Apple Arcade Just \"Does Not Understand Gamers\" and Frustrates Game Devs

Apple Arcade: A Double-Edged Sword for Game Developers

Apple Arcade, while offering a platform for mobile game developers, has reportedly caused significant frustration among its creators. A Mobilegamer.biz report reveals widespread discontent stemming from various operational issues.

Developer Concerns on Apple Arcade

A recent "Inside Apple Arcade" report paints a mixed picture. While some studios acknowledge Apple Arcade's role in their survival, many express deep dissatisfaction. Key issues highlighted include payment delays, inadequate technical support, and frustrating discoverability problems.

Payment and Support Delays

Multiple developers reported extensive delays in receiving payments, with one indie developer citing a six-month wait that nearly bankrupted their studio. Communication with Apple's team is also a major hurdle, with developers describing weeks or even months of silence in response to emails. Technical support, when received, is often unhelpful or insufficient.

Discoverability and QA Challenges

Discoverability is another significant concern. One developer described their game as being "in a morgue" due to a lack of promotion from Apple. The rigorous quality assurance (QA) process, requiring the submission of thousands of screenshots to cover all device aspects and languages, is also criticized as excessively burdensome.

Mixed Perspectives

Despite the negative experiences, some developers offer a more nuanced perspective. Several acknowledge Apple Arcade's improved focus on its target audience and the significant financial support that has kept their studios afloat. The financial backing, in some cases, has been crucial to their survival.

Apple's Lack of Gamer Understanding

The report suggests a fundamental disconnect between Apple and its game developers. One developer asserts that Apple "100% does not understand gamers," citing a lack of data sharing regarding player behavior and interaction with games on the platform. The prevailing sentiment among many developers is that they are treated as a "necessary evil" by Apple, with little reward for their efforts.

In conclusion, Apple Arcade presents a complex situation for game developers. While financial support can be a lifeline, significant challenges related to payment, communication, discoverability, and a perceived lack of understanding from Apple remain major sources of frustration.