
Facebook Is the Latest Tech Company to Join the Cloud Gaming Fray
Its focus is a little different compared to most, though.
Several tech giants have been developing their own answer to cloud gaming, including Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. Today, Facebook has announced its own service, though it won't have a special name like Stadia or Luna.
Facebook Gaming will be launching cloud-streamed games on Facebook itself, either through the phone app or in-browser. Much like other offerings, it allows you to play without downloads—but unlike others, it is free-to-play.
In a blog today, Facebook VP of Play Jason Rubin laid out the expectations for the service. He says Facebook isn't going to be targeting resolutions or frames per second, and it's also not trying to replace gaming hardware. The lineup reflects that: the first set, available this week, includes Asphalt 9: Legends, Mobile Legends: Adventure, PGA Tour Golf Shootout, Solitaire: Arthur's Tale, and WWE SuperCard. Games will launch with in-app purchases and ads enabled as well, depending on "game format and developer choice."
Facebook says it's focusing on "latency-intolerant" games to start, so don't expect any fighting games or shooters right away. The beta is expected to expand and add more genres over time, with an expansion in 2021 that will add action and adventure games.
Several major tech companies have been launching their own cloud gaming services. Microsoft has the service formerly known as xCloud, which is now rolled into Game Pass Ultimate. Google has been trying to work with Stadia for a while now, and Amazon recently announced Luna. Each has its own approach, though they do all require a subscription.
Facebook's service stands apart for not trying to offer "premium" games, but also for being free to check out. It's not the normal kind of cloud platform, but among several other competitors in the cloud gaming field, that might be to its advantage. Facebook Gaming is rolling out in the U.S., starting with California, Texas, and several Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states (you can find the full list here), and more regions are expected in the coming months.
In other news
Xbox Confirms Game Pass Streaming for PCs and iOS Will Launch in Spring
Browser-based Xbox cloud gaming is just around the corner.
Halo Infinite Has Been Pushed Back to Fall 2021
Yes, Infinite will be coming out about a year later than originally intended, but test flights are making a comeback.
3
Xbox Series X Optimized Games Will Have Fast Fixes and More Quick Resume Support, Microsoft Says
Certain performance quirks and absent features won't be around for long, at least not according to Microsoft.
1
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War Pushes Back Season One Launch and Warzone Debut
You'll still be leaving Verdansk for a new Cold War locale soon, just not *that* soon.
Need help?
Fortnite Season 10 Battle Pass, New Skins, Map Changes - Everything We Know
Here's our guide to the Fortnite Season 10 Battle Pass, new map changes, and more.
Apex Legends Crypto - Abilities, Backstory, How to Unlock Crypto
Here's everything you need to know about Crypto in Apex Legends, including his abilities, backstory, price, and how to unlock the new legend.
Destiny 2 Xenophage Quest - How to Get the New Xenophage Machine Gun
This is how to complete the Destiny 2 Xenophage quest, including all puzzles, and more.
Newsletter
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters
Get the best of USG in your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters.