The next big thing in gaming is in the clouds and that is evident in this year’s E3.  We’ve got Microsoft’s SmartGlass offering, then OnLive’s partnership with LG and Google TV, and of course Samsung won’t be left out in the race.

Microsoft’s SmartGlass

SmartGlass is an app that qill soon be available on Windows 8 PCs and tablets as well as Windows Phone smartphones, and Android and iOS tablets and smartphones.  Everything will be stored in the cloud so all users need to do is sync their existing devices to their Xbox 360 to instantly have a second screen for gaming, browsing, or chatting.

When you’re watching a video on your tablet or smartphone, you can continue watching on your SmartTV by using SmartGlass.  And when you’re already watching on the big screen, you can use your smartphone or tablet to check additional information about the show you’re watching.  What’s unclear though, is the gaming part.  Some are suggesting that when you’re playing on your Xbox, you can continue playing the game on your smartphone or tablet, but that hasn’t been confirmed yet.  And since it’s not yet ready for a commercial release until Fall, there’s a huge possibility that that feature will be available.

OnLive’s SmartTV offering

OnLive,  the pioneer of on-demand cloud gaming, is eliminating the need to buy expensive gaming consoles as they expand their offering to SmartTVs.  OnLive is demonstrating the OnLive Game Service on the next-generation LG Smart TV with Google TV (G2 Series) from LG Electronics at Booth #535 at the South Hall at E3.

LG G2 TV owners will also enjoy free instant access to exclusive OnLive social features such as worldwide massive spectating, the brand-new OnLive MultiView spectating capability, Brag Clip video recording and Facebook sharing.  Gamers will only need the Universal OnLive Wireless Controller or any compatible game controller to turn their LG G2 TV into the ultimate gaming platform.

Samsung Cloud Gaming

Samsung is not about to get left behind in the cloud gaming arena as they bring cloud gaming to SmartTVs.  Samsung Cloud Gaming will stream a mix of family-friendly and AAA video games directly to Samsung SmartTVs without having to do anything.  Yeah, you read that right, users won’t need to do anything – no downloading or installation required.

This offering is made possible with Samsung’s partnership with Gaikai, a leading cloud-based video game platform provider.

“We could not be more thrilled to be working with Samsung” said David Perry, CEO of Gaikai Inc. “Samsung Cloud Gaming will greatly expand the reach of the best games our industry can provide, then make them just as accessible as movies, TV shows and music.”

Electronic Arts

Electronic Arts Inc. wants to connect them all – every game version of a single game played on different hardware—such as video game consoles, PCs and smartphones—or on web-based social networks.

“At its core, we’re trying to give consumers a single idea across all platforms,” said John Riccitiello, EA’s chief executive. “We’re building ultimately a much more valuable business.”

EA wants gamers to be able to play their favorite games on any device without losing any saved points or progress.  And of course, it would all be possible with the magic of the cloud.  If a player starts playing on a tablet, he can choose to continue playing on his smartphone, PC or gaming console without having to start over.