Cloud gaming elevated by 5G

China's cloud gaming industry is expected to receive a major boost from the development of 5G technology, according to industry insiders.

Unlike downloadable app-based games, cloud games are based on servers and can be played via high-speed data connection.

Tech giants like China Mobile, Google, Nvidia, Tencent and Zhejiang Century Huatong Group have invested heavily in the field.

“New (cloud game) services will soon reshape the industry ecosystem and break device limitations for players,” said Wang Ji, chief executive of Century Huatong and chairman of Shengqu, a leading gaming firm in Shanghai.

In the next five years, more than 600 million players will subscribe to cloud games, Wang predicts.

Shengqu also recently announced a cooperation with China Mobile’s entertainment content subsidiary Migu in digital entertainment services.

By the end of this year, 5G networks will cover all cities nationwide, which will boost online services including cloud gaming, according to China Mobile.

Also in December, Tencent and Nvidia announced a cooperation to launch a cloud game service known as START.

Listed gaming firms, including Century Huatong, Youzu and 37 Interactive Entertainment, have advanced between 10 and 30 percent over the past five trading days.