apple expands apple arcade with classic app store games
Apple Arcade Expands with New Game Categories
Apple has revealed an expansion to its gaming subscription service, Apple Arcade. Beyond offering exclusive game releases, the company is introducing two new categories: Timeless Classics and App Store Greats.
App Store Greats: Rediscovering Popular Titles
The “App Store Greats” category features well-regarded iPhone games released over the last ten years. Titles include Threes+, Mini Metro+, Monument Valley+, Fruit Ninja Classic+, Cut the Rope Remastered, and Badland+.
This represents a shift in strategy for Apple, which has previously concentrated on exclusive content. Notably, some Apple Arcade games are continuations of popular App Store titles, such as Mini Motorways and Rayman Mini.
Apple is now actively acquiring a catalog of past App Store games. Some of these titles remain available on the App Store, while others are no longer compatible with current iOS versions due to updates to frameworks and hardware.
The requirement for 64-bit processors, for example, has rendered numerous older games unusable.
A Premium Experience: No Ads or In-App Purchases
It’s important to note that Apple isn’t simply placing existing free games behind a paywall. These are fresh downloads from the App Store, providing users with the complete game experience, free from advertisements or in-app purchases.
Timeless Classics: Board Games and Puzzles
Alongside App Store favorites, Apple is also introducing “Timeless Classics.” This selection includes traditional board games and puzzle games available as part of the subscription. Examples are Backgammon+, Chess Play & Learn+, Good Sudoku+, and Tiny Crossword+.
These additions are expected to improve subscriber retention. Many players enjoy repeatedly playing games like chess and may subscribe specifically to maintain access to these apps.
Expanding the Apple Arcade Library
Today’s update brings 32 new games to Apple Arcade, bringing the total catalog to over 180 games. The service initially launched in September 2019.
A subscription costs $4.99 per month and includes access to all games without additional in-app purchases. Games are playable on the iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and macOS.
A single Apple Arcade subscription can be shared with up to six family members, and access is also included with an Apple One subscription.
Apple’s Subscription Strategy
Apple is heavily invested in subscription services, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Fitness+, and Apple News+. While some, like Apple Music, have seen significant success, the company continues to expand content offerings for other services.
This is intended to demonstrate the value of long-term subscriptions. The latest update to Apple Arcade is expected to bolster its game subscription service.
Romain Dillet
Romain Dillet: A Profile of a Leading Tech Journalist
Romain Dillet served as a Senior Reporter for TechCrunch until April 2025. Throughout his tenure, he became a recognized authority within the technology sector.
Extensive Experience and Expertise
Having authored more than 3,500 articles, Dillet has cultivated a strong reputation as a key voice concerning European technology. His areas of expertise are broad, encompassing startups, AI, fintech, privacy, security, blockchain, mobile technology, social media, and related fields.
Dillet’s thirteen years with TechCrunch have made him a well-known figure in tech journalism. He began his career at the publication at the age of 21, consistently providing coverage of Silicon Valley and the wider tech landscape.
Recognized Authority in the European Tech Scene
Currently based in Paris, Romain Dillet is widely regarded by many within the tech community as the most informed tech journalist in the city. His insights are highly valued.
Early Identification of Key Startups
A notable skill of Dillet’s is his ability to identify promising startups at an early stage. He was the first journalist to report on Revolut, Alan, and N26, all of which have become significant players in their respective markets.
Furthermore, he has broken exclusive stories regarding major acquisitions made by industry giants such as Apple, Microsoft, and Snap.
Technical Depth and Historical Perspective
Beyond his journalistic work, Romain Dillet is also a skilled developer. This technical understanding allows him to analyze the underlying mechanisms of new technologies effectively.
He also possesses a comprehensive understanding of the computer industry’s evolution over the last 50 years. This historical context enables him to connect innovations to their broader societal impacts.
Educational Background and Philanthropic Work
Romain Dillet is a graduate of Emlyon Business School, a prominent French institution specializing in entrepreneurship.
He actively supports several non-profit organizations, including StartHer, which focuses on the education and empowerment of women in technology, and Techfugees, an organization dedicated to assisting displaced individuals through technology.