How to Buy and Play Games on NOW TV: A Comprehensive Guide
NOW TV, also known as Sky NOW in some regions, primarily focuses on streaming movies and TV shows. However, its gaming capabilities are limited, and it doesn’t function as a platform for directly purchasing and playing games in the same way as services like Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Marketplace.
It is crucial to understand that NOW TV, as a streaming service, does *not* offer a traditional game store or the ability to directly purchase and download games. The service mainly revolves around providing access to on-demand and live television content. Therefore, the initial premise of buying games directly on NOW TV is not accurate.
This article addresses the confusion and explores potential avenues for game streaming and access, while also suggesting alternative gaming platforms and services.
## Understanding NOW TV’s Core Functionality
NOW TV operates as a subscription-based streaming service, offering various passes (e.g., Entertainment, Cinema, Sports, Kids) that grant access to a curated library of content. Users pay a monthly fee to stream movies, TV shows, and sports events over the internet. The service is available on a range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming sticks, set-top boxes, computers, and mobile devices.
NOW TV’s primary focus is *not* gaming. It does not have a dedicated game store, and it does not allow users to purchase and download games directly onto their devices via the NOW TV interface.
## Alternative Gaming Solutions: Cloud Gaming Services
While NOW TV itself does not offer game purchases, the landscape of gaming has evolved significantly with the rise of cloud gaming services. These services allow you to stream games over the internet without needing to download or install them locally. Several cloud gaming platforms exist that could potentially fulfill the desire to play games on your TV or other devices.
Here are some prominent cloud gaming services to consider:
* **Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly Project xCloud):** Part of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, Xbox Cloud Gaming allows you to stream a vast library of Xbox games to various devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs, and Xbox consoles. You can play games on the go or on your TV without needing a high-end gaming PC or console. An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription is required.
* **Nvidia GeForce Now:** This service streams games from your existing Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and GOG libraries to your devices. You essentially rent a virtual gaming PC in the cloud and stream the gameplay to your screen. GeForce Now offers different subscription tiers, including a free tier with limited playtime and priority access tiers with higher performance and longer session times.
* **PlayStation Plus Premium (formerly PlayStation Now):** Sony’s cloud gaming service allows you to stream a selection of PlayStation games to your PlayStation console or PC. PlayStation Plus Premium is the highest tier of the PlayStation Plus subscription service and includes access to a catalog of downloadable and streamable games from PlayStation’s history, including PS1, PS2, PS3, PSP and PS4 titles. Games can be streamed to PS4, PS5 and PC.
* **Amazon Luna:** This service offers a selection of curated game channels that you can subscribe to individually. Amazon Luna is available on various devices, including Fire TV devices, PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. An Amazon Prime membership is often required for certain benefits or access.
## How to Access Cloud Gaming Services on Your TV
The method for accessing cloud gaming services on your TV depends on the specific service and your TV’s capabilities.
1. **Smart TVs:** Many modern smart TVs have built-in app stores that allow you to download and install apps for various cloud gaming services. Check your TV’s app store for apps like Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, PlayStation, or Amazon Luna.
2. **Streaming Devices:** If your TV doesn’t have a built-in app store or the desired cloud gaming app isn’t available, you can use a streaming device like an Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Chromecast with Google TV. These devices connect to your TV’s HDMI port and provide access to a wide range of apps, including cloud gaming services.
3. **Gaming Consoles:** Xbox and PlayStation consoles natively support their respective cloud gaming services. If you have an Xbox Series X/S or PlayStation 5/4, you can easily access Xbox Cloud Gaming or PlayStation Plus Premium on your TV.
4. **Connecting a PC/Laptop:** You can connect your PC or laptop to your TV using an HDMI cable. You will need to download the specific application of the Cloud Gaming service you intend to use and play from your computer. Use an Xbox, Playstation, or third party controller (such as 8BitDo) to play from your couch.
## Setting Up Cloud Gaming on Your TV: A Step-by-Step Guide (Example: GeForce Now on a Fire TV Stick)
Let’s illustrate the process with an example: setting up Nvidia GeForce Now on an Amazon Fire TV Stick.
1. **Connect and Set Up Your Fire TV Stick:** Plug your Fire TV Stick into an HDMI port on your TV and connect it to a power source. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your Wi-Fi network and sign in to your Amazon account.
2. **Search for the GeForce Now App:** From the Fire TV Stick’s home screen, use the search function (magnifying glass icon) to search for “GeForce Now.”
3. **Download and Install the App:** Select the GeForce Now app from the search results and click “Download” to install it on your Fire TV Stick.
4. **Launch the GeForce Now App:** Once the installation is complete, click “Open” to launch the GeForce Now app.
