Remote Desktop Gaming: How to Play Your PC Games Anywhere on Phone, Tablet, or Laptop

Have you ever wished you could play your favorite PC games anywhere, on your phone, tablet, or even a lightweight laptop? That’s exactly what remote desktop gaming makes possible. Instead of being tied to your gaming rig at home, you can stream your games as video to almost any device, while your PC does all the heavy lifting in the background.

In this guide, we’ll break down what remote desktop gaming is, how it has evolved, the best tools you can use today, and how to set them up. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to turn your gaming PC into a portable powerhouse. But if you’re in a hurry, hop on to OSLink remote desktop, it’s easy to set up and built specifically for gaming. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in.

 

How Remote Desktop Gaming Evolved from Dream to Reality 

The idea of playing PC games remotely has been around almost as long as remote desktop software itself.

In the early days, it was little more than an experiment. You could technically connect to a computer and launch a game, but poor frame rates, high input delay, and unstable internet speeds made it nearly unplayable. The concept had potential, but the technology wasn’t ready yet.

As internet connections improved and video compression became more advanced, the experience started to change. Developers began building solutions designed specifically for games, optimizing for smoother video streams, lower latency, and controller support.

Over time, what started as a clunky workaround transformed into polished apps and platforms that let players enjoy their PC libraries on almost any device. Today, with high-speed broadband and 5G, remote desktop gaming feels less like a novelty and more like a natural extension of modern gaming.

 

What Do I Need to Start Remote Desktop Gaming?

The good news is that you don’t need a pile of expensive hardware to get started with remote desktop gaming. Here are the basics:

1. A Gaming PC (Host Machine): This is where your games actually run. The more powerful your PC, the smoother your experience, but even mid-range setups can handle remote play.

2. A Client Device (Phone, Tablet, or Laptop): The device you’ll use to play. Since it’s only receiving a video stream, it doesn’t need high specs, even budget tablets and older laptops can work.

3. A Stable Internet Connection: A reliable Wi-Fi or wired connection is key. For mobile devices, a strong Wi-Fi signal or 5G network will keep input lag low and gameplay smooth. The better the connection, the closer it feels to playing locally.

4. A Remote Play App: Popular options include Steam Link, Moonlight, Parsec, AnyDesk, or specialized tools like OSLink. These apps handle the streaming and input so your device feels like it’s running the game directly.

 

With just these four pieces in place, you can start playing PC games on virtually any screen. Once set up, you can launch a game on your PC and instantly stream it to your device. The app handles encoding the gameplay into video, sending it to your screen, and relaying your commands back, making it feel like you’re playing locally, even though the heavy lifting happens remotely.

 

What are the Best Tools for Remote Desktop Gaming (and How They Stack Up)

Now that you know what remote desktop gaming is and what you need to get started, the next question is: which tools should you use? There are several great options available, each with its own strengths and limitations. From seamless integration with your existing game library to advanced features like custom key mapping and automation, these tools make it possible to stream your PC games to almost any device. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular choices.

 

1. OSLink 

OSLink is a modern remote desktop tool built with gamers in mind, offering smooth 60 FPS streaming, ultra-low latency, and flexible control options. Unlike many alternatives, OSLink goes beyond just PC-to-mobile streaming, it integrates with LDPlayer, allowing you to play mobile games on PC and then stream them back to your phone, complete with premade keymaps and advanced features. Gamers can also set up combo keys for complex rotations or automate repetitive actions with interval clicks, making both casual play and grinding sessions easier than ever.

 

Strengths:

• Low-latency streaming with high frame rates.

• Supports PC and mobile games (via LDPlayer integration).

• Advanced controls like combo keys, auto-click, and custom key mapping.

• Works across multiple devices with simple setup.

 

Limitations:

• Newer tool, so community support and guides are still growing.

• Requires both devices to be logged into the same OSLink account for setup.

 

2. Steam Link 

Steam Link is Valve’s official solution for streaming your Steam library from your gaming PC to almost any device. It’s built directly into Steam, so setup is as simple as installing the Steam Link app and logging in. It supports Remote Play Together, meaning you can invite friends to join even if they don’t own the game, making it perfect for casual multiplayer sessions. While performance can dip on weaker networks, it’s the most seamless choice for players already invested in the Steam ecosystem.

 

• Strengths:

  • Simple setup for Steam users.

  • Supports Remote Play Together, enabling multiplayer with friends, even cross-platform.

  • Runs on a wide range of devices, including phones, TVs, and even VR headsets.

 

• Limitations:

  • Performance depends heavily on your network; lag and quality can suffer.

  • Best within the same network, remote play can be spotty unless you have robust bandwidth.

 

3. Parsec 

Parsec is designed from the ground up for low-latency game streaming, making it a favorite among competitive players and creative professionals who need precision. Beyond personal remote play, Parsec shines in co-op experiences, letting friends “couch play” together across the internet with buttery-smooth responsiveness. Its customizable streaming settings and business-grade features have even made it popular in esports and remote work. The free tier is solid, but higher resolutions and bitrates may require a subscription.

 

• Strengths:

  • Extremely responsive (great for fast-paced games and workflows).

  • Easy cross-device setup with no port forwarding needed.

 

• Limitations:

  • Free version has bitrate/resolution caps; higher tiers require payments.

  • Recent removal of remote “friends invites” limits its multiplayer usability.

