There are 2,144,877 apps available on the Apple App Store, of which 250,059 are gaming apps. If you are wondering how to make an iPhone game, there are many things you need to understand before venturing into this space, including its market stats.
iPhone game development is gaining popularity in the mobile app development space and will generate over US $98.74 billion in revenue worldwide in 2024. And this will lead to the projected market volume of US$118.90 Billion by 2027.
These stats reflect the user inclination towards mobile games, specifically in the iOS game segment. So, before investing in this segment, you should understand the process of mobile game development for iOS.
In this article, we will discuss how to create iOS games and the essential features, along with the cost of developing an iOS gaming app.
What Are iOS Games?
iOS games are video games that are designed to run on Apple’s iOS operating system, which powers devices like the iPhone, iPad, and iPad Touch. These games can be downloaded and played through the App Store, Apple’s digital distribution platform.
They come in various genres, including action, adventure, puzzle, simulation, and more. The games often leverage the unique features of iOS devices, such as touch controls, motion sensors, and high-resolution displays, to create engaging and interactive experiences.
Some of the popular iOS games are Pokemon Go, Candy Crush Saga, Among Us, and Fortnite. These gaming platforms have a vibrant community and are continuously growing with new releases and updates.
With this being said, let’s understand the nitty-gritty of iPhone game development.
Understanding iOS Game Development
The iOS gaming app development process involves creating and designing the game specifically for the iOS operating system. iOS mobile application development starts with market research, designing, developing, testing, and deploying games on the iOS platform.
iOS game development requires a deep understanding of game design principles, user experience, and mobile device capabilities. Game developers use programming languages like Swift or Objective-C, along with development frameworks like SpriteKit, to develop a game with Unity.
Moreover, these frameworks provide tools and libraries for creating interactive graphics, handling user input, managing game physics, and implementing game logic.
Market Trends Related To The iOS Mobile Games
The iOS gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation in 2024. Honor of Kings was the top-grossing gaming app for iPhone worldwide and generated over 136.4 million U.S. dollars from iPhone users in September 2024.
The Apple Arcade continues to reshape subscription-based gaming while hyper-casual games maintain their strong appeal among casual players.
In 2023, iOS generated $47.7 billion in revenue from mobile games, which was 59% of the total mobile game revenue, according to BOA.
The rise of cloud gaming services and cross-platform titles has created new opportunities for iOS developers, with significant publishers increasingly bringing console-quality experiences to iOS devices.
The gaming apps accounted for around 12 percent of all the mobile iOS apps hosted in the App Store during the second quarter of 2024, according to Statista.
Source: Statista
This surge in iOS gaming app development is due to the integration of advanced technologies like AR, powered by iPhone’s LiDAR sensors, which has made immersive gaming experiences possible.
Another trend in the iOS gaming community is the social gaming feature, which is crucial with multiplayer and community-driven games.
With the continuous advancement of mobile hardware capabilities, the line between mobile and console gaming grows, creating a pool of opportunities for entrepreneurs and iOS gaming developers to push creative boundaries.
List Of Top iPhone Games Ruling Market
The App Store is filled with millions of games of different genres. So, before investing in creating an iOS game app, consider researching the market to provide game enthusiasts with a unique gaming concept loved by the iOS gaming community. Here is a list of top iPhone gaming apps ruling the market for quite a long time.
| Game | Available on | Year of launch | Number of downloads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wordle | iOS/Android | 2022 | Over 2 million |
| Genshin impact | iOS/Android | 2020 | Over 50 million |
| Call of Duty | iOS/Android | 2019 | Over 100 million |
| Fortnite | iOS/Android | 2018 | Over 350 million |
| Among Us | iOS/Android | 2018 | Over 100 million |
| Pokemon Go | iOS/Android | 2016 | Over 1 billion |
| Clash of Clans | iOS/Android | 2012 | Over 500 million |
| Minecraft | iOS/Android | 2009 | Over 200 million |
Benefits Of Developing An iOS Game
One of the major reasons for investing in iOS gaming app development is that gaming apps are the most popular Apple App Store categories as of the 2nd quarter of 2024 by share of available apps. So, when you create a new iPhone game, it offers several benefits for entrepreneurs planning to enter this segment.
Take a look at why investing in iOS game development is a smart move:
1. Expand User Base
The iOS ecosystem, which includes millions of iPhones and iPads worldwide, provides access to a substantial and active user base. The Apple App Store is one of the most popular and trusted platforms, making it easier for users to find and download your game.