5. **Sign In to Your Nvidia Account:** The GeForce Now app will prompt you to sign in to your Nvidia account. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one on the Nvidia website.
6. **Link Your Game Store Accounts:** After signing in, you’ll need to link your Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and GOG accounts to GeForce Now. This allows GeForce Now to access your game library.
7. **Choose a Game and Start Streaming:** Once your accounts are linked, you can browse your game library within the GeForce Now app, select a game, and start streaming. Make sure you have a stable and fast internet connection for the best streaming experience. Minimum suggested bandwidth for 720p/60fps is 15 Mbps. For 1080p/60fps you’ll need 25 Mbps.
8. **Connect a Controller:** Connect a compatible Bluetooth controller (e.g., Xbox controller, PlayStation controller, or Nvidia Shield controller) to your Fire TV Stick. You can pair the controller in the Fire TV Stick’s settings menu.
## Important Considerations for Cloud Gaming
Before diving into cloud gaming, keep these factors in mind:
* **Internet Connection:** A stable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for a smooth cloud gaming experience. The faster your internet connection, the less likely you are to experience lag or stuttering.
* **Subscription Fees:** Most cloud gaming services require a subscription fee. Consider the cost of the subscription when evaluating whether cloud gaming is the right choice for you.
* **Game Availability:** The availability of specific games varies depending on the cloud gaming service. Check the service’s game library to ensure that the games you want to play are supported.
* **Controller Compatibility:** Make sure your controller is compatible with the cloud gaming service and your device. Most services support popular controllers like Xbox and PlayStation controllers.
* **Latency:** Even with a good internet connection, cloud gaming may introduce some latency (delay between your input and the game’s response). This can be more noticeable in fast-paced action games.
## Alternatives to Cloud Gaming: Traditional Gaming Platforms
If cloud gaming doesn’t appeal to you, or if you prefer to own your games locally, consider these traditional gaming platforms:
* **PC Gaming:** Building or buying a gaming PC allows you to play a vast library of games with high graphical settings and customizable options. PC gaming offers the most flexibility and control over your gaming experience.
* **Gaming Consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch):** Gaming consoles provide a dedicated gaming experience with exclusive titles and optimized performance. Consoles are typically more affordable than gaming PCs and are easier to set up.
* **Mobile Gaming:** Mobile gaming offers a convenient and accessible way to play games on your smartphone or tablet. Mobile games are often free-to-play or available for a low price.
## Understanding Digital Game Purchases on Consoles and PC
When buying games digitally on consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch) or PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG), the process is generally the same:
1. **Access the Digital Store:** Navigate to the digital store on your console or PC. This is usually a dedicated app or section within the console’s operating system or PC gaming platform.
2. **Browse or Search for Games:** Browse the store’s catalog or use the search function to find the game you want to purchase.
3. **View Game Details:** Select the game to view its details, including price, screenshots, trailers, and reviews.
4. **Add to Cart or Wishlist:** Add the game to your cart or wishlist if you’re not ready to buy it yet.
5. **Proceed to Checkout:** When you’re ready to buy, proceed to the checkout process.
6. **Enter Payment Information:** Enter your payment information, such as credit card details or PayPal account.
7. **Confirm Purchase:** Review your order and confirm the purchase.
8. **Download and Install:** Once the purchase is complete, the game will begin downloading to your console or PC. After the download is finished, you can install and play the game.
## Alternatives to NOW TV for Entertainment: Other Streaming Services
If your primary goal is to stream movies and TV shows, consider these alternatives to NOW TV:
* **Netflix:** Offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content.
* **Amazon Prime Video:** Includes a selection of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Original content, as well as free shipping and other benefits for Amazon Prime members.
* **Disney+:** Features movies and TV shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.
* **Hulu:** Provides access to a wide range of TV shows, movies, and original content, including live TV options.
* **Apple TV+:** Offers original TV shows and movies from Apple.
## Conclusion: Exploring the Right Gaming Solution for You
While NOW TV primarily focuses on streaming movies and TV shows and does not offer a direct method for buying and playing games, the world of gaming provides various alternatives to explore. Cloud gaming services offer the convenience of streaming games to your TV without the need for downloads or installations. Traditional gaming platforms like PC gaming and consoles provide a dedicated gaming experience with a vast library of games to choose from.
Consider your budget, internet connection, game preferences, and desired level of convenience when choosing the right gaming solution for you. Explore the options outlined in this article to find the perfect way to enjoy your favorite games on your TV or other devices.
By understanding the limitations of NOW TV regarding gaming and exploring alternative solutions, you can make informed decisions about how to access and play the games you love.