 

4. Moonlight + Sunshine 

Moonlight is an open-source streaming client originally built on Nvidia’s GameStream technology, and paired with Sunshine (an open-source host app), it works on almost any modern GPU. It’s praised for its stunning video quality, supporting ultra-high bitrates, 4K resolution, and even AV1 codec streaming. Gamers who want the absolute best visual fidelity without paying for premium services often choose Moonlight. The only tradeoff is setup complexity: getting WAN streaming to work may involve port forwarding and manual tweaks, but once configured, it delivers a premium experience with zero subscription cost.

 

• Strengths:

  • Exceptional video quality, supporting up to 150 Mbps bitrate and AV1 codec.

  • True 4K/5K streaming, multi-monitor support, and no subscription fees.

 

• Limitations:

  • Requires manual port configuration for WAN access (less straightforward than Parsec).

  • Slightly higher setup complexity, but great payoff if configured properly.

 

Pick What Works for You 

• Want ease and Steam integration? Try Steam Link.

• Need top-tier responsiveness? Parsec is your friend.

• Go for high-end quality with no cost? Go Moonlight + Sunshine.

• Need mobile-friendly flexibility and extra tools? Stick with OSLink.

 

How to Use OSLink for Remote Desktop Gaming 

As we mentioned earlier, OSLink is a secure and versatile remote control tool that turns your gaming PC into a streaming hub, letting you play your favorite PC games on mobile devices, phones, tablets, or even other computers. Users benefit from ultra-low latency, high frame rates (up to 60 FPS), and flexible input options such as touch, keyboard, mouse, or Bluetooth controllers.  

It also supports sharing your PC screen with friends (via “Play Together”), running multiple instances through LDPlayer emulators, and managing synchronized control across windows, great for multi-account play or automation.

 

Step-by-Step Setup for OSLink 

 

• Install OSLink on Both Devices

  • Download and install the Windows desktop client from the official OSLink site. 

  • On your mobile device (Android or iOS), find and install the OSLink app from the Play Store or App Store.

   

• Log into the Same Account: Ensure both your PC and mobile app are logged into the same OSLink account for seamless connection. 

 

• Connect and Launch “Game Mode”: In the mobile app, select your PC from the list of available devices. Activate 60 FPS gameplay mode via the toolbar to enjoy smooth streaming.

 

• Choose Your Control Method: You can use on-screen touch controls, connect a Bluetooth controller, or use virtual keymaps. OSLink also supports custom key mapping and presets for popular titles. 

 

• Play & Enjoy: Launch your game on the PC, and it’ll stream directly to your mobile screen, feels just like playing natively but powered by your PC.

• Optional: Expand with LDPlayer: For more advanced usage, like running mobile versions or multiple game instances, OSLink integrates with LDPlayer, enabling remote access and control of emulator windows from your phone. You can also share gameplay with friends and automate repetitive actions using its macro or auto-click features. 

 

What Can You Play with OSLink? 

• The short answer: anything you want. With OSLink, there are no real limitations, if your PC can run it, you can stream and play it on your phone, tablet, or another device.

• 🎮 PC Blockbusters Anywhere – Want to dive into World of Warcraft or GTA V RP with FiveM on your phone? OSLink makes it possible, with premade key mappings that cut setup time so you can jump straight into the action.

• 📱 Mobile Games on PC (via LDPlayer) – Thanks to its built-in LDPlayer integration, you can also play mobile titles on PC and then stream them back to your phone. This means smoother performance, plus access to advanced features like macros and multi-instance play.

• ⚡ Smart Controls for Any Game – Features like combination keys let you set up rotations for complex games with just one press. Imagine pulling off your full combo in Zenless Zone Zero or Genshin Impact flawlessly every time.

• 🌱 Make Grinding Easy – Tired of repetitive button mashing in farming games like Stardew Valley or Mabinogi Mobile? OSLink’s repeating action button can auto-click at intervals, making tasks like planting, harvesting, or fishing far less tedious.

• 🌊 New Titles, No Problem – Whether it’s Wuthering Waves or the latest MMO, OSLink’s customizable key mapping ensures you can adapt controls to fit any game quickly.

• In short, OSLink doesn’t just let you play remotely, it makes your gaming experience smoother, smarter, and more convenient.

 

FAQ: Remote Desktop Gaming 

• Can I play any PC game with remote desktop gaming?
• Yes, as long as your PC can run it, you can stream it to your phone, tablet, or laptop using tools like OSLink, Steam Link, Parsec, or Moonlight.
• Do I need a powerful phone or tablet to play?
• No, the game runs on your PC, your mobile device just streams video and sends controls.
• Is internet speed important for remote gaming?
• Yes, a stable Wi-Fi or 5G connection reduces lag and makes gameplay smoother, but even mid-range speeds work fine for most titles.
• Can I use a controller with remote desktop gaming?
• Absolutely. Bluetooth controllers are supported by most apps, and OSLink even offers customizable key mapping for complex games.
• Does remote play work outside my home?
• Yes, with the right setup you can play anywhere with a reliable internet connection.

Conclusion

• Remote desktop gaming has evolved from a clunky experiment into a smooth, accessible way to play PC games anywhere. While several tools can get the job done, OSLink stands out for its low latency, powerful customization options, and integration with LDPlayer for mobile gaming. Whether you want to farm more easily in Stardew Valley, pull off perfect combos in Genshin Impact, or bring GTA V RP to your phone, OSLink makes it seamless. Ready to try it yourself? Download OSLink today and turn your gaming PC into a portable powerhouse.