All You need to know about Apple Arcade
One key highlight at the recently held Apple September event was Apple’s entrance to the world of cloud gaming. The service, simply called Apple Arcade, would allow iOS users to access to over 100 new and exclusive games for just $4.99.
Apple Arcade was actually launched in September. But a number of people on the public beta of iOS 13 have reported that the service was up and running for them almost two days before the official launch.
In addition, subscriptions appeared to be processing along with Apple’s one-month free trial as well. Currently, around 50 titles are available and can be downloaded and played immediately.
So rather than it being an accident or a leak, it appears that Apple was actually aware of the situation. They’ve also declined to comment about it as well. Similar to how Google Stadia operates, Apple Arcade also works across iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple TV, and Mac computers. So you can play a game on one device, and pick up where you left off on another device with no interruptions.
The interesting thing about Apple Arcade is the fact that all game add-ons and updates are covered in the subscription fee. This means you don’t have to spend again on DLCs and additional content for your favorite games. There are also no ads and the subscription also covers up to six family members which you can control.
Speaking of control, Apple’s tvOS will have support for third-party controllers. These include the PS4’s DualShock and Xbox One S controllers. In addition, iOS 13 will also support these controllers. So by extension, Apple Arcade will also have support for these controllers. This means that Apple has one-upped Google Stadia where the latter requires you to purchase a separate controller.
How do I sign up for Apple Arcade?
Well, that’s a fairly straightforward process. If you’re running a beta of iOS 13 or the official iOS 13 version, then you’re good to go. If not, you will have to update your Apple device to iOS 13. That again depends on if your device is supported by iOS 13 as well.
If your device is ready to sign up for Apple Arcade, then you will have the option to sign up for it. Also, do remember that signing up for the iOS 13 Beta may require you to wipe your device. If so, then you might lose all your data. Also, as it’s a beta, there may be a few bugs that need to be ironed out. But since iOS 13 officially launched as well, you’re better off just updating to the latest iOS version (provided your device supports it). In terms of the games themselves, Apple Arcade will feature games from companies such as Cartoon Network, Konami, Lego, Sega, and a few others. Apple would also be getting into the game development business and contribute to the development cost of games that are coming to Apple Arcade.
Google Stadia vs Apple Arcade: Which one should I pick?
Well, that’s not a decision for us to make. Each service has its pros and cons. For example, while Google Stadia can run on pretty much anything that has an internet connection and Google Chrome browser, it also requires you to pay for both the subscription as well as the price of the individual game itself. On the other hand, while Apple Arcade is just $4.99 per month it has 100 exclusive games to start.
But Google Stadia, on the other hand, promises both a mix of exclusive titles as well as general games too. Then there’s also the fact that you need an Apple device for Apple Arcade whereas Google Stadia can run on just about anything.
So all in all, both Apple Arcade and Google Stadia give us new ways to kick back and enjoy some games with friends and family. As for how well each service performs, well, we’ll just have to wait and see. Apple Arcade launched in September, whereas Google Stadia launches in November for the Founders Edition and 2020 for the free edition.