July 31st, 2024

Apple Arcade developers say working with Apple is like in 'abusive relationship'

Game developers are increasingly dissatisfied with Apple Arcade, citing declining payments, project cancellations, and poor communication. They seek clearer goals and better support from Apple, especially for the Vision Pro.

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Apple Arcade developers say working with Apple is like in 'abusive relationship'

Game developers have expressed growing dissatisfaction with Apple Arcade, likening their experience to an "abusive relationship." Initially, the service was profitable, but developers report a decline in upfront payments and bonuses, alongside abrupt project cancellations. Many developers have faced delayed payments, sometimes lasting up to six months, which has jeopardized smaller studios. Communication issues with Apple are also a significant concern, with developers noting long response times and inadequate support. The recent launch of the Apple Vision Pro has further exacerbated frustrations, as developers struggle to create complex games for the headset due to a lack of guidance from Apple engineers. Developers have criticized the company's failure to provide essential information about the hardware and software, leading to confusion and inefficiency. While Apple expects indie developers to produce new games for the Vision Pro, it does not offer compensation or marketing support for these projects. Some developers believe that Apple views game developers as a "necessary evil," acknowledging the importance of gaming to its profits but lacking a clear vision for the future of Apple Arcade. Despite the challenges, some developers credit Apple Arcade with their existence in the industry. Overall, developers are calling for Apple to clarify its goals for the service and improve its communication and support processes.

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By @seydor - 7 months
Apple has made it very clear to everyone for many years that any relationship is going to be abusive, so this case should be classified as BDSM/fetish
By @not_your_vase - 7 months
But they stay. What do they expect? Very clearly, it is working perfectly for Apple. It would be quite irrational to give any unnecessary extra to the 3rd party devs, when they are happy to develop without that too.

(Oh, are they unhappy? Then do something about it, instead of posting anonymous quotes on a 2nd grade Apple tabloid)

By @lotsofpulp - 7 months
I find Apple Arcade very useful for finding games for kids that lack gambling mechanics. It's a shame Apple doesn't take it seriously.
By @RobRivera - 7 months
Whats stopping gamedevs from publishing outside the arcade? I'm unfamiliar with the Apple ecosystem.