The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerful handheld gaming device designed to handle modern games with ease. While its hardware is capable of running demanding PC games natively, the lightweight form factor and portability make it an excellent device for cloud gaming. Here, we’ll explore the best cloud gaming services to use on the ROG Ally and why they’re worth considering.
Xbox Cloud Gaming (Game Pass Ultimate)
Why Use It?
- Seamless integration with the ROG Ally: As a Windows-based device, the ROG Ally fully supports Xbox Cloud Gaming, which is included with the Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
- Game library: You get access to hundreds of titles, including first-party Xbox exclusives and third-party hits.
- PC game access: Game Pass Ultimate also includes access to a vast library of PC games, allowing you to download and play them natively on the Ally.
- Controller support: The Ally’s built-in controls work perfectly with the service, making it a plug-and-play experience.
- Cloud saves: Easily switch between playing on your Ally and another device, like an Xbox console or PC.
Recommended for: Gamers who want a wide variety of games, especially those already subscribed to Xbox Game Pass.
NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Why Use It?
- High-performance gaming: With support for up to 4K resolution (on higher tiers) and RTX ray tracing, GeForce NOW is ideal for gamers who prioritize performance.
- Bring your library: Play your existing PC games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect.
- Flexibility: The service offers free and paid tiers, making it accessible for casual and hardcore gamers alike.
- No Installation: Play more games without worrying about storage.
Recommended for: Players who already own a library of PC games and want to experience them with high-end graphical settings, without storage issues.
Antstream Arcade
Why Use It?
- Massive retro library: Antstream Arcade provides access to thousands of retro games from classic consoles, arcades, and home computers.
- Unique experience: Relive the golden age of gaming with achievements and leaderboards for older titles.
- Ease of access: The service works smoothly on the Ally and doesn’t require powerful hardware to run.
Recommended for: Retro gaming enthusiasts who want to explore a vast library of classic games.
Utomik
Why Use It?
- Expanding library: Utomik offers a growing catalog of over 1,300 games, including indie gems, family-friendly titles, and older classics.
- Offline play: While primarily a download-based service, Utomik also supports streaming for selected titles, making it versatile for the Ally.
- Ease of use: Its user-friendly interface and low monthly cost make it accessible to PC gamers of all levels.
Recommended for: Gamers who want a mix of downloadable and streaming options, with a focus on indie and lesser-known games.
Other options to consider
While these are the primary services I’d recommend for various reasons, there are other options to consider. For starters, Amazon Luna and Blacknut offer cloud gaming libraries for a monthly fee. While Luna has a smaller library, Amazon Prime users can access a part of it for free. On the other hand, Blacknut has a heftier price point, but offers a vast catalog of games for all public.
Those who own a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox, can stream their consoles with PS Remote Play or the Xbox app on PC. That said, I’d recommend Xbox users to use Better xCloud on a browser in order to get a better image and performance.
The ROG Ally’s versatility makes it an excellent companion for cloud gaming services. Whether you’re looking for an expansive library, high-performance, or just saving on battery, there’s a service to suit every need. By leveraging these platforms, you can unlock the full potential of your ROG Ally while enjoying the freedom of gaming on the go.
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