Apple Set to Reiterate Gaming Ambitions at WWDC | Opinion

In just over a week, Apple will kick off its annual WWDC event, marking the beginning of another cycle in the company's attempt to convince the gaming industry of its commitment to the sector. This familiar ritual, which often skips a year or two, typically involves Apple presenting impressive gaming statistics, showcasing a notable developer's work, and announcing new iOS features tailored to gaming. Despite the recurring nature of this dance, it's essential to acknowledge the significance of Apple's platforms. With 2.35 billion active Apple devices worldwide, the potential for growth in the gaming market is substantial. Although the existing mobile gaming market is considerable, it only scratches the surface of what could be achieved with Apple's installed base. A genuine commitment to gaming from Apple would be a significant step towards realizing this potential. This year's WWDC may feature a new gaming-centric app, replacing the current Game Centre with a more streamlined game launcher. The app could encompass games from other stores on macOS, similar to the Apple TV app, and offer various editorial and social features. While it's unclear whether this represents a comprehensive overhaul of Apple's gaming services, the move could signal a positive shift in the company's approach to gaming. The acquisition of RAC7, a micro-studio behind the successful Apple Arcade game Sneaky Sasquatch, may also indicate Apple's growing interest in gaming. Although the studio will continue to operate autonomously, the acquisition suggests that Apple is willing to invest in gaming talent and expertise. Apple Arcade, despite being launched with fanfare, has flown under the radar in recent times. However, hints suggest that it may be performing well commercially, driving subscription numbers and retention metrics for the Apple One service. The core concept of offering well-vetted games without microtransactions and ads remains compelling, particularly for parents. As Apple prepares for WWDC, it's crucial to consider the company's strategic moves in the context of the evolving gaming landscape. With legislative and legal developments pointing towards the potential opening up of Apple's platform to third-party app stores or streaming apps, the company may be preparing for a significant shift in the gaming industry. The threat from game storefronts, such as Epic, Steam, and Xbox, is real, and Apple's era of taking gaming revenue for granted may be coming to an end. While rethinking its gaming app software and acquiring a small studio are positive steps, they may not be enough to guarantee success in this new landscape. Nevertheless, these moves could indicate the beginning of a more substantial commitment to gaming from Apple, and it will be essential to watch the company's progress closely in the coming years.