Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service is set to receive significant updates this September, introducing its new Blackwell GPUs. With these upgrades, users will have access to an equivalent of an RTX 5080 GPU featuring 48GB of memory and DLSS 4 technology. The service will cost $20 per month and allows for streaming high-performance gaming on devices such as phones, Macs, PCs, TVs, set-top boxes, and Chromebooks.
A key new feature, “Install-to-Play,” will enable users to install games directly without waiting for Nvidia curation, potentially doubling the GeForce Now game library instantly. However, this feature is currently limited to games that opt into Valve’s Steam Cloud Play, which could include titles from major publishers like Ubisoft and CD Projekt Red.
While users cannot install any PC game, those opted into Steam’s service will become available immediately upon feature rollout, expanding the library significantly. However, games installed via this feature won’t launch instantly as curated titles do; users must download and install them each time unless they purchase persistent storage options.
Nvidia will also enhance streaming capabilities, enabling 5K resolution at 120fps, and 360fps at 1080p. There is a new Cinematic Quality Streaming mode, improving color detail and reducing artifacts during transmission, with a bandwidth increase from 75Mbps to 100Mbps.
GeForce Now Ultimate users will continue to access both RTX 4080 and RTX 5080 performance, with Nvidia not yet committing to a specific performance outcome for every game played on these GPUs. The service will maintain its cost at $19.99 per month, without immediate plans for a price increase, although Nvidia has hinted that adjustments may occur based on power usage and currency exchange rates.
Nvidia is also experimenting with integrating GeForce Now into Discord, enabling users to try games instantly through the platform, with plans for broader developer engagement. However, certain major titles, like those from Sony and Rockstar, will not be available on GeForce Now in the near future.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/760219/nvidia-geforce-now-rtx-5080-cloud-gaming