Amazon will launch a “completely redesigned and reimagined” version of its Luna game streaming service later this year, which remains incorporated into the existing Amazon Prime subscription at no additional cost.
The service is aiming to deliver both a growing library of blockbuster, classic, and indie games, as well as social games through its new GameNight hub. These social games are designed to be played without a controller; instead players join on their phones using a QR code, a bit like Jackbox Games.
GameNight will feature exclusive family friendly games developed by Amazon, and will launch with over 25 games including GameNight-optimised versions of the likes of Angry Birds and Exploding Kittens, as well as board game adaptations.
The first of these exclusive games will be Courtroom Chaos: Starring Snoop Dogg, featuring an AI powered version of the rapper. It should be noted Snoop Dogg has recently been criticised for homophobic remarks about LGBT+ representation in children’s media.
Elsewhere, Luna will offer a growing library of over 50 popular games, though a further subscription to Luna Premium will be required for the full catalogue. The library will include the likes of Hogwarts Legacy, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and Dave the Diver.
Luna will continue to be accessible without a PC or console. Instead, games are streamed using a Fire TV, smart TV, or tablet. Any bluetooth controller is compatible, though Amazon will continue to sell a specific Luna controller too.
“With advances in AI and cloud technology, we see opportunities to create entirely new kinds of games – experiences that were never possible before,” said Luna general manager Jeff Gattis in a blog post. “We have an incredible pipeline of games in the works and can’t wait for you to play and experience the all-new Luna for yourself later this year.”
Amazon launched Luna in the UK back in 2023. However it has so far failed to gain significant traction, something former Amazon Games boss Ethan Evans acknowledged earlier this year as Amazon couldn’t compete with Valve’s Steam platform.
This update is something of a re-launch for Amazon, then, with its GameNight addition bringing an increased emphasis on social gaming.
“Gaming hardware is too expensive,” said Gattis. “Games are intimidating and hard to learn… and expensive. Games can be isolating. But, at the same time, Prime members know that games don’t have to be this way, and indeed, they tell us that they want games to be a way to bring friends and family together. To build connection. To bond. To have fun!”
