Apple Arcade boasts growing collection of classic games

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Shadow Blade+ hit Apple Arcade on March 4
Shadow Blade+ is the latest App Store Great added to Apple Arcade
Photo: Crescent Moon Games/Cult of Mac

Shadow Blade+ launched on Apple Arcade on Friday. The platformer is the latest classic game to make its way to the subscription service. Several others classics debuted in recent weeks, and more are expected soon.

This is in addition to original games that also hit Apple Arcade in February.

Many classic games are part of Apple Arcade

To beef up the number of games in its subscription service, Apple adds previously released titles and calls these App Store Greats. A “+” is added to the name, and the purchase price is $0.

Another difference between the new and the original version is that any in-app purchases have been stripped out. Apple Arcade doesn’t allow them. The same goes for ads, loot boxes and invasive player tracking.

Become a ninja in Shadow Blade+

In Shadow Blade+, players learn the skills of a ninja. Guide your character through challenging levels and around countless traps. The game features an array of weapons and 40 challenging levels.

The original version from 2013 costs $1.99. It has a 4.5 out of 5 user ranking on the App Store and won an Editor’s Choice award.

There are iPhone and iPad versions of Shadow Blade+ from Crescent Moon Games. It does not support external controllers.

Or become an engineer in Bridge Constructor+

‘Bridge Constructor+‘ on Apple Arcade
Are you smart enough for Bridge Constructor+?
Image: Headup

In February, Apple Arcade released Bridge Constructor+. As the name suggests, gameplay involves building bridges over deep valleys, canals, and rivers. Choose from a range of materials, such as wood, steel, cables or concrete pillars. Stress tests reveal whether the bridge you build can withstand continual use. But you must stay within budget.

The original is $1.99 and comes with in-app purchases. It has a 4.5 out of 5 user ranking.

Bridge Constructor+ by Headup is available on Apple Arcade for Mac, iPhone and iPad.

Bloons TD 6+ is a cheery tower-defense game

Many tower-defense games are life-or-death struggles. Not Bloons TD 6+. It’s about monkeys protecting towers from balloons. And it’s for 1 to 4 players, making it a possibility for family game night.

The original is $4.99 and comes with in-app purchases. It garnered a 4.8 out of 5 App Store ranking.

Bloons TD 6+ is available now on Apple Arcade for iPhone and iPad.

Coming soon: Monument Valley 2+

On March 11, Apple Arcade will introduce Monument Valley 2+. As the developer, Ustwo games says, gameplay involves “a journey through magical architecture, discovering illusionary pathways and delightful puzzles as you learn the secrets of the Sacred Geometry.”

It’s a sequel to a truly classic puzzle game which is already part of Apple’s gaming service.

Play these now on Apple Arcade

Access to all of these classic titles costs $4.99 a month. And one subscription works for up to six family members. As noted, there are never hidden costs in the games. In-app purchases are forbidden.

And these are in addition to all the original games created just for Apple Arcade.

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