Apple, a tech giant recognized primarily for its innovative devices like iPhones and MacBooks, is making a significant move in the gaming sector by acquiring the two-person studio RAC7. This studio is known for developing the popular title “Sneaky Sasquatch,” originally released as an Apple Arcade exclusive in 2019. Following the acquisition, an Apple representative expressed excitement about having the RAC7 team join Apple, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing the gaming experience for Apple Arcade players. Since its release, “Sneaky Sasquatch” has consistently received updates and accolades, including the title of Apple Arcade Game of the Year in 2020.
This acquisition aligns with Apple’s strategy to bolster its gaming platform by nurturing homegrown talent while remaining open to collaboration with third-party developers. Digital Trends reports that Apple views this purchase not just as a means to improve RAC7’s offerings but also as a key component in delivering a diverse game library on Apple Arcade. Apple’s emphasis on maintaining relationships with other developers indicates a balanced approach, aiming to combine internal expertise with external creativity to enhance the gaming experience on their platform.
Apple’s foray into acquiring gaming studios is not a solitary endeavor in the tech industry, as companies like Netflix and Microsoft have taken similar steps. Netflix has invested in several gaming studios, including Spry Fox and Night School Studio, further diversifying its entertainment portfolio. Meanwhile, Microsoft has expanded its gaming footprint through acquisitions that include major industry names such as Activision Blizzard and Bethesda. These moves highlight a growing trend among tech companies to establish integrated entertainment ecosystems that feature both content and gaming.
The decision to invest in mobile gaming is particularly strategic for Apple, considering the lucrative nature of this market. According to a report from NewZoo, mobile gaming accounted for nearly half of the global gaming revenue in 2023, amounting to approximately $90 billion. With Apple Arcade already in place as a platform for mobile games, this acquisition appears to be a deliberate effort by Apple to seize a larger share of this profitable industry. This initiative underscores Apple’s aspirations to position itself as a key player in the ongoing mobile gaming boom, leveraging its existing user base and infrastructure.
In addition to enhancing its offerings, Apple’s acquisition of RAC7 reflects a broader commitment to evolve Apple Arcade into a top-tier gaming service. The company is likely to focus on providing high-quality, engaging games that attract and retain subscribers. The continual flow of new content and updates, as evidenced by RAC7’s history with “Sneaky Sasquatch,” will be crucial in optimizing user experience and satisfaction. As Apple aims to expand its gaming library, the cooperative dynamic between internally developed games and those from external studios will likely create a diverse and robust gaming ecosystem.
As Apple prepares to roll out new games and features within Apple Arcade, the community of gamers and developers alike is keenly watching these developments. With the influx of fresh titles in June and a more enriched gaming platform on the horizon, Apple’s strategic moves could redefine mobile gaming experiences in the near future. The combination of Apple’s technological prowess and RAC7’s creative expertise has the potential to deliver unique and memorable gaming adventures for users, further cementing Apple Arcade as a central player in the mobile gaming landscape.
