Long-time Apple Arcade developers shared how Apple cares less about the platform, citing the reduction and cancelation of multiple projects since 2021.
In 2019, Apple launched its video game subscription service that offers a vast library of video games for iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and macOS devices.
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Apple Arcade Developers Suffer Payment Issues
According to the report, initial upfront payments from Apple were generous during its launch with most of the games released gaining profit from the first day. However, the "bonus pool" payments started to reduce along with the suspension of several projects.
"We're going to see that amount and decrease and decrease and decrease until it's pennies," an Apple developer shared. In addition, the company also refused to explain the exact calculations for the payments.
The bonus pool payments used to be a benefit for games that have longer retention for gamers. This system affects short narrative-driven games and premium indie titles since they get less reach compared to others.
Developers Share Hardship to Promote on Apple Arcade
The developers also expressed their frustration with promoting using the platform. According to one developer, they have to "beg" to get a feature on the Arcade tab.
"Getting that banner featuring at the top is like squeezing blood from a stone," the developer added.
Meanwhile, some developers are suggesting that Apple could revamp the platform after seeing the rising competition from Netflix's gaming service.
"It all depends on how much buy-in there is from those guys at the top, and I don't think they really value Arcade or invest in it the same way you see them invest in music or TV," the developers stated.
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