PlayStation Portal gets (finally) interesting: it now supports cloud streaming for PS5

It's about time, Sony! Finally the PlayStation Portal takes a step forward that makes it really worth considering.

After a year of 'hey, but you need it to play at home', here comes the update that many have been waiting for: the ability to play PS5 titles directly from the cloud, without having to be physically close to the console.

Yes, that's right.

Now you can carry your PS5 in your pocket... more or less.

Let's see why this news changes the cards on the table.

Cloud streaming: how does it work?

Let's start from the heart of the news. With the new update (released on November 20), the PlayStation Portal It now allows subscribers PlayStation Plus Premium to access a selection of PS5 games via cloud streaming.

Translated: you no longer need the console to be turned on in the living room while you play. All it takes is a decent Internet connection, and you're good to go.

Some technical details for the geeks:

• Maximum resolution, 1080p at 60fps.
• Network requirements, minimum 7 Mbps for 720p and 13 Mbps for 1080p.
• Supported games, about 120 titles in the PS Plus catalog, including Ghost of Tsushima, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart.
• DualSense Controllers fully supported, with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.

Everything perfect? Not really. Some functions such as 3D audio, voice chat and the streaming of PS4 and PS3 games are still missing the mark. But hey, we're still in beta. Time to time.

How do I activate cloud streaming?

You need the latest version of the Portal system software, a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, and a stable connection.

Once updated:

1. Go up Settings and turn on cloud streaming.
2. Return to the home screen of PlayStation Portal: a new option will appear to access the games available in streaming

Simple, isn't it? Too bad cloud streaming is limited to PS5 games. No chance for PS4 and PS3 titles... for now

PlayStation Portal: a second chance?

When the PlayStation Portal It was launched, let's face it, many have snubbed it. “It's just a gadget for playing at home,” they said.

And they were right.

But with this update, things change.

Sony shows that it wants to focus on cloud gaming, a sector where Xbox has already taken off.

Of course, we are still far from perfect.

Missing functions and limitations are obvious, but it is undeniable that the Portal he is finally finding his identity.

And if Sony continues to listen to player feedback, we may have the real 'Switch killer' in our hands.

Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating, but let me dream.

Is it worth it?

It depends. If you are already a subscriber to PlayStation Plus Premium and you have a decent network connection, the PlayStation Portal now it makes a lot more sense.

It's a good way to take advantage of the PS5 catalog on the go, even if with some compromises.

But if you were looking for a complete portable console... better wait.

In conclusion: the Portal It's like that friend who at first seemed boring but then, after a couple of drinks, becomes the king of the evening.

And we are only at the beginning.