Cloud Gaming on PC » Play Any Game on Any Windows PC [2026]

Q: Do you need a powerful PC for cloud gaming?

No, you don’t. All the heavy processing is done by remote servers, so your PC just needs to handle streaming. Even older Windows PCs work fine as long as you have a modern browser and a stable internet connection.

Q: Can you play with controllers on the Windows PC via cloud gaming?

Yes, most cloud gaming platforms support controllers. However, you can also stick with a keyboard and mouse if that’s your preference.

Ever wanted to play the latest games, but your PC couldn’t handle them? Cloud gaming solves that problem. It lets you stream high-end games on any Windows PC, no matter how old your setup is.

All you need is a stable internet connection, and you’re good to go. Let’s dive into the details and see how cloud gaming on PC works.

Is there cloud gaming on PC?

Yes, cloud gaming works perfectly on Windows. Most of the best cloud gaming services fully support Windows PCs, offering dedicated apps or browser-based solutions. Whether you prefer using a lightweight browser or downloading an app, both options work seamlessly on Windows.

Browser tip: For the best experience, use Google Chrome or another cloud gaming browser.

What games can you play via cloud gaming on Windows?

Pretty much any game you want. Cloud gaming gives you access to a massive range of titles, from AAA blockbusters like Marvel Rivals, Path of Exile 2 or GTA 5 to indie favorites. Whether you’re into action, RPGs, or multiplayer games, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s a quick list of popular games available via cloud gaming on PC:

Automation – The Car Company Tycoon Game

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Poppy Playtime

Subnautica

Spelunky 2

Among Us

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII

Stumble Guys

God of War Ragnarök

Want to explore more titles? Check out our full list of cloud games for Windows.

What do I need to play cloud gaming on PC?

Here’s what you’ll need to get started with cloud gaming on your Windows PC:

A cloud gaming subscription:
Services like GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Boosteroid are popular choices. Not sure which one to pick? Check out our guide to the best cloud gaming services for Windows.
A Windows PC:
It doesn’t matter if you have a high-end gaming rig or a basic laptop. As long as your PC can run a browser or app, you’re set.
A stable internet connection:
For smooth 1080p gaming, aim for at least 25 Mbps. If you want 4K resolution, you’ll need a faster connection. Need help optimizing your setup? Check out our cloud gaming internet speed guide.
Optional peripherals:
A keyboard and mouse work perfectly fine, but a game controller can improve the experience, especially for certain genres.

What are the best cloud gaming services for Windows?

With so many services available, finding the best one can be tricky. Some offer vast game libraries, while others focus on performance or unique features.

Let’s take a look at some of the best cloud gaming services for Windows users:

Shadow PC

Full-Access-Cloud-PC

Available plans

Neo
Power

Price monthly

€32.99
1 month plan

Features

Games available: 9715

Game Graphic: Up to 1440p / 120 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: 4 to 8 hours

Price monthly

€49.99
1 month plan

Features

Games available: 9715

Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 240 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: 4 to 8 hours

Price monthly

plan

Features

Games available: 9715

Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

Raytracing support:

Session Length:

Price monthly

plan

Features

Games available: 9715

Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

Raytracing support:

Session Length:

Description

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.

Server Locations

Canada, France, Germany, and the USA (Washington DC and Portland)

Compatible devices

Browser, Windows, macOS, Ubuntu, Android, iOS, tvOS, Android TV, LG webOS, Raspberry Pi, and Meta Quest (VR)

Internet Requirements

Minimum Bandwidth: 15 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 1080p: 25 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 4K: 40 Mbps

Recommended Ping: < 30 ms

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.

