Gaming is no longer confined to dedicated consoles and PC setups. Modern smart TVs provide a variety of compelling options for playing great games right on your big screen TV without extra equipment. From casual party titles to immersive AAA experiences, let‘s explore how to get the most out of gaming on your smart TV.
Smart TV Gaming Platforms
Most major smart TVs from brands like Samsung, Sony, LG and more now come equipped with built-in gaming platforms that provide access to a wide selection of casual games designed specifically for the TV. For example:
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Samsung TVs have the Samsung Gaming Hub which includes hundreds of free-to-play games spanning action, puzzles, sports, retro arcade and more.
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LG TVs feature the LG Game Channel with over 100 games optimized for TV controls and social party gameplay on the big screen.
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Sony PlayStation-enabled smart TVs provide access to the streamlined PS1, PS2 and PS4 game libraries.
According to Samsung, their 2022 smart TVs offer over 1000 game titles through partnerships with services like Utomik. Most smart TV platforms see frequent new game additions too.
Cloud Gaming Services
Cloud gaming has opened the door for streaming graphically-rich AAA games over the internet to smart TVs, no console required. Top services like:
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Xbox Cloud Gaming provides free access to over 100 Xbox console games with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. This includes massive hits like Microsoft Flight Simulator.
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Nvidia GeForce Now lets premium members stream over 1,000 AAA PC games to select smart TVs like Samsung and LG models.
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Google Stadia Pro offers over 50 popular titles like Cyberpunk 2077 for a monthly fee.
According to Nvidia, their GeForce Now cloud gaming service streams games at up to 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second to smart TVs. This matches the performance of dedicated consoles.
Optimizing Smart TVs for Game Performance
For responsive controls and smooth, fluid gameplay, it‘s important to optimize your smart TV‘s settings:
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Enable ‘Game Mode‘ – This disables unnecessary video processing to reduce input lag. Samsung TVs see input lag drop from 15ms to 5ms with Game Mode on.
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Use a wired internet connection – This provides lower latency and more consistent bandwidth versus WiFi for stable game streaming.
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Upgrade to a 120Hz or 144Hz refresh rate TV – Higher refresh rates allow for higher frame rates, translating to smoother gameplay. Popular models include the Sony X90K 4K TV with 120Hz refresh rate.
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Look for HDMI 2.1 ports – To take advantage of next-gen gaming features like 4K at 120fps, choose a smart TV with HDMI 2.1. The LG C2 OLED TV includes 4 HDMI 2.1 ports.
Gaming Accessories for Smart TVs
To complete your smart TV gaming setup:
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Use controllers – For greater precision and response compared to TV remotes, connect wireless controllers like the Sony DualSense, Xbox Core or 8Bitdo Pro 2 which are compatible with most smart TVs.
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Add gaming headsets – For a more immersive experience, headphones like the SteelSeries Arctis 9 provide simulated surround sound and a noise-cancelling mic.
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Get a streaming stick – Devices like the Nvidia Shield TV or Roku Streaming Stick+ enable additional cloud gaming services on smart TVs with Google TV or Roku TV interfaces.
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Invest in gaming furniture – Sitting too far or at odd angles can diminish gameplay. Upgrading to ergonomic gaming chairs and desks optimizes the experience.
Smart TV Gaming vs. Consoles
Dedicated consoles from Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo still provide the pinnacle for hardcore gaming, with some advantages over smart TVs:
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Larger game libraries – Consoles grant access to about 3,000+ game titles, dwarfing the much smaller catalogs accessible natively on smart TVs.
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Lower input lag – The fastest consoles achieve under 5ms of input lag, versus around 15ms on smart TVs. This latency difference is crucial for competitive online multiplayer.
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Higher performance – The latest PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles enable cutting-edge performance like 4K 120fps gaming. Only newer high-end smart TVs can match this currently.
However, for more casual players, smart TV gaming provides notable benefits:
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Convenience – Gaming apps are built right into the TV software rather than needing separate hardware and connections. Cloud gaming only requires a controller.
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Cost – Smart TV gaming leverages existing hardware you likely already own. Depending on TV capabilities, little or no extra equipment needed.
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Portability – Smart TV gaming allows playing on any TV in your home rather than being restricted to wherever consoles are connected.
According to PCMag, smart TVs are now reaching gaming performance on par with the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X consoles, quite capable for most players. Hardcore gamers may still crave the highest end experiences though.
The Future of Smart TV Gaming
As smart TV hardware and software continue advancing rapidly, their gaming prowess likewise improves each year. Exciting innovations on the horizon include:
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8K resolution – With 4 times the pixels of 4K, 8K TVs will provide unparalleled visual fidelity. Models like the Samsung QN900B 8K TV are already available.
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5G connectivity – The ultra-fast 5G standard will help enable sophisticated cloud gaming services that can stream massive blockbuster games.
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AI improvements – Machine learning will optimize gaming performance, visuals and streaming stability on smart TVs. AMD and Samsung are collaborating on AI techniques.
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Better processors – New processor chips like the Mediatek Pentonic enable sharper image upscaling, picture enhancements and faster response times ideal for gaming.
According to TechRadar, thanks to exponential advancements in smart TV gaming tech, consoles could face stiff competition from TVs within the next 5 years when it comes to performance and game libraries.
With their increasing gaming capabilities and accessibility, smart TVs present an exciting option for casual and even hardcore players alike looking to game directly on the big screen. As the technology matures, the possibilities are tremendous.
