Mobile gaming has evolved significantly over the past two decades, transforming from simple casual distractions to fully-fledged, console-quality experiences right in the palm of your hand. Today, the mobile gaming market is more vast than ever, largely dominated by free-to-play titles vying for your engagement.
With the launch of Apple Arcade in 2019, Apple introduced a premium alternative—a carefully selected library of games completely free from in-app purchases and advertisements. Since its inception, it has steadily grown into one of the top gaming subscription services available, offering hundreds of high-quality titles for one flat monthly fee.
Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of Apple Arcade, featuring standout games, compatible devices, and instructions for activating the free trial.
Does Apple Arcade Offer a Free Trial?
1 Month Free
Apple Arcade
1See it at Apple
Yes, Apple Arcade offers a very generous 1-month free trial for anyone interested in exploring the service. Even better, if you buy a new Apple device—such as an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV—you'll receive three months of Apple Arcade at no cost.
What Exactly Is Apple Arcade?
Apple Arcade launched in 2019 to widespread critical acclaim, arriving after years of low-quality mobile titles and aggressive microtransactions. Rather than focusing on premium-priced games, Apple adopted a Netflix-style, all-inclusive model. Subscribers gain unlimited access to a library of more than 200 games without any ads or in-game purchases.
In the six years since its debut, Apple has curated an impressive and growing collection, regularly adding popular titles such as Balatro, Vampire Survivors, Dead Cells, and Stardew Valley. It also offers enhanced editions of classic mobile favorites like Angry Birds, Temple Run, and Jetpack Joyride.
All Apple Arcade Games
Find the best iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV games with this sortable Apple Arcade games list -- and track, rate, and review your personal favorites. Updated through April 2025.See All
What truly sets Apple Arcade apart is its seamless integration within Apple's ecosystem. One subscription provides access across nearly all Apple screens—including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and even Apple Vision Pro. If you prefer tactile controls, you can connect a mobile gaming controller or any compatible Bluetooth controller you already own, such as a DualSense or Xbox Wireless Controller.
Because Apple Arcade is exclusive to Apple devices, your game progress automatically syncs via iCloud. This lets you seamlessly continue playing on any compatible device. Additionally, your subscription can be shared with up to six family members using Family Sharing, so the entire household can join in.
What Is the Cost of Apple Arcade?
1-month free
Apple Arcade
0$6.99 at Apple
After the free trial ends, Apple Arcade is priced at $6.99 per month. You also have the option of an annual subscription for $49.99 per year, though you'll need to manually switch from the monthly plan after subscribing.
To change your plan, go to your Apple Account in the Settings app and select Subscriptions. Tap on Apple Arcade to switch to the yearly billing option.
How to Use Apple Arcade - Supported Platforms
Apple Arcade is accessible on nearly all modern Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro.
