Moonlight PC is a GameStream client for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Steam Link that enables remote game streaming from NVIDIA GameStream servers and Sunshine hosts.
The tool solves the problem of playing games hosted on a remote PC by streaming video and audio to the client machine while relaying input back to the host. It uses hardware-accelerated video decoding to minimize latency and CPU overhead, supporting H.264, HEVC, and AV1 codecs. The client handles multiple input methods including gamepads with force feedback, multitouch controls, and keyboard shortcuts, while offering both pointer capture for games and direct mouse control for desktop applications.
Moonlight suits anyone wanting to play games from a remote gaming PC across different operating systems. It works particularly well for users with NVIDIA GPUs on the host side, though it also supports Sunshine, an open source alternative streaming server. The project provides builds for conventional platforms as well as specialized hardware including Raspberry Pi, ARM single-board computers, RISC-V systems, and NVIDIA Jetson devices. The tool distinguishes itself through support for advanced streaming features like HDR, 7.1 surround sound, YUV 4:4:4 color, and up to 16-player gamepad support.
The project maintains a substantial base of real-world adopters, with nearly all open issues originating from outside users rather than the core team. Maintainers typically respond to new issues and pull requests within a few days. Work in the issue tracker centers on enhancements, external issues, and bug reports.
