PlayStation is finally offering cloud gaming — but they're sorta charging you for it - The Escapist

PlayStation Portal Adds Cloud Gaming with Subscription

The PlayStation Portal, a handheld device that streams games from a PlayStation 5, is now offering cloud gaming. This update lets users access select digital PS5 games from their own library directly through cloud streaming, without needing to connect to the console itself.

Device Overview and Market Performance

The PlayStation Portal has received little attention since its release, with only about 3% of PlayStation 5 owners purchasing the device by summer 2025. Unlike the Steam Deck, which gained popularity for allowing play virtually anywhere, the Portal depends on having a PS5 console to stream games, meaning it is not fully independent.

Cloud Gaming Access Details

Sony has enabled cloud gaming for Portal users, but only those with a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription can benefit. This subscription tier costs $17.99 per month or $159.99 per year, making cloud streaming a paid feature.

“PlayStation Portal owners can now use cloud gaming. This includes ‘select digital PS5 games from their own library’ and cloud streaming through PlayStation Plus — but without the requirement of connecting to the console itself.”

This update transforms the PlayStation Portal from merely a streaming screen into a more versatile gaming device for subscribers.

Summary

The PlayStation Portal’s cloud gaming addition improves functionality but is locked behind Sony’s highest-tier subscription, enhancing value mainly for PlayStation Plus Premium members.

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The Escapist The Escapist — 2025-11-07

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