Apple Arcade to add Madden NFL franchise for the first time with Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition

Synopsis

Apple Arcade adds Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition and Retro Bowl College+ on August 6. NFL Retro Bowl '27 launches September 3 with a new Gauntlet Mode. Existing sports titles like NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition receive significant updates. Free introductory experiences for select games are now available on the App Store. Apple Arcade remains priced at ₹99 per month in India.

Apple is expanding its gaming subscription service with one of the biggest names in American sports. Starting August 6, Apple Arcade subscribers will be able to play Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition, marking the first time EA's long-running football franchise will be available on the service.

Unlike the console and PC versions that include multiple monetisation features, the Apple Arcade version will be available without advertisements or in-app purchases. Players will have access to Franchise and Quick Play modes, with Franchise mode featuring weekly storylines, dynamic player ratings based on real-world NFL performances, and team management mechanics.

The game will support current NFL teams and will be playable across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV, with controller support available on supported devices.

The addition comes as Apple continues to strengthen the sports gaming catalogue on Arcade. Alongside Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition, the company is also bringing Retro Bowl College+ to the platform on August 6, allowing players to coach one of 250 college football teams.

A month later, on September 3, NFL Retro Bowl '27 will launch with a new Gauntlet Mode. The mode challenges players to complete a 15-game winning streak while balancing increasingly difficult opponents, limited resources and player progression.

Apple also announced updates for several existing sports titles on the service. NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition now includes two-time NBA All-Star Tyrese Maxey as a new Paragon player, alongside a new 2016-2024 era in The Association mode. PGA TOUR Pro Golf has added Bear's Best Atlanta as a new playable course, while NFL Retro Bowl '26 introduces Historic Super Bowl challenges inspired by memorable championship games.

Beyond sports, Apple is also expanding access to Arcade by introducing free introductory experiences for select titles on the App Store, including PowerWash Simulator, Mini Motorways, Cooking Mama: Cuisine! and Play-Doh World. These demos allow users to try the games before subscribing to the service.

Apple Arcade is currently priced at ₹99 per month in India and is also included with Apple One subscription plans. Customers purchasing a new iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple TV continue to receive three months of Apple Arcade at no additional cost.