GeForce NOW is NVIDIA’s cloud gaming service, available on a wide variety of devices, which provides access to PC games without the need to install them or to have a powerful computer. By offloading graphics computation to remote servers, GeForce NOW offers an alternative to local gaming configurations, with high performance even on modest devices. The service is based on a distributed infrastructure, modular subscriptions and extensive compatibility with the main game distribution platforms.
What is NVIDIA GeForce NOW?
Developed as part of the NVIDIA GRID project, NVIDIA GeForce NOW was launched publicly in February 2020 after a long beta phase that began in 2015. Its principle is based on running games on servers that host NVIDIA RTX graphics cards, enabling game sessions to be streamed remotely to the user’s device. Players retain ownership of the games they buy from compatible shops, and can access them once their personal accounts have been linked.
Several subscription tiers are available, each giving access to different performance, session length and priority levels. A free package lets you try out the service, with long queues and a session limited to one hour. The “Performance” and “Ultimate” paid packages provide access to standard RTX and RTX 4080 configurations respectively, with a gradual upgrade in definition, framerate, session length and available technologies (DLSS 3, NVIDIA Reflex, HDR, G-Sync in the cloud). Since January 2025, paid subscriptions have been capped at 100 hours per month, with the option of buying additional hours or subscribing to day passes to test premium services.
How to use this cloud gaming service
NVIDIA GeForce NOW can be accessed via an app or a browser, depending on the device. On Windows, macOS and Linux PCs, installing a dedicated client lets you access advanced settings and optimized display. A native app has also been available on Steam Deck since May 2025, improving latency and quality compared to browser access. Android and iOS mobile devices can use the GeForce NOW app, with controller and touchscreen support.
NVIDIA GeForce NOW can be used directly via integrated apps on some recent compatible Smart TV models (LG, Samsung, etc.), or via an Android TV box such as the NVIDIA SHIELD. This configuration provides a smooth high-definition experience, provided you have a stable Internet connection. A bandwidth of 25 Mbit/s is recommended for 720p, and 50 Mbit/s for 1080p. The service automatically detects the ideal configuration for the device used and adapts the encoding parameters accordingly.
Over 2000 GeForce NOW compatible games
NVIDIA GeForce NOW stands out for its rich catalogue of over 2,000 playable games, regularly updated each week as part of the “GFN Thursday” series. Most major publishers are represented, and games can be launched via the main digital distribution platforms. Steam is fully integrated, as are the Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect and Xbox Game Pass (for cloud-compatible games). The service also supports some Electronic Arts and GOG games, further expanding the range of available titles.
The way it works is based on account synchronisation: users associate their Steam, Ubisoft or Epic credentials with GeForce NOW, so they can automatically access the games they own on these platforms, without having to re-authenticate. Cloud saves are supported if the game or platform offers them, and graphics settings are memorised for Performance and Ultimate subscribers. The whole process is centred on transparency: NVIDIA GeForce NOW does not sell games, but allows the use of those already purchased via a streaming service.
GeForce NOW adopts a pragmatic approach to cloud gaming, which does not seek to replace existing platforms, but to expand on them in the cloud. By letting users play their own games on almost any device, NVIDIA’s service bypasses hardware limitations while remaining as faithful as possible to the PC experience. Thanks to extensive compatibility, a large catalogue and flexible subscription offers, GeForce NOW is now a serious option for those who want to play their games smoothly, without having to invest heavily in hardware.
