It looks like Apple could be planning to release a ‘Netflix for games’ subscription service, according to a report from Cheddar that cites five anonymous sources.
The project is still in the early stages, given that Apple is reportedly still speaking to developers to gauge their interest in participating in the platform. The tech giant will also take a more hands-on approach when it comes to the release of games on the service, says Cheddar.
Similar to platforms like Sony’s PlayStation Plus, Microsoft’s Xbox Live Gold or Nintendo’s Switch Online, Apple’s Netflix-like service will reportedly offer access to a select number of mobile titles for a monthly fee. Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo’s online gaming platforms offer a variety of free titles to subscribers as long as they continue to pay the platforms’ fee. Microsoft is also working on a platform that will stream games live over the internet to subscribers.
Specific information related to pricing, the number of included titles and a launch date, remains unknown.
What’s most interesting about Apple working on its game subscription service is that it could evolve into an income stream for game developers that don’t want to take the free-to-play, in-app purchase monetization route.
As it stands, most of the iOS App Store’s most popular titles are free-to-play, with few developers opting for an outright purchase model. With Apple obviously viewing its services as a significant revenue opportunity, it’s unsurprising the company aims to diversify its offerings.
