Apple has acquired a new development studio—not a large company with hundreds of employees, but a tiny team of just two people. The studio is called RAC7 and is best known for the game Sneaky Sasquatch, which has been one of the top titles on Apple Arcade for years. The acquisition is unusual, but strategically interesting. For players who regularly use Apple Arcade, this could be an important sign.
Apple, the technology giant, is rarely associated with game development. While Apple Arcade exists, the company's focus has so far been on hardware, iOS, and services. However, the purchase of RAC7 demonstrates that Apple is investing selectively and purposefully in the games market—not with large acquisitions, but with small, effective decisions. That's exactly what RAC7 represents: a small, creative team of developers that has found a permanent place in the Apple world.
This is RAC7
RAC7 is an independent game development duo from Canada. The studio consists of just two people, but has made a name for itself with several titles. Particularly well-known are the games Dark Echo, Splitter Critters, and, of course, Sneaky Sasquatch. The latter was released in 2019 and has regularly appeared in the top spots on Apple Arcade ever since. Sneaky Sasquatch has built a loyal fan base through regular updates, original ideas, and charming gameplay. The game is not only entertaining but also technically sound—a good example of what small studios can achieve.
Apple takes over, but differently than usual
According to a report from Digital Trends, Apple has acquired RAC7 for an undisclosed sum. What's unique about this deal is that it's not a traditional acquisition with integration into a larger development team. Instead, RAC7 will continue to work internally at Apple, but as an independent unit. The development duo will therefore remain and continue exactly where they left off – working on the further development of Sneaky Sasquatch. Apple has also officially commented on the acquisition. A spokesperson said:
We love Sneaky Sasquatch and are excited that the two-person RAC7 team has joined Apple to continue working on it with us.
A small deal with a big impact
The purchase of RAC7 is likely financially insignificant for Apple. Compared to other investments by the company, the amount is likely very small. Nevertheless, this step demonstrates that Apple is specifically committed to securing content that is important for Apple Arcade. Sneaky Sasquatch is a fan favorite and one of the platform's flagships, so it makes sense that Apple is planning for the long term. The decision is not part of a large-scale shopping spree. Apple has emphasized that it will continue to work with external game studios—both large and small. The acquisition of RAC7 was an exception that arose due to the circumstances.
Apple and the games market
Apple has so far shown no ambition to become a traditional game publisher. Nevertheless, the company is trying to make its platforms—especially Apple Arcade, but also the Mac—more attractive to game developers. New technologies like Apple Silicon and better graphics APIs are steps in this direction. The purchase of RAC7 fits this pattern: selective improvements, not spectacular acquisitions. Apple invests where it makes sense—in proven, popular content that keeps users loyal to the platform.
Sneaky Sasquatch gets a safe home at Apple
With the acquisition of RAC7, Apple is taking a small but thoughtful step in the gaming space. The two-person studio will remain, continue to operate internally at Apple, and continue to manage Sneaky Sasquatch. For you as a player, this means: The game will remain, will be further developed, and is secured for the long term. Apple remains true to its policy – no aggressive acquisitions, but rather targeted investments in content with potential. RAC7 is an example of how Cupertino is strengthening Apple Arcade with small means without losing control over creative studios. (Image: Apple)
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