Visit Shadow PC
Boosteroid

Bring-Your-Own-Games

Available plans

Ultra
Ultra Pro

Price monthly

€16.89
1 month plan

€7.49
12 month plan

Features

Games available: 1779

Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 120 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: unlimited

Price monthly

€12.48
6 month plan

€11.24
12 month plan

Features

Games available: 1779

Game Graphic: Up to 4K / 120 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: unlimited

Price monthly

plan

Features

Games available: 1779

Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

Raytracing support:

Session Length:

Price monthly

plan

Features

Games available: 1779

Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

Raytracing support:

Session Length:

Description

If affordability and quality are high on your list of priorities, then Boosteroid could be the right cloud gaming service for you. Starting at €7.49 per month on an annual plan, you have access to powerful cloud gaming servers that let you play your own games.

Notably, AAA games like Elden Ring, Red 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.

Server Locations

Romania, Ukraine, Slovakia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Sweden, Serbia, Brazil, Poland, Bulgaria, and the USA (Nebraska, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Texas, Illinois, and Washington)

Compatible devices

Browser, Windows, MacOS, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, iOS, webOS, Android TV

Internet Requirements

Minimum Bandwidth: 20 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 1080p: 35 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 4K: 40 Mbps

Recommended Ping: < 20 ms

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.

Visit Boosteroid
GeForce Now

Bring-Your-Own-Games

Available plans

Free
Performance
Ultimate

Price monthly

$0.00
1 month plan

Features

Games available: 5635

Game Graphic: Up to 1080p / 60 FPS

Raytracing support: No

Session Length: 1 hour

Price monthly

$9.99
1 month plan

$8.33
12 month plan

Features

Games available: 5635

Game Graphic: Up to 1440p / 60 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: 6 hours

Price monthly

$19.99
1 month plan

$16.67
12 month plan

Features

Games available: 5635

Game Graphic: Up to 5K / 240 FPS

Raytracing support: Yes

Session Length: 8 hours

Price monthly

plan

Features

Games available: 5635

Game Graphic: Up to / FPS

Raytracing support:

Session Length:

Description

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.

Server Locations

Bulgaria, Canada (Quebec), France, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States (Northern California, Southern California, Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Illinois, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, and New Jersey) + additional service partners in Japan, Turkey, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Thailand, Australia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Caucasus Region, and Latin America

Compatible devices

Browser, Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Android, iOS (iPhone and iPad), Shield TV, webOS, Android TV, Samsung TV, Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest (2, Pro, 3, and 3S), Pico (4 and 4 Ultra), Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, MSI Claw, Razer Edge, Logitech G Cloud

Internet Requirements

Minimum Bandwidth: 15 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 1080p: 25 Mbps

Recommended Bandwidth @ 4K: 45 Mbps

Recommended Ping: < 40 ms

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.

Visit GeForce Now

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

How to start cloud gaming on Windows PCs?

Getting started is super simple. Just follow these steps:

Pick a game
Choose a game you want to play. (Tip: Use our search to find a game, and we’ll show you where you can play it on cloud gaming.)
Select a provider
Find a cloud gaming service that supports your game.
Set up and play
Install the app or use your browser to log in and start gaming.

Need more details? Check out our simple step-by-step guide on how to start cloud gaming.

Is there any cloud gaming for free on PC?

Yes, there is a free option. GeForce Now offers a free tier, but keep in mind that it comes with ads, wait times, and limited session lengths. If you want better performance and extra features like 4K, you’ll need to subscribe to a premium plan.

Looking for more free options? Check out our lists of free cloud gaming services and free cloud games.

Is cloud gaming on Windows PCs worth it?

Absolutely! Cloud gaming on PC is a game-changer for those who don’t want to constantly upgrade their hardware. You can play the latest titles without worrying about performance issues or expensive components.

It’s also super convenient – you can switch between devices, like starting on your PC and continuing on your phone or tablet. Plus, it’s often more budget-friendly than buying high-end gaming hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you don’t. All the heavy processing is done by remote servers, so your PC just needs to handle streaming. Even older Windows PCs work fine as long as you have a modern browser and a stable internet connection.

Yes, most cloud gaming platforms support controllers. However, you can also stick with a keyboard and mouse if that’s your preference.

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