Buy a key from one of these sites.
Be careful to select the correct region, or use Global / Rest of World.
How to Use Cloud Gaming: A Step-by-Step Guide
A practical path from zero to playing: choose a service, get games correctly, connect accounts, and optimize your setup.
How to Use Cloud Gaming: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how cloud gaming works, what you need to get started, and how to choose the right service for your games.
What is cloud gaming?
Cloud gaming is a way to play video games without buying an expensive gaming computer or console. Instead of running on your own machine, the game runs on a remote server, and your device just streams the video and sends your inputs. It is like Netflix, but you control the action. All you need is a decent internet connection.
→ GeForce NOW and Boosteroid rent you a remote PC. You must first buy your games on a regular PC store such as Steam, Epic Games, or Ubisoft Connect. Once you connect your account, you can launch and play those games through the cloud.
→ Xbox Cloud Gaming rents you a remote Xbox console. It requires an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which gives you free access to hundreds of games while subscribed. You can also stream Xbox games you already own.
Device
Even a weak device can run AAA titles with cloud gaming. Now imagine how extraordinary your experience would be with the right gear.
PC / Mac
No big GPU needed, any potato PC or Mac can do the job
Laptop / MacBook
Enjoy silence and saves battery on any laptop or MacBook while playing AAA games
Android / iPhone
Turn your phone into a console by adding a controller
Tablet / iPad
A bigger screen for a more immersive experience
VR Headset
Step inside the game with full immersive cloud gaming
Handheld Console
Dedicated gaming hardware built for play on the go
Internet
You need a good and stable connection to stream games.
Speed
You need a fast, stable connection. Aim for at least 25 Mbps stable. 40 Mbps or higher is even better.
Ethernet
Connect with Ethernet when possible. Powerline is also a good wired option if your router is too far away.
Wi-Fi
Connect over stable 5 GHz Wi-Fi (not 2.4 GHz). Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 devices can provide a better experience.
Location
The closer you are to a cloud gaming server, the lower your latency.
- Good connection + nearby server = 🟢 good to go
- Good connection + distant server = 🟡 input delay
- Average connection + distant server = 🔴 sorry
What game do you want to play?
Do you already own the game?
Do you own the game on a store supported by a cloud service?
Redeem the key on the correct store.
Sign up to a cloud gaming service
Start the cloud service with the dedicated app or directly from your browser.
Search for your game and launch it.
You may be prompted to sign in to [game platform list].
Do you already own the game on Microsoft Store / Xbox?
If it's in Game Pass Ultimate you can play it while subscribed. Otherwise you'll need to buy it.
Buy an Xbox / Microsoft Store key.
Pick a key for Microsoft Store / Xbox (not Steam).
Redeem the key on the Microsoft Store or Xbox app.
Then confirm the game appears in your Xbox library.
Are you subscribed to Game Pass Ultimate?
Subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Sign in with your Microsoft account on xbox.com/play or the Xbox app.
Launch the game directly from your Xbox Cloud Gaming library.
Play!
Is the gameplay running smoothly?
Enjoy!
Tune for smooth play
1) Connection quality — Ethernet > Wi-Fi. Stability matters more than peak speed.
2) Wi-Fi position and band — If you play on Wi-Fi, move closer to the router and make sure you are on stable 5 GHz Wi-Fi (not 2.4 GHz).
3) Stop downloads during play — Pause downloads, updates, cloud sync, streaming apps, and VPN while gaming.
4) Server distance — Nearest region usually means lower latency and fewer spikes. Check the server map
5) Stream settings — Lower resolution first, then bitrate, and only then FPS.
- GeForce NOW: Cmd+G (macOS) / Ctrl+G (Windows) for overlay and network stats.
- Boosteroid: in-session menu (often Ctrl+F2 on desktop) for quick adjustments.
6) Wi-Fi adapter — If your USB or built-in adapter is more than 4–5 years old, it likely lacks Wi-Fi 5/6 support. A cheap modern adapter can noticeably improve stability.
7) ISP router / box — Many ISPs offer a free swap for their latest model (Wi-Fi 6, better QoS, more stable). A quick call to customer support is often all it takes.
8) Device age — Devices older than 5 years may struggle with hardware video decoding. A more recent device improves perceived quality and reduces stutters on your end.
9) Powerline adapter — Can't run Ethernet? A powerline adapter sends a wired-like signal through your electrical wiring — far more stable than Wi-Fi.
10) Fiber optic — Fiber provides the stability and low latency cloud gaming needs most. If it is available in your area but not yet installed, contact your ISP — installation is often free or low cost.
11) Avoid Wi-Fi repeaters — A Wi-Fi repeater or extender adds latency and reduces stability. Run an Ethernet cable instead if possible.