Overall Findings

  • Subscription to Luna+ game channel is required to access games.

  • Powered by AWS cloud technology.

  • Integration with Twitch broadcasting.

  • Cloud streaming is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

  • Powered by Microsoft’s Project xCloud technology.

What both Luna and Game Pass have in common is the fact that users do not have to purchase games separately. While subscribers do not “own” the games they play through these services, they will have free access to these catalogs as long as their subscriptions are active. Where Luna and Game Pass diverge are the breadth and depth of their game libraries and on which devices these users can play them on.

Games Library: Each Service Has Their Own Niche

Microsoft has accumulated an extended list of games for Xbox Game Pass over the year, with all titles from Xbox Game Studios available alongside numerous third-party games. Fans of Halo, Gears of War, Forza Motorsport, and other Xbox-exclusive titles will be able to play all of their favorite games at no additional cost. Similar to video streaming services like Netflix, these third-party titles come in and out of Xbox Game Pass due to business deals.

  • Luna+ channel subscription includes free access to 100+ games.

  • Third-party game channels available through additional subscriptions.

  • Includes first-party Xbox titles (i.e. Halo and Forza Motorsport).

  • Game library includes free access of “most” of the 200+ titles in Xbox Game Pass.

  • Rotating selection of third-party titles from other publishers.

The Xbox team boasts over 200 titles on Xbox Game Pass, and “most” of these games are available to stream. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will also begin to incorporate games from the EA Play service as part of a deal, giving Xbox owners the ability to stream EA’s selection of sports, racing, and action titles.

Unlike Xbox Game Pass, Luna offers additional game channels from other publishers. The first of these channels is from Ubisoft, which will include AAA games such as Watch Dogs Legion and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla in their game channel. However, these separate channels require their own subscription plans.

Device Support: With Workarounds Luna Supports More Devices

  • Windows 10 (with support for DirectX 11).

  • macOS 10.13 or higher.

  • Fire TV Stick (2nd gen), Fire TV Stick 4K, or Fire TV Cube (2nd gen).

  • Chrome desktop web browser, version 83 or higher.

  • Safari mobile web browser on iOS14 or higher.

  • Android device with version 6.0 or higher.

When Microsoft ran the Project xCloud beta as a prelude to game streaming on Xbox Game Pass, the service supported both Android and iOS devices. When cloud gaming for Game Pass launched, Android phones remained the only platform that supported the service. Due to Apple App Store guidelines, Xbox Game Pass streaming is unavailable on iOS devices. Microsoft has stated that cloud streaming for Xbox Game Pass will eventually come to Xbox consoles and PC.

Internet Requirements: Both Have Good Speeds, Luna Can Be a Data Hog

  • Supports 2.4 GHz connection.

  • 5 GHz connection recommended.

  • 10 Mbps connection speed required.

  • 35 Mbps connection speed required to play in 4K.

  • “Up to” 10GB data usage per hour at 1080p.

  • 2.4 GHz networks may receive interference.

  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.

  • 10 Mbps connection speed required.

  • Over 2GB data usage per hour.

Controller Input: Even Controller Support Is Different

Naturally, Xbox users can use their existing Xbox One game controller for Xbox Game Pass streaming. However, only Xbox controllers that came with or after the Xbox One S will be compatible, as Xbox controllers from there on out are Bluetooth-enabled. This will include the controllers that come with Xbox One X, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.

  • Luna controller.

  • Xbox One controller.

  • PlayStation DualShock 4.

  • Mouse and keyboard.

  • Xbox wireless controller.

  • MOGA XP5-X Plus Bluetooth Controller.

  • Razer Kishi.

  • 8BitDo SN30 Pro.

Microsoft also touts specific third-party controllers that are designed specifically for Xbox Game Pass streaming. The MOGA XP5-X Plus Bluetooth Controller resembles a traditional Xbox controller, but it includes a clip for your Android phone and a power bank. Razer Kishi attaches controllers to the side of your phone, making your device resemble a Nintendo Switch. And the SBitDo SN30 Pro is a “retro-style” controller that also includes a mobile device clip.

Otherwise, Luna users can also utilize an Xbox One controller, a PlayStation DualShock 4 controller, or a mouse and keyboard. Luna controller owners can use their controller through Bluetooth or USB connection for other devices, but it will be incompatible with other game consoles.

Graphical Performance: Luna Offers Better Quality

  • Games stream at 1080p.

  • 4K support for “select titles” coming soon.

  • 720p at 60Hz.

When Microsoft’s Project xCloud was in beta, the service only supported a resolution of 720p at 60Hz. Games may have appeared blurrier than they would on television, but this provided some smooth frame rates.

Final Verdict: The Newcomer vs. The Establishment

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