Angry Birds Bounce and Kingdom Rush Join Apple Arcade in July

In a significant update to its gaming platform, Apple Arcade will welcome two highly anticipated titles on July 3, 2025: 'Angry Birds Bounce' and 'Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD Plus'. This move marks a continuation of Apple's strategy to enhance its subscription gaming service, which offers ad-free gameplay for a monthly fee of $7 (approximately £7, AU$10).

'Angry Birds Bounce', developed by Rovio, introduces a fresh twist to the classic franchise that first captivated mobile gamers in 2009. The game retains the beloved characters, including Red and Chuck, and presents a new challenge where players must reclaim their island from the pigs. Unlike its predecessors, 'Bounce' incorporates brick-breaking mechanics and rogue-like elements, requiring players to employ precision shots to progress through the levels.

Similarly, 'Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD Plus', created by Ironhide Game Studio, continues the award-winning tower defense saga. Players can select from 15 heroes, construct 17 unique towers, and navigate through 22 intricate campaign stages while battling more than 40 types of enemies. This edition maintains the humorous tone familiar to fans of the series, promising a blend of strategy and entertainment.

The expansion of Apple Arcade's library follows a trend of increasing content diversity aimed at attracting a broader audience. The subscription model, which allows users to access multiple games without interruptions from ads or paywalls, has been well-received since its launch. According to a report by Sensor Tower, as of May 2025, Apple Arcade has amassed over 200 games, demonstrating a growing commitment to the gaming sector.

Experts suggest that the inclusion of these popular franchises can enhance user retention. Dr. Emily Thompson, a gaming industry analyst at the University of Southern California, noted, "Apple's investment in recognizable titles like Angry Birds and Kingdom Rush is a strategic move to boost subscriber numbers and engagement on their platform."

The upcoming launch is expected to coincide with the release of more content in the Apple Arcade, including casual games like 'Suika Game Plus' and 'Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets Plus'. These additions reflect Apple’s aim to cater to a variety of gaming preferences, appealing to both casual and dedicated gamers alike.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, subscription services like Apple Arcade are becoming increasingly vital. With the ongoing development of exclusive content and partnerships with renowned game developers, Apple is positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the gaming industry.

Looking ahead, analysts predict that the success of Apple Arcade will depend on its ability to maintain a steady stream of high-quality content and innovative gameplay experiences. As the service celebrates its expansion with iconic franchises, the future of mobile gaming appears increasingly intertwined with subscription models, paving the way for new business strategies in the digital entertainment landscape.