Apple recently announced new games coming to Apple Arcade, including the headlining title, “Vampire Survivors,” an indie hit that gained popularity two years ago for its combination of bullet hell shooter gameplay and the addictive quality of clickers. The game was previously available on the App Store with ads, but the Apple Arcade version, “Vampire Survivors+,” will offer a ad-free experience similar to PC and Xbox versions, with paid expansions included at no additional charge. Another upcoming game is “Temple Run: Legends,” a new take on the 2011 classic that introduces individual levels in addition to an optional endless mode.
These new additions to Apple Arcade reflect a trend of risk-averse choices by the service, opting for games with proven success or established intellectual properties rather than taking chances on unique or indie games. The shift in strategy came after early reports of Apple Arcade not gaining the traction the company had hoped for, leading to a focus on ongoing engagement and games-as-a-service models. While the curated selection offers value by removing ads and microtransactions, it may limit the potential for breakout hits that could draw more players to the service.
The current state of Apple Arcade showcases a subscription service that prioritizes proven success and established IPs over innovative or risky picks, leading to a curated collection of already popular games. While the service offers a valuable ad-free experience for players, it may lack the excitement and surprise of discovering unique indie titles that could attract a wider audience. Apple’s shift towards a safer approach to game selection has created a service that follows trends rather than setting them, potentially limiting its impact in the gaming market.