Apple’s first gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade promises users a premium experience – but is it worth the fuss?
The Arcade offers exclusive access to hundreds of games from the Apple App Store at a fixed monthly rate, eliminating the need to pay for individual games and microtransactions.
For R84,99 per month with the first month free when you subscribe for the first time, Apple users can install over 180 ad-free games across a range of devices, including the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad with at least iOS 13 or iPadOS13, and any Mac computer with at least macOS 10.15
If you’re considering joining the Apple Arcade, here’s what you need to know:
Cost Factor
The monthly rate gets you full access to a curated list of premium and free games. You can also add up to five other family members to the plan or sign up to another subscription plan that is more suited to those who use multiple devices for their gaming needs.
The Apple One subscription gives you access to Apple Arcade, as well as Apple TV+, Apple Music, and iCloud storage. It is perfect for those already paying for other services and would like all their costs grouped into a single payment to save money. You can choose from Individual, Family, and Premier bundles, which range between R41 – R86, 95.
Multi-Platform Service
The best part of Apple Arcade is its multi-platform feature that allows you to play most games on any Apple device without losing your saved files.
This means you can start a game on your Apple TV, move to your iPhone and complete the mission on your Mac!
However, there are some limitations because certain games are exclusive to devices – iPhone, iPad and iPod touch – while some are only accessible on Apple TV and require a controller.
The service also offers an online gaming feature, meaning you can enjoy endless hours of fun even when you're not connected to the Internet.
Growing Games List
Once you’re subscribed to Apple Arcade, you will have a mix of new, exclusive titles and timeless classics at your fingertips.
Apple recently added around 30 games to the Arcade library, including revived classics such as NBA 2K21 Arcade Addition, Cut the Rope Remastered and Oregon Trail as well as some newer titles.
Although the tech giant’s list of games isn’t as long as other industry titans, there are plans to expand the library in the near future.
To Subscribe or Not to Subscribe?
The main drawcard of Apple Arcade is that gamers are able to enjoy a sizeable library with many high-profile titles without the interruption of ads, timers, in-app purchases or any other factors that affect game time.
But like most other subscription gaming services, the biggest downside is that you don’t own the games. This means, once you cancel, you no longer have access to the games. But if you’re an avid mobile gamer who doesn’t mind this catch, then Apple Arcade will suit you fine.
