10 Features That Will Define Next-Gen Gaming

10. Streaming Enters The Mainstream

Cloud-based streaming isn't exactly a new trick, what with OnLive proving massively ahead of its time with its 2010 launch, and its patents eventually being acquired by Sony, who put it to use for their quietly successful PlayStation Now service.

Sony have also offered extensive PS4 remote play functionality for years, and recently even added Apple iOS support.

Microsoft, meanwhile, offers streaming within the same wireless network, and is set to launch Project xCloud in the near-future, which will allow more extensive streaming options away from home.

Elsewhere, there's Google's newly-announced Stadia platform, a streaming-only service which will offer up to 4K HDR 60 FPS support, with plans to eventually carry streaming up to 8K.

With all-but-Nintendo getting in on the streaming game, it's clear that this will be a major cornerstone of the next gaming generation, even as questions about latency, data caps and net neutrality remain unanswered.

While native hardware-driven gaming will always have a place with tech enthusiasts, for more casual players who lack the means to buy expensive rigs (or simply can't be bothered with the faff), streaming is sure to become immensely popular.

For many, the ability to play a brand new AAA game on their iPhone is far more of a selling point than crystal clear, faultless 4K, and so it's easy to see how game streaming could eventually rival VOD streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime in popularity.