2026 State of Apple Arcade: Worth it? Where is it Headed?

Apple Arcade heading into 2026 feels like it’s trying to sharpen its identity as the “premium, no-nonsense” option: 200+ games, no ads, no in-app purchases, and a single subscription price (in Canada, $8.99/month). Apple’s also signalling more “headline” moments like Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Arcade Edition arriving Feb 5, 2026. So… is Arcade becoming a must-have bundle perk, or is it still a “nice to have” depending on your taste?

Questions:

1. Are you subscribed in 2026? If yes: Apple Arcade alone or Apple One?

2. What makes Arcade worth it for you (or not worth it)?

3. Do big adds like Civ VII move the needle, or do you care more about indie/cozy/puzzle variety?

4. Where do you actually play most: iPhone / iPad / Apple TV / Mac (controller or touch)?

5. What’s one thing Arcade should improve in 2026 (discovery, multiplayer, deeper games, family stuff, Apple TV experience, etc.)?

6. Drop 3 Apple Arcade games you’d recommend right now and one you bounced off of (and why).