Google Search is getting a game-changing update for cloud gaming services like Luna and Stadia
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Google Search is getting a game-changing update for cloud gaming services like Luna and Stadia
You'll soon be able to search for games, then play them instantly
➡️ The Shortcut Skinny
🆕 A new Google Search function is rolling out that lets you jump into cloud gaming services
▶️ A “Play” button will appear if a game is available, so you can start playing right away
👍 The functionality works for all the major cloud gaming services, such as Stadia, Luna, GeForce Now, and Xbox Cloud Gaming
Google Search is set to give cloud gaming services like Luna, Nvidia GeForce Now, Stadia, and Xbox Cloud Gaming a serious shot in the arm.
The search engine giant is rolling out a new feature that lets you jump into a game you’re searching for if it’s available on a cloud gaming service you subscribe to.
For example, you can search for Halo Infinite, and an option to play the game via Xbox Cloud Gaming will appear on the right-hand side. Simply click the “Play” button, and you’ll be able to jump into the game.
The Nerf Report’s Bryant Chappel (as spotted by The Verge) was one of the users who noticed the change and shared that the functionality isn’t just tied to Google Stadia, the company’s own cloud gaming service.
The new Google Search feature also works with Amazon Luna, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Nvidia GeForce Now.
If you’re not a member of either of these services, clicking the “Play” button will take you to a sign-up page, but those logged in can start playing immediately.
One of the biggest benefits of cloud gaming is that you don’t need to wait for a game to download or patch updates and can play games across multiple devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. The ability to jump into cloud gaming from a Google search is a great way for people to try games they may be interested in or simply serves as a handy way to jump back into your favorite titles.
It’s refreshing that Google didn’t just lock the feature to Stadia, either, something which it understandably could have done. Stadia isn’t exactly hitting the heights that Google had in mind, with the company having to clarify that Stadia is very much alive now and then.
It’s unclear whether Google will roll out the new search functionality to everyone or if it’s something that might never see the light of day. Hopefully, it’s the former.
Head in the clouds
Microsoft continues to support Xbox Cloud Gaming by bringing the service to more devices. New Samsung TVs will let you play Xbox Series X games without a console, and Xbox Cloud Gaming could get Elden Ring and GTA 5 in an upcoming update.
Amazon Luna has followed in Microsoft’s footsteps by bringing its cloud gaming platform to Samsung 2022 smart TVs and monitors, while Nvidia GeForce lets subscribers play games at up to 4K resolution and up to 120fps, something which is typically reserved for PS5 120fps games and Xbox Series X 120fps games.
After a rather rocky start, cloud gaming has slowly carved out a space in the market, as proven by Xbox Cloud Gaming hourly usage increasing by 1800% in the past year. A speedy internet connection is still the biggest barrier to entry, but that will soon be offset by a wider rollout of 5G.