Plex Arcade: Stream Retro Games with Plex's New Service

Plex, the well-known media software company that has broadened its services to include streaming, is introducing a new offering today: game streaming. This new service, called “Plex Arcade,” distinguishes itself from other game streaming platforms, such as those from Microsoft or Google, by concentrating on classic, retro games rather than the latest releases. Upon its debut, the service features approximately 30 games, including popular titles like Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, Adventure, and Ninja Golf.

This game streaming service originated within Plex’s internal innovation group, Plex Labs, and is described as a project driven by the company’s enthusiasm, rather than a fundamental change in its overall strategy. The necessary technology was already largely developed – around 95% complete – prompting the team to launch the service as a surprise for its users and a means of furthering Plex’s goal to become a comprehensive entertainment hub.

The company notes that the concept of integrating games into Plex had been considered for several years, but gained increased momentum during 2020 due to the team’s personal interest and a desire for engaging diversions.

The development of the game service was facilitated by a partnership with Parsec and its advanced, low-latency streaming technology, enabling the delivery of fully functional game libraries through Plex.

To curate the game selection, Plex collaborated with Atari to secure licenses for a collection of timeless titles.

The complete initial game list includes: 3D Tic-Tac-Toe, Adventure, Alien Brigade, Aquaventure, Asteroids, Avalanche, Basketbrawl, Centipede, Combat, Dark Chambers, Desert Falcon, Fatal Run, Food Fight (Charley Chuck’s), Gravitar, Haunted House, Human Cannonball, Lunar Battle, Lunar Lander, Major Havoc, Millipede, Missile Command, Motor Psycho, Ninja Golf, Outlaw, Planet Smashers, Radar Lock, Sky Diver, Sky Raider, Solaris and Super Breakout.

Due to the costs associated with the partnership and licensing agreements, Plex Arcade will require a subscription fee.

It will be available as a separate subscription option priced at $2.99 per month for current Plex Pass subscribers (those already enrolled in Plex’s $4.99/month plan). Non-subscribers can access Plex Arcade for $4.99 per month. A 7-day free trial is also being offered.

Running the Plex Arcade server necessitates a computer operating either Windows or Mac (a requirement of Parsec’s technology), meaning it is not compatible with Linux, NAS devices, or NVIDIA Shield. Gameplay is supported on iOS, Android (both mobile and TV), tvOS, and the Chrome web browser.

The service also supports Bluetooth and USB game controllers that are compatible with your device, or keyboard controls for gaming within the Chrome browser. Plex suggests using the Sony DualShock 4 or Xbox One controller for an optimal gaming experience.

The company is adopting a cautious approach to the service’s future expansion. If it gains popularity and demonstrates user interest through subscriptions, Plex may explore opportunities for further development.

Plex Arcade represents the newest addition to an increasingly diverse range of entertainment options available to Plex users.

In recent years, the media software company has evolved from a tool for organizing personal media libraries to a platform offering features such as live TV streaming from antennas or the internet, music and podcast listening, access to ad-supported movies and TV shows, news viewing, and more.

These efforts are gradually contributing to user growth. Plex reported 10 million registered users in 2017, increasing to 15 million a couple of years later. Currently, Plex states it has reached 25 million users.

Plex Arcade is launching today.