PlayStation Portal Introduces Cloud Gaming with Subscription
The PlayStation Portal, a handheld console that has received little attention, is now supporting cloud gaming. Sony aims to enhance the device by allowing users to stream games without needing to connect to a PlayStation 5 console.
Background and Market Context
The Steam Deck's success sparked a rush among gaming companies to create their own handheld devices. The Steam Deck's appeal comes from its portability, allowing gaming in various locations like on planes or trains.
Despite this trend, only 3% of PlayStation 5 owners had purchased a PlayStation Portal by last summer. The Portal depends on streaming from the PlayStation 5 and is not a fully standalone console.
New Cloud Gaming Feature
Sony announced that PlayStation Portal users can now access cloud gaming, which allows streaming of select digital PS5 games from their personal library through PlayStation Plus. Crucially, this service no longer requires a direct connection to the PlayStation 5 console.
“Select digital PS5 games from their own library”
Subscription Requirements and Pricing
Access to cloud gaming on the PlayStation Portal comes exclusively with a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, Sony's top-tier offering. The subscription costs $17.99 per month or $159.99 annually.
For current subscribers, this update transforms the PlayStation Portal into more than just a remote screen for their PS5 games.
“If you’re already a subscriber, however, this is a great update that makes the PlayStation Portal more than a glorified screen.”
Summary
The addition of cloud gaming to the PlayStation Portal enhances its functionality but ties it to a costly PlayStation Plus Premium subscription.
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