- Shawn Layden doubts game streaming will replace traditional gaming anytime soon.
- Real-time interaction and low latency requirements in gaming are challenges that cloud technology hasn’t fully overcome yet.
- Layden highlights the varying quality of internet infrastructure globally as another hurdle.
Video game streaming has been a trending topic for years, particularly with big companies putting a lot of money into it. But will it take over traditional gaming anytime soon? According to Shawn Layden, a former executive at PlayStation, the answer is no.
Even with big improvements, he doesn’t think we’ll see a gaming version of Netflix in his lifetime. Layden made these remarks during a time of big changes in the industry, as Amazon, Apple, and even Netflix are entering the gaming market.
Despite their efforts, Layden points out that gaming is much more complex and has different needs than video streaming services.
Why it matters: Traditional gaming remains popular, while game streaming is considered an additional choice rather than a full alternative.
Speaking in an interview with IGN, Shawn Layden expressed his thoughts about video game streaming.
As far as ‘Netflix of Gaming,’ I don’t see that happening any time soon (successfully).
-Shawn Layden
In 2019, game streaming appeared set to change the industry.
Google launched Stadia, offering AAA games for $60 each, but it faced difficulties and eventually closed down. Meanwhile, Microsoft offered xCloud, which became part of the popular Game Pass subscription.
After acquiring Gaikai years earlier, Sony revamped it into PlayStation Now and later upgraded it to PS Plus Premium. Nvidia also made waves with GeForce Now, leading in PC game cloud streaming.
Despite these efforts, game streaming hasn’t gained the traction expected. Services like xCloud and PS Plus streaming are mainly used to try out games rather than play them extensively.
Unlike video streaming on Netflix, which can preload content to ensure smooth playback, gaming requires real-time interaction with minimal latency. This demand for instant response is a big obstacle, especially in areas with weaker internet connections.
Layden pointed out the major technological challenges, especially the varying quality of internet infrastructure globally. He mentioned that while cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Stockholm can handle a streaming gaming lifestyle, many other places cannot.
There are also concerns about consumer adoption. While game streaming sounds attractive, it requires a change in how consumers approach gaming, which won’t happen overnight.
Anyhow, game streaming remains an interesting idea, but it hasn’t lived up to its full potential yet. Despite big players like Microsoft, Sony, and Nvidia pushing forward, streaming hasn’t taken over as the main way people play games.
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