Cloud gaming is not a new concept, but recent developments reveal an exciting future for Australian gamers. Without needing powerhouse hardware, you can play your favourite AAA games without compromising on quality.
With big tech players investing in cloud infrastructure and the rollout of 5G, these technologies will change the way we perceive gaming.
The Future of Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming, also known as game streaming, lets gamers play games over the internet through specific services. Cloud gaming eliminates the need to constantly upgrade your hardware just to meet the high specs that AAA games demand.
Traditionally, cloud gaming platforms such as PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate primarily target PC and console gamers. But with the rollout of 5G in Australia, mobile gamers will soon have access to AAA games as well.
Globally, cloud gaming is a rapidly growing industry, with revenue projected to reach US$10.46 billion by 2025. With the development of cross-platform integration, the industry is expected to experience an annual growth rate of 22.28%.
What’s Powering The Shift?
In Australia, cloud gaming is a growing industry, and you can thank the major leaps in technology for that.
5G Rollout and Faster Internet Speeds
Due to the country’s unique geography, broadband infrastructure poses challenges to accessing cloud gaming. Slow speeds and latency issues are the bane of Australian gamers. You’ll know the frustration of the dreaded lag when playing first-person shooters online. Seamless cloud gaming requires a latency of less than 100 milliseconds and a minimum of 15 Mbps for HD gameplay. For a large portion of Australians, especially those living in rural areas, slow internet speeds put a damper on gaming.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), urban areas are only now reaching 99% of plan speeds. There is hope for the growing gaming community, and that’s 5G technology. Companies like Optus and Telstra are in the process of phasing out 3G networks and expanding their 5G network. You can expect an improvement in streaming stability and little to no lag. For example, in 2024, Optus had the best 5G multiplayer gaming experience. The service had a network score of 82.1 points out of 100.
Upgrades to satellite infrastructure will also offer gamers outside metro areas increased speeds.
AI Optimisation
Cloud gaming is going to get even better thanks to the role of AI.
While you’re playing your game, AI technology is working hard in the background to deliver a smooth experience. AI can tailor gameplay according to your behaviour, resulting in engaging interactions.
Even if you don’t have perfect internet speeds or hardware, AI can adjust your game settings to provide a smoother game experience. AI technology does this by analysing network conditions to adjust your graphics.
New Gaming Gadgets
The development of new gaming gadgets means you can take your cloud gaming to the next level. Something as simple as a controller can change the way you play games. Motion tracking, intuitive controls, and haptic feedback provide a realistic experience.
Mobile gamers can also get in on the action! High-end smartphones, such as the ROG Phone from ASUS, feature advanced cooling and high refresh rates for better gaming performance. You can turn your phone into a console with a universal mobile gaming controller from brands like Razer and Backbone.
VR headsets can fully immerse you in the exciting world of the game you’re playing. The headsets come with features like mixed reality capabilities and eye and facial tracking. The high refresh rates and resolution specs display stunning visuals in VR.
Smart TVs elevate the cloud gaming experience by incorporating features such as higher refresh rates and QLED technologies. Some smart TVs use AI technology to optimise sound and lighting based on the content displayed on the screen.
Upgrade Your Gaming Experience With a Gaming VPN
Cloud gaming does have some risks, like data security vulnerabilities and privacy concerns. You can upgrade your gaming experience by using a VPN while staying safe.
Even the best setups can be hindered by roadblocks like unstable and slow internet connections. A VPN can make a big difference by providing smoother and more stable connections. The top-rated VPN will help boost your game performance by avoiding bandwidth throttling. Using a VPN built with gamers in mind is the easiest way to protect yourself from DDoS attacks and bypass geo-restrictions for international servers. You can safely host your LAN parties and play on any platform with low lag.
The Future of Gaming Is Here
Cloud gaming in Australia is here and will only get better. With the rollout of faster internet infrastructure and AI optimisation, you can expect accessible and immersive cloud gaming. While there are still challenges like regional internet limitations, using a VPN for gaming can improve your overall gaming experience.
