Apple Acquires RAC7 Studio for Sneaky Sasquatch Growth

Apple has made its first-ever acquisition of a video game studio, purchasing RAC7, a two-person development team known for creating the popular Apple Arcade exclusive game Sneaky Sasquatch. This move marks a significant milestone for the tech giant, which has historically focused on hardware and software development rather than game creation. RAC7, previously credited with indie titles Dark Echo and Splitter Critters, released Sneaky Sasquatch in 2019. The game quickly became a standout hit among the 71 launch titles on Apple Arcade, receiving regular updates and garnering a dedicated fan base. Apple's acquisition of RAC7 is seen as a unique situation, driven by the company's desire to support the growth of Sneaky Sasquatch within the Apple Arcade ecosystem. The team will now operate as an internal studio, continuing to develop and enhance the game under Apple's guidance.

Apple has emphasized that this acquisition does not signal a broader shift in its gaming strategy. The company remains committed to collaborating with third-party studios of all sizes to create games for Apple Arcade. This approach has been successful, with the service consistently releasing new titles on a monthly basis. Recent additions include a new Katamari Damacy game, a sequel to Space Invaders: Infinity Gene, and Apple Vision Pro exclusive Gears & Goo. The acquisition of RAC7 underscores Apple's dedication to its Arcade service, which has been a major success story since its launch. The service has garnered positive feedback from users worldwide, with Sneaky Sasquatch being cited as a particular favorite among families.

The move to acquire RAC7 comes amid rumors of a potential reboot of the Game Center, Apple's gaming platform. While the company has not officially confirmed these rumors, the acquisition of RAC7 suggests that Apple is exploring new avenues to enhance its gaming offerings. The tech giant has also been reported to be planning the launch of a dedicated gaming app by the end of 2025, further indicating its commitment to expanding its presence in the gaming industry. This strategic move aligns with Apple's broader goal of providing a comprehensive entertainment experience for its users, integrating gaming seamlessly with its existing ecosystem of devices and services.