In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming technology, the introduction of Razer’s Nexus app has stirred the pot, challenging the established dominance of Steam Link. While Steam Link has been a staple for local game streaming, Razer’s offering emerges as a compelling alternative, particularly for those seeking a seamless remote play experience.
A real gaming Nexus
The Razer Nexus app presents itself as a versatile tool, functioning as a hub for mobile games while also incorporating live-streaming capabilities. However, its standout feature lies in its remote play functionality, which operates similarly to Steam Link but with a few additional steps for setup. To fully utilize the Nexus app, users must also install the Razer Cortex app on their desktop. This app serves as a library for PC games, although many users may find it sufficient to focus solely on the remote play aspect.
Once both applications are installed, the process is straightforward. A quick login on the mobile app sets the stage for streaming, with an additional app for remote play that integrates seamlessly within the Nexus interface. The entire setup can be completed in about five minutes, a minor increase in time compared to Steam Link’s installation.
At its core, Razer Nexus is built on the foundation of Moonlight, an open-source streaming software leveraging NVIDIA’s GameStream protocol. While Moonlight has historically offered superior performance over Steam Link, its complexity often deterred users. Razer’s adaptation simplifies this process, introducing a feature reminiscent of other Moonlight forks that creates a virtual screen on the PC tailored to the device being used for streaming. This means that when streaming to a high-refresh-rate display, the app automatically adjusts the settings on the PC to match, enhancing the overall experience.
Goodbye, Steam Link
In practice, the Nexus app has proven effective for a wide range of games. However, it does exhibit some limitations, particularly with non-Steam titles. While these games can be launched, they may not always recognize controls automatically, especially those from the Epic Games Store. Fortunately, adjustments can often be made within the game settings, although this adds a layer of complexity that some users may find frustrating.
On a positive note, the app excels with PC Game Pass titles, making it an excellent choice for gamers with diverse libraries. Unlike Steam Link, which relies on Big Picture mode for a smoother experience, Razer Nexus allows users to select games directly from the app, streamlining the process significantly. The streaming continues even if the game is closed, a feature that many will appreciate for its convenience.
However, the app is not without its drawbacks. Users must create an account, and the mobile interface tends to promote paid games, raising concerns about monetization strategies. The desktop version also features display ads, which some may find intrusive. For those who prefer a more straightforward setup without these encumbrances, alternatives like Artemis/Apollo exist, though they require a more involved installation process.
In a surprising turn of events, Razer Nexus has emerged as a worthy contender in the realm of local game streaming, offering a user-friendly experience that may very well replace Steam Link for many gamers. As the gaming community continues to explore new technologies, Razer’s innovative approach could redefine how we engage with our favorite titles remotely.
