According to a report from mobilegamer.biz (via AndroidAuthority), game developers are expressing concerns about the future of Apple Arcade. Some developers have even gone as far as to say there is “the smell of death” surrounding the service. It seems that Apple Arcade is facing some challenges, with reports suggesting a potential reboot to compete with Netflix’s gaming service.

Sources have also described Apple as “famously vindictive” and “spiteful,” particularly after discovering that some developers who worked on Apple Arcade had signed deals with Netflix. Despite these negative comments, some developers still maintain a positive relationship with Apple.

– One company credits its existence to the support received from Apple.
– Another developer appreciates the viability of premium games on mobile thanks to Apple Arcade.

While there is talk of a reboot for Apple Arcade, past attempts in 2021 led to project cancellations, upsetting several developers. The service has shifted its focus towards family-friendly games, causing frustration among developers who received conflicting feedback and lack of communication from Apple.

Developers have expressed concerns about diminishing payouts and bonus pool payments from Apple, making it less financially viable to release games on Arcade. Some sources believe that the lack of passion and respect for gaming at the top levels of Apple is the root cause of Arcade’s issues.

Many in the industry are looking towards Netflix and Google for potential competition that could drive improvements in the mobile gaming space. Developers hope that increased pressure from competitors will push Apple to invest more in Arcade’s success and relevance in the marketplace.