Cloud Gaming on Chromebook: How to play any game on ChromeOS [2025]

Last updated on 13. January 2025

Let’s be honest – gaming on a Chromebook hasn’t always been smooth sailing. With limited native support and lower specs, many games just weren’t an option. But thanks to cloud gaming, that’s no longer a problem.

No fancy hardware, no complicated setups – just open your browser, pick a game, and start playing.

Is there cloud gaming on Chromebooks?

Yes, cloud gaming works smoothly on Chromebooks. Most major cloud gaming services support ChromeOS, primarily through browser-based solutions. Since Chromebooks are designed with web use in mind, accessing cloud gaming platforms via Chrome is straightforward and efficient.

What games can you play via cloud gaming on Chromebook?

Thanks to cloud gaming, you can play almost any game on a Chromebook, from AAA titles to indie favorites. Since the heavy processing is handled by remote servers, performance is no longer a concern.

Here’s a quick list of popular games you can stream:

Want to discover more? Check out our full list of cloud games for Chromebooks.

What do you need to play cloud gaming on Chromebook?

Here’s what you need to get started with cloud gaming on a Chromebook:

  • A cloud gaming subscription
    Popular services like GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Boosteroid are supported on Chromebooks. Not sure which one to choose? Check out our guide to the best cloud gaming services for Chromebooks.
  • A Chromebook
    Any modern Chromebook with a recent version of ChromeOS will do. Since the processing happens in the cloud, even entry-level models can handle cloud gaming.
  • A stable internet connection
    Aim for at least 25 Mbps for smooth 1080p gaming. Higher resolutions may require faster speeds. Need tips? Check out our cloud gaming internet speed guide.
  • Optional peripherals
    While a keyboard and mouse work well, a controller can enhance the experience for certain games.

What are the best cloud gaming services for Chromebooks?

Several cloud gaming services work excellently on Chromebooks. Most offer extensive game libraries and seamless performance.

To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the best cloud gaming services for ChromeOS:

  • Shadow PC

    Full-Access-Cloud-PC
    Shadow Cloud Gaming Service

    Available plans

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    Price monthly

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    Games available: 5339

    Game Graphic: Up to 1080p / 144 FPS

    Session Length: unlimited


    Price monthly

    Show price details


    Games available: 5339

    Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 144 FPS

    Session Length: unlimited


    Price monthly

    Show price details


    Games available: 5339

    Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 144 FPS

    Session Length: unlimited


    Price monthly

    Show price details


    Games available: 5339

    Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

    Session Length:


    Available devices

    Show device details

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    Description

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    When it comes to unrestricted gaming experiences, Shadow PC stands out. Shadow gives you full access to a powerful gaming PC in the cloud, ensuring you can play almost any game available for PCs. You can even use it for other things besides gaming, like video rendering or machine learning.

    It’s a whole new level of freedom for gaming enthusiasts. With Shadow PC, your gaming potential is no longer limited by your hardware capabilities. Our Shadow PC games list can be used as an inspiration for what you could play on this Cloud PC.

    You should buy this if…

    • you want maximum freedom to play almost any game.

    • you want to play modded games.

    • you want to use your cloud pc for more than just gaming.

    You shouldn’t buy this if…

    • you don’t want to spend the money.

    • you want a simple plug and play experience without having to manage installations and updates.

    Your perfect match?

    Shadow PC is perfect for PC gaming enthusiasts who crave flexibility and the ability to play an extensive array of games.

  • Boosteroid

    Bring-Your-Own-Games
    Boosteroid Cloud Gaming Preview

    Price monthly

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    Games available: 1005

    Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 120 FPS

    Session Length: unlimited


    Available devices

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    Desktop

    Tablet

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    Description

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    If affordability and quality are high on your list of priorities, then Boosteroid could be the right cloud gaming service for you. At a cost of less than $15 per month, you have access to powerful cloud gaming servers that let you play your own games.

    Notably, AAA games like Elden RingRed Dead Redemption II, and GTA V can be experienced in their full glory. Such a wide range of AAA games is seldom found in this price range. You can visit the current Boosteroid games list to get a better idea of what this service has to offer.

    You should buy this if…

    • you want to play AAA games in the cloud.

    • you want an affordable cloud gaming service.

    • you already own the games you want to play or want to play f2p games.

    You shouldn’t buy this if…

    • you want a service that includes the game licenses.

    • you want to play games that aren’t available or play modded games.

    Your perfect match?

    Boosteroid is the perfect fit for gamers who love AAA games and are seeking a cost-effective cloud gaming service.

  • GeForce Now

    Bring-Your-Own-Games
    Nvidia GeForce Now Preview

    Available plans

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    Price monthly

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    Games available: 2083

    Game Graphic: Up to 1080p / 60 FPS

    Session Length: 1 hour


    Price monthly

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    Games available: 2083

    Game Graphic: Up to 1440p / 60 FPS

    Session Length: 6 hours


    Price monthly

    Show price details


    Games available: 2083

    Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 120 FPS

    Session Length: 8 hours


    Price monthly

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    Games available: 2083

    Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

    Session Length:


    Available devices

    Show device details

    Desktop

    Tablet

    Smartphone

    TV

    Console


    Description

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    Nvidia, a significant contributor to the growth and development of cloud gaming, offers GeForce Now. This cloud gaming service allows you to play your purchased games with impeccable quality for just $10 per month.

    In addition to its affordability, Nvidia GeForce Now also offers a free tier. This allows you to enjoy gaming sessions of up to an hour without paying a dime – a perfect opportunity to get started with cloud gaming, if you have never tried it before. To see what games you could be enjoying, browse through the current Nvidia GeForce Now games list.

    You should buy this if…

    • the games you want to play are available.

    • you want an affordable cloud gaming service.

    • you already own the games you want to play or want to play f2p games.

    You shouldn’t buy this if…

    • you want to play AAA games like GTA V or Elden Ring.

    • you want a service that includes the game licenses.

    • you want to play modded games.

    Your perfect match?

    Nvidia GeForce Now is ideally suited to gamers who already have a substantial game library and value high-quality gaming performance.

Want more options? Check out our complete list of the best cloud gaming services.

How to start cloud gaming on Chromebooks?

Starting cloud gaming on a Chromebook is easy. Here’s how:

  1. Pick a game
    Choose something you want to play. (Tip: Use our search and find out where your favorite game is available.)
  2. Select a provider
    Find a cloud gaming service that supports your game.
  3. Set up and play
    Open Chrome, log in to your chosen service, and start playing.

Need more detailed instructions? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to start cloud gaming on Chromebooks.

Is there any cloud gaming for free on Chromebooks?

Yes, there is a free option. GeForce Now offers a free tier, but it comes with limitations like wait times and session length caps. For a smoother experience, a paid subscription is recommended.

Looking for free games? Check out our list of free cloud games that you can play on Chromebooks.

Is cloud gaming on Chromebook worth it?

Definitely! Cloud gaming on a Chromebook allows you to play games that would otherwise be impossible on low-spec hardware. With cloud gaming, your device’s specs no longer limit your gaming experience.

It’s also cost-effective. Instead of investing in a gaming PC, you can enjoy a high-quality gaming experience on an affordable Chromebook.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you don’t. Since all the processing happens on remote servers, your Chromebook only needs to handle streaming. Even budget Chromebooks can run cloud gaming smoothly.

Yes, most cloud gaming services support controllers on Chromebooks. You can also use a keyboard and mouse if you prefer.

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