Cloud gaming is an incredible innovation that makes high-performing PCs available to any gamer with a good Wi-Fi connection, but it can be expensive
Luckily, there are two cloud gaming services you can use to play incredible games for free.
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The best free cloud gaming option is Nvidia GeForce Now
This powerful platform allows you to choose from an enormous library of games and to play on your PC, smartphone, tablet, or even a Samsung TV.
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You can sign up for Nvidia GeForce Now's Free membership on the Nvidia website. After you've signed up, you'll need to use a supported browser (Chrome, Safari on iPhones and iPads, or Edge) or download the GeForce Now native app to play.
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Depending on the game you're playing, GeForce Now might ask you to link your account too upon launching. Fortnite, for example, requires a linked Epic Games account. You'll also need to make sure that you turn off any ad blockers on your device.
Unfortunately, the free GeForce Now plan comes with a few limitations. Namely:
You play on Nvidia's "basic rigs".
Your access to gaming servers isn't prioritized, so you might have to wait in a queue.
You will see ads while queued.
You're limited to one hour per gaming session, although there's no limit to how many times you can start a new gaming session in a day.
If you decide to upgrade later on, the Priority plan is affordably priced at $9.99 per month. Otherwise, you'll still have a great time with GeForce Now. I found that the "basic rigs" were comparable to decent PCs and didn't give any major performance issues, and the only real bottleneck was my network speed.
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And even as a free user, your choice of game titles isn't severely limited. There's a huge selection of free-to-play games, and if you own games on Steam or the Epic Games Store that GeForce Now supports, you can play them by linking your accounts.
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If you want to push the envelope a bit, consider exploring free cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now, which allow you to stream games without needing powerful hardware.
It's important to familiarize yourself with it—if not master it—before diving into games. Take the time to understand the layout of your controller or keyboard.
For controllers, get to know the primary buttons, such as the joysticks, D-pad, triggers, and shoulder buttons.
If you're using a keyboard, familiarize yourself with the WASD keys (used for movement), the spacebar (often for jumping), and other frequently used keys like Shift, Ctrl, and the number keys.
Most games also allow you to remap keys to suit your preferences, so don't hesitate to customize your layout to find what feels most natural.
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It's best not to dive straight into competitive games like League of Legends, Call of Duty, or Fortnite.
consider easing into gaming with beginner-friendly titles designed to be more accessible and forgiving for new players.
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Starting with beginner-friendly titles allows you to enjoy the gaming experience without the stress of competition.
Play Co-Op Games With a Gamer Friend
There's a wide range of co-op games available, catering to various interests and skill levels. From cooperative adventures like Overcooked! to action-packed shooters like Borderlands, you can find something that matches your preferences.
If possible, play with a gamer friend who has more experience. Their familiarity with game mechanics can create a supportive and enjoyable environment for you.
choose a gaming subscription so that you can try multiple games at a fraction of the cost. This way, you can play without the pressure of committing to a single purchase, making it easier to discover your niche.
If you already have a preferred genre in mind but want to keep costs down, look for affordable indie games within that category. Many indie developers create innovative and engaging experiences at lower price points, allowing you to explore the gaming world more deeply without overspending.
Not only will this knowledge help you communicate effectively with fellow gamers, but it will also allow you to navigate discussions in online forums or while chatting with friends.
Platforms like YouTube and Twitch offer a wealth of content where experienced gamers showcase their skills, strategies, and playthroughs.
the online gaming community is generally welcoming and eager to support newcomers.
As a beginner, it's easy to get swept up in the excitement of gaming, often leading to long hours of play. However, taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining both your physical and mental well-being.
Maintaining a lighthearted approach will allow you to have more fun.
First, some basics. If Medicaid is paying for your long-term care (Medicare doesn’t pay for nonmedical care), you’re limited to $2,000 worth of assets in your name, not counting certain things, such as a car or a prepaid funeral.
(Spouses can retain the family home and some additional assets.)
To qualify for Medicaid without spending their nest egg on care, some people put assets into an irrevocable trust.
Then the assets are no longer yours; they are held for the beneficiaries you designate. Importantly, there’s also a “lookback” rule: In nearly all states, assets you put into an irrevocable trust or give away within five years of your application for Medicaid will temporarily disqualify you from the program.
(Regulations for implementing Medicaid are state-specific.)
s this the only planning option? No, McDowell said. Kuhnley can kick the can down the road. If she moved assets into a trust at the point she needed long-term care, McDowell said, she’d spend her own money for the first five years and then qualify for Medicaid. Anything left in the trust would be protected.
