In a revealing discussion with The Guardian, Alex Rofman, the senior director of Apple Arcade, emphasized that the platform was established with the intent of fostering fun and engaging gaming experiences, not generating profit. Launched in 2019 and later integrated into the Apple One bundle in 2020, Apple Arcade is set to mark its fifth anniversary as a prime hub for innovative gaming, particularly with Apple Vision Pro spatial games.
Rofman explains that Apple Arcade steers clear of traditional profit-driven gaming models, such as those involving timers or intrusive video ads. Instead, the service aims to provide games that wouldn’t typically have a chance in the conventional mobile game market. "We weren't looking to bring a match-three that was better than Candy Crush," Rofman said. "We focused on games that wouldn't have had an opportunity were it not for Arcade."
The service also supports game developers by funding the development of new titles, allowing creators to take risks without financial fear. Citing "Sneaky Sasquatch" as an example, Rofman highlighted how the game aligns with Apple’s non-violent, family-friendly values, presenting a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for all ages.
Despite some developers voicing concerns over reduced payments and canceled projects, Rofman asserts that Apple Arcade continues to value its partnerships with indie studios, providing a platform for creative and innovative ideas. He also noted that developers whose games show increasing player engagement could expect growing earnings from their bonus pools.
The executive stressed the importance of Apple Arcade as a trusted platform for family gaming, where parents can feel confident about the content their children access—free from the risks of unexpected in-game purchases.
As Apple Arcade moves forward, it remains committed to its original vision of delivering uniquely enjoyable games, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of creative, non-commercial gaming within the industry.
