Plex has introduced a new component to its streaming software called Plex Arcade, which adds game streaming to its movie and music streaming features.
The service, which is still in beta, costs non-Plex Pass users $ 5 per month or, for those who already have a Plex Pass, an additional $ 2.99 per month. It enables you to stream more than two dozen Atari games to your PC, Mac, iOS, tvOS and Android devices.
The new service also allows you to host ROMs, if you have them, on your own Plex server and stream them to your devices. You need to install a “core” of Libretro-style emulator, which provides emulation capability for a given platform and some matching game ROMs, but then you have everything you need to get ROMs for SNES, Sega Genesis or more to start streaming. dozen other consoles.
As for the controllers, Plex says any Bluetooth or USB game controller should work – but for best results, Plex recommends a Sony DualShock 4 or Xbox One controller. Theoretically, a PS5 or Xbox Series X controller should work as well, but Plex does not specifically mention this in its Plex Arcade blog post.
The service can be tried for free for seven days via Plex’s official website, but Plex Arcade requires a Windows or MacOS Plex Media Server (currently no Linux).
Pay attention to Google Stadiums, Plex has your number
Powering Plex’s new game streaming service is Parsec, peer-to-peer software that connects you remotely to another computer. This is the low latency streaming technology that allows you to work your Plex Pass.
What makes the service so interesting is that it really expands the capabilities of Plex, while aligning with the ethos of the company to make your media available wherever you are. It has always been able to stream music, movies and TV shows from your computer to your devices, but now you can also add games to the list.
Granted, users of Google Stadium and Nvidia GeForce Now are unlikely to give up current games to stream Game Boy Color games on Plex Arcade, but for ROM library owners who want to stream their legally acquired game collection, it’s a super an attractive offer for only a few dollars a month.