Every Apple Arcade game and update coming in February

Apple Arcade — a CNET Editors’ Choice pick for 2021 — has over 230 games in its catalog and adds more almost every week. For just $5 per month (or $60 annually), the service offers original and exclusive titles like Fantasian (recently named Apple Arcade’s Game of the Year), Disney Melee Mania and Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis. 

You can also check out familiar games in the service’s App Store Favorites and Timeless Classics sections. These games are available in the App Store already, but with an Apple Arcade subscription, you can play them without ads and paywalls for no extra charge. 

Here’s what we’re looking forward to playing in February. 

Bloons TD 6

Developer: Ninja Kiwi
Release date: Feb. 11

Bloons TD 6 is a popular strategy game in a multi-title franchise from Ninja Kiwi, the makers of Red Reign. In the game, you must craft an impenetrable defense against invading Bloons and challenging bosses. You can play across 50 maps in single-player mode or battle with friends in public or private four-player co-op. The game also has an Odyssey mode, which offers 3-5 maps similar in theme, rules and rewards, instead of playing one map at a time. As you progress, you’ll unlock trophies, customizable gear, Bloons and more. 

Apple Arcade subscribers will be able to find Bloons TD 6 under App Store Greats. If you’re not an Apple Arcade subscriber, you can still play Bloons TD 6 for $5 in the App Sore. 

Wylde Flowers

Developer: Studio Drydock
Release date: Feb. 18

If you’re a fan of Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley and Cozy Grove, Wylde Flowers, an Apple Arcade Original will be a must-play when it arrives later this month. The game casts you as Tara, a young girl who’s just moved to the island of Fairhaven to help out on her family’s farm. Tend crops, fish, craft items, get to know your neighbors and maybe find love. The game sets itself apart with a supernatural twist — Tara is also a witch. In addition to her farming duties and social life, she must also hone her magical abilities, brew potions and master flying on her broomstick. 

Studio Drydock was founded by Amanda Schofield and Alex Holkner, who previously worked on The Sims.

“We were passionate about creating an experience with characters that felt like real people, and where players could see themselves represented,” Schofield said in a statement. “We also wanted to build a deep, rich storyline at the heart of Wylde Flowers, without the centering of combat that drives a lot of other games.” 

Gibbon: Beyond the Trees

Developer: Broken Rules
Release date: Feb. 25

Gibbon: Beyond the Trees is a new eco-adventure from Broken Rules, the award-winning indie developers behind Eloh and Old Man’s Journey. The Apple Arcade Original focuses on a lost Gibbon trying to find its way home amid growing dangers in the world like hunters, deforestation and the climate crisis. If you enjoyed the gameplay mechanics of titles like Alto’s Odyssey, you should check out this colorful, poignant, atmospheric endless runner-style game.

Traverse the trees and gain momentum to somersault across deep valleys, cities, construction sites and more. Broken Rules CEO Felix Bohatsch said that the project was sparked by learning about brachiation, or the ape’s natural ability to swing through the forest.

“As we researched gibbons and their existence in the world today, we realized there was a deeper story to tell,” Bohatsh said in a statement. “Deforestation, poaching and the climate crisis are making it harder and harder for gibbons to survive. We wanted the game to honor their struggle in our game.”

Stay up-to-date on the latest news, reviews and advice on iPhones, iPads, Macs, services and software.

Apple Arcade subscribers can also look forward to updates this month for these games: 

• What The Golf?
• Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls
• Zen Pinball Party
• Zookeeper World
• Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis
• Fruit Ninja Classic
• Temple Run: Puzzle Adventure
• Sp!ng
• Simon’s Cat
• Crayola Create and Play

You can get a three-month free trial of Apple Arcade when you buy a new Apple device, or one month for free if you’re signing up for the first time. To try the service out, open the App Store and tap the little joystick icon at the bottom of the screen. The Apple One subscription bundle makes it easier and more affordable to get up to six Apple subscription services, Apple Arcade included, for one price. Apple Arcade also teamed up with Verizon earlier this year to offer a free yearlong subscription with unlimited plans.

Article source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/apple-arcade-games-coming-soon/#ftag=CAD4aa2096