Can you play AION 2 on an iPhone? I tested it using Moonlight, Apollo, and three different control methods: touchscreen, a Backbone controller, and the compact MCON.
AION 2 isn’t running natively on my iPhone. I’m streaming it from my gaming PC with Apollo and Moonlight, using my custom Steam Input controller layout.
This article compares the three ways I played, and which one I’d pick. It follows my video on the same topic.
In this guide
- Is AION 2 a Mobile Game?
- Playing AION 2 on iPhone With Moonlight
- Touchscreen Controls
- Playing With the Backbone Controller
- MCON: Gaming on the Go
- Why I Prefer Portable PC Gaming
- How Apollo and Steam Input Make It Work
- Which Should You Pick: Touchscreen, Backbone or MCON?
- Gear I Used
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
- More AION 2 Guides
Watch the Full AION 2 on iPhone Video
If you’d rather watch than read, here’s the complete comparison on YouTube.
Is AION 2 a Mobile Game?
Not really. The game still runs on your gaming PC, and your iPhone shows the stream and sends your input back. A suitable network connection is required for streaming.
I’ve never been particularly interested in traditional mobile games. What I enjoy is playing my PC games in a portable form factor.
Playing AION 2 on iPhone With Moonlight
The setup uses two pieces:
- Moonlight on the iPhone, as the client.
- Apollo on the gaming PC, as the host.
If you’re new to this, my Apollo vs Sunshine article explains what each piece does.
Bitrate I use on the iPhone
For my iPhone I stream at 7 to 8 Mbps. If the picture looks blocky in motion and the stream is smooth, try raising it. If you see stutter, lower it.
Touchscreen Controls
The first method is the touchscreen. It works without any extra gear, so it’s the easiest way to try AION 2 on your phone. The video shows what it feels like in the game, so you can judge it for yourself.
Playing With the Backbone Controller
Next I play with a Backbone, which turns the iPhone into a handheld. It’s my pick for longer gaming sessions, at home or when I’m carrying a backpack.
MCON: Gaming on the Go
The MCON is the more compact option. When I want to travel light, it gives me a sleeker, more portable setup.
Why I Prefer Portable PC Gaming
I’ve done the same with games like Monster Hunter Wilds and Hogwarts Legacy, without buying a separate handheld gaming PC. Streaming my own PC games to a device I already carry is what appeals to me.
How Apollo and Steam Input Make It Work
Apollo and Steam Input are what make this setup possible. Steam Input lets me use my own controller layout for AION 2. You can find it in Steam’s community controller layouts for AION 2. Search for Eddy04. My PS5 controller setup article covers Steam Input and button mapping in more detail.
Which Should You Pick: Touchscreen, Backbone or MCON?
- Touchscreen: no extra gear, good for trying it out.
- Backbone: my choice for longer sessions at home or with a backpack.
- MCON: my choice when I want to travel light.
Which would you pick? Let me know in the comments on the YouTube video.
Gear I Used
Backbone Controller
The controller I use for longer sessions on my iPhone.
[Check the Backbone on Amazon]
Ohsnap MCON
The compact controller I use when traveling light.
Software
My Amazon Store | My Complete Streaming and Gaming Setup
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play AION 2 on an iPhone?
Yes, by streaming it from your gaming PC with Moonlight and Apollo. The game runs on your PC, not on the iPhone.
Which controller do you prefer?
The Backbone for longer sessions at home or with a backpack, and the MCON when I want to travel light.
What bitrate do you use on the iPhone?
I use 7 to 8 Mbps.
Do I need a controller?
No. The touchscreen controls work, but I prefer physical controllers.
What do I need to stream?
A gaming PC running Apollo, Moonlight on your iPhone, and a suitable network connection.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a handheld gaming PC to play AION 2 on the go. If you already have a gaming PC and an iPhone, streaming with Moonlight and Apollo gets you there. Watch the full video on YouTube to see all three control methods.
More AION 2 Guides
Free: Moonlight Streaming Cheat Sheet
Sunshine vs Apollo, a setup checklist, a bitrate guide for Wi-Fi and cellular, and video links for every step. Enter your first name and email and I'll send you the download link.
I'll email you a link to confirm, then your download. No spam, and you can unsubscribe anytime. Read the privacy policy.
Enjoyed this guide?
Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more gaming, tech and streaming guides. New videos every week.
