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Cloud gaming

The Evolution of Gaming: From PC to Cloud - What UK Gamers Need to Know

The iconic dial-up tone that once echoed through British homes marked the dawn of online gaming. Today, from Aberdeen to Brighton, gamers experience unprecedented technological marvels with photorealistic graphics and seamless multiplayer experiences.
PC gaming maintains its position at the forefront of this evolution, powered by advanced hardware and deep customisation options. But as cloud gaming gains traction across the UK, crucial questions arise about the future of gaming.

The Power of PC Gaming

PC gaming has been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for decades, distinguished by its ability to deliver high-performance experiences and unparalleled customisability.

Hardware Dominance

At the heart of PC gaming lies its hardware. Essential components include:
  • CPU: Manages game logic and overall system performance
  • GPU: Powers visual quality, enabling features like Ray Tracing for realistic lighting
  • RAM: Supports multitasking, with 16GB becoming standard for modern gaming
  • Storage: SSDs have revolutionised load times, creating smoother gameplay experiences
Thanks to technological advances, gaming hardware has become more accessible. Mid-range devices, such as the OMEN 25L Desktop with its NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060 graphics, can run most modern games at high settings.

Advantages and Limitations

PC gaming excels in several areas:
  • Customisability: Fine-tune graphics settings and optimise hardware performance
  • Game Libraries: Access to vast collections, including indie and modded games
  • Ownership: Players own their hardware and game copies, providing long-term value
However, PC gaming requires significant upfront costs and periodic hardware upgrades to maintain optimal performance.

Cloud Gaming: The Future?

Cloud gaming is transforming the gaming landscape, offering a convenient, hardware-light alternative. Instead of relying on powerful local devices, games are processed on remote servers and streamed to the user’s screen.

Cloud Gaming Infrastructure

Essential requirements include:
  • Stable Internet Connection: Speed and latency directly impact performance
  • Basic Hardware: Even a standard laptop or HP Chromebook Plus can suffice
With cloud gaming, users pay for access rather than hardware. Popular services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and PlayStation Plus Premium offer subscription-based access to extensive game libraries.

Advantages and Challenges

Benefits:
  • Lower barrier to entry—minimal hardware requirements
  • Flexibility to play across multiple devices
  • No maintenance, heat, or noise concerns
Drawbacks:
  • Internet dependency: High latency can disrupt gameplay
  • Server queues and session limits
  • Potential long-term costs comparable to PC gaming

Cloud Gaming vs. PC Gaming: A Quick Comparison

Category PC Gaming Cloud Gaming
Performance High and consistent Dependent on internet quality
Cost High upfront, low long-term Subscription-based, scalable
Accessibility Requires dedicated hardware Multi-device compatibility
Game Libraries Expansive and customizable Limited by provider
Latency Minimal Variable, high for eSports titles

Making an Informed Choice

PC Gaming Suits:

For dedicated enthusiasts, the OMEN by HP 45L GT22-1015na Gaming PC offers extreme performance with its unique cooling chamber and tool-less upgradeability. It’s ideal for:
  • Competitive players requiring minimal latency
  • Those valuing customisation and control
  • Gamers with reliable hardware but variable internet connectivity

Cloud Gaming Benefits:

The HP Pavilion Plus 14-eh1001na Laptop with its Intel® Core™ Processor makes an excellent cloud gaming platform, perfect for:
  • Casual gamers prioritising convenience
  • Budget-conscious players avoiding hardware costs
  • Users with strong internet connections who value flexibility

Decision-Making Tips

  • Assess your internet connection’s speed and stability
  • Compare upfront hardware costs to long-term subscription fees
  • Consider game availability on each platform
  • Take advantage of cloud gaming free trials

Looking Ahead

The gaming landscape continues to evolve, with both PC gaming and cloud gaming serving different needs. While cloud gaming offers unprecedented accessibility, traditional PC gaming remains the benchmark for performance and control.
As the UK’s internet infrastructure continues to improve, particularly with the expansion of full-fibre broadband, the gap between these gaming approaches may narrow. Until then, your choice between PC and cloud gaming should align with your personal preferences, budget, and gaming priorities.
Whether you choose a high-performance gaming PC or opt for the flexibility of cloud gaming, HP offers solutions to enhance your gaming experience. Explore our range of gaming devices to find the perfect match for your gaming style.

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