, paying for this service may not be worthwhile unless you’ll be away from your machine for several days. Skeptical about paying $25 for around 20 hours of service? Register and try the free beta available for Mac users in the US and Canada before judging. Interested in trying GeForce Now? Share your thoughts on NVIDIA’s cloud-based gaming service in the comments below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
