Antstream Arcade, a retro-focused game streaming service, is set to launch on iPhone and iPad on June 27th, making it the first third-party game streaming app to be officially available on Apple devices following the relaxation of the tech giant's App Store restrictions due to European law. Previously, services like Xbox Game Pass had to resort to web-based apps to bypass Apple's policies.
With Antstream Arcade, subscribers will have access to a library of over 1,300 games from classic consoles such as Atari, Sega, and Nintendo. Some of the iconic titles included in the collection are Asteroids, Centipede, Sam & Max Hit the Road, The Secret of Monkey Island, Super Star Wars, and Worms. The extensive list of games, categorized by platform, can be found on Antstream Arcade's website.
While Apple started allowing emulators on its platform earlier this year, enabling users to play retro games for free, these emulators do not include licensed games and require users to source ROMs online. In contrast, Antstream Arcade offers legally licensed games directly within its app, albeit for a fee. The service is priced at $42.99/year in Canada and is also accessible on Xbox consoles, Android devices, Samsung TVs, and more.
In conclusion, Antstream Arcade's arrival on Apple devices marks a notable milestone for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering a convenient and legal way to enjoy a wide range of classic titles from gaming history.