Sony is making strides in expanding its game streaming capabilities, particularly for its next-generation console, the PlayStation 5 (PS5). The company is currently testing PS5 game streaming for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers, providing access to the PS Plus Game Catalog titles and supported digital PS5 titles owned by players. This streaming feature aims to eliminate the need to download games and save precious SSD storage space.
While the test is still in its early stages, Sony has not yet provided a specific launch window or additional details. PlayStation Plus Premium typically costs $15 per month and already offers cloud gaming for PS3, PS4, and classic titles, with the ability to stream them on a PC. The addition of PS5 game streaming is expected to significantly enhance the appeal of this tier, especially as Sony extends access beyond the PS5 itself.
The Project Q handheld device, featuring an 8-inch display and DualSense-equivalent controls, currently supports Remote Play exclusively from a user’s own PlayStation 5. However, with the introduction of PS5 game streaming, it is likely that compatibility with devices like Project Q will expand, allowing players to enjoy PS5 games on the go.
It’s worth noting that streaming first-party games on launch day, as is sometimes the case with Microsoft’s Game Pass, may not be part of Sony’s strategy. Nick Maguire, the head of subscriptions, mentioned that first-party titles would still be released “outside the service first.” Sony believes that their existing approach of eventually adding games to the Premium tier after a year or more is effective, as it maximizes game purchases. However, the mention of “digital titles you own” suggests that some games may be available for streaming on day one if players choose to buy them outright.
Even without immediate access to first-party titles, PlayStation Plus still offers a substantial library of games. For instance, upcoming additions to the PS5 section of the Game Catalog include Far Cry 6, Inscryption, Rogue Legacy 2, and Soulstice. With Premium streaming, players can conveniently explore these titles without hassle.
As Sony continues to refine and expand its game streaming capabilities, PlayStation Plus subscribers can look forward to a more comprehensive and accessible gaming experience, with the potential to stream a wide range of PS5 titles directly to their devices.