2. Enhanced user experience
iOS devices are known for their reliable and consistent performance, which can greatly enhance the gaming experience. Apple’s strict design guidelines and quality standards ensure that iOS games come with smooth, polished visuals and interfaces that players appreciate.
3. Revenue Potential
iOS users are more likely to spend money on in-app purchases and premium content, making monetization easier. Whether you choose a freemium model, paid downloads, or in-app purchases, iOS offers solid opportunities to generate revenue.
4. Security and reliability
Apple’s App Store and iOS devices are known for their secure environment, thanks to rigorous app review processes and built-in security features. This reduces the risk of malware and security issues, helping to build trust with players and improve retention rates.
5. Seamless integration
iOS games can easily connect with other Apple services like Game Center, iCloud, and Siri, providing added features and a more enriched user experience. This can allow for cross-platform gameplay, leaderboards, and social sharing options, making your game more engaging and appealing.
6. Better for reputation
Launching a successful game on iOS can enhance your studio’s reputation and brand presence, as the App Store is known for its high-quality offerings. Success in this competitive space can open doors to more opportunities and further establish your brand as a reputable game developer.
Different Types Of Games You Can Opt For Development of iPhone
The app store is full of millions of games, all of which have been made from scratch, ranging from arcade to adventure. The end point is you can prefer working on any of the app types that you idealize. However, it is always good with the trend to get the most players for your game.
| Types of Game Type | |
|---|---|
| 1. Battle Royale Games | 2. Sports Game |
| 3. Multiplayer Games | 4. MMO Games |
| 5. Adventure Games | 6. Strategy Games |
| 7. Card Game | 8. Puzzle Games |
| 9. RPG | 10. Arcade Games |
How To Make An iPhone Game?
How to Make An iPhone Game? (Update) 300
Developing a successful iOS mobile gaming app is no small feat. The development process consists of different phases and steps, including technical and non-technical ones. By following these steps, you can make an iOS game, take a look:
1. Market research and analysis
Start with brainstorming and sketching out your game concept because the development of the iOS gaming app must be based on strong research and analysis. Think about what type of game you want to create (e.g., puzzle, action, adventure) and what will make it stand out. Consider gameplay mechanics, storyline, graphics, and what kind of experience you want your players to have.
Moreover, analyzes the existing competitors in the iOS gaming landscape and evaluates all the requirements in prior, such as features and strategies. This will help you when you create a new game for your iPhone.
2. Planning and prototyping
Outline the specifics of your game, such as levels, characters, and objectives. When considering a top game development company, mostly after this, the team concentrates on developing an app blueprint in the second stage so that the project’s developers can start to work on the project’s prototype.
The prototype presents a basic notion of the project. Create a simple storyboard or game design document (GDD) to map out how everything will come together. Additionally, if required, alter the prototype as appropriate.
Once the prototype has been approved, it could be an expensive and time-consuming effort to execute the change.
This helps keep your project organized and gives a clear vision of what to build.
Still, it is wise to make the necessary changes before actual development.
3. Choose Your Development Tools
Now, to bring your vision to life, you’ll need the right set of tools. Most developers use game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine because they are powerful, user-friendly, and support iOS development.
If you’re new to iOS game development, Unity’s C# scripting is beginner-friendly, while Unreal Engine uses Blueprint for visual scripting.
4. UI/UX design & game asset development
After the prototype has been approved, the app’s user interface and user experience are designed. Gamers will be more engaged if the UI/UX is lucrative. Also, work on the sound effects and music of the game. If you don’t have a team of artists, you can hire freelancers or use asset stores like Unity.
Just make sure the style of your visuals matches the theme and tone of your game. The app’s fundamental coding work is being done concurrently with the app’s core development. The essential functionality of the game is ensured by programmers, who also develop the code.
5. Build and Code the iPhone Game
Now, it’s time to combine your assets and gameplay mechanics. Develop each feature step-by-step:
– Write code for character movement, interactions, and game logic.
– Implement physics and collision detection to make the game world feel real.
– Add audio for an immersive experience.
6. iOS GameTesting and Debugging
This is the final stage of development an app goes before release. Use tools like TestFlight, Apple’s beta testing platform, to have others play and provide feedback. The quality assurance team continuously tests the app.
Unit tests, component tests, integration tests, performance tests, end-to-end tests, regression tests, sanity tests, system tests, graphics tests, and many other types of tests are carried out. Make sure your game works well on various iPhone and iPad models and that any bugs or issues are resolved.
7. Prepare for App Store Submission
Once all issues have been resolved and the software is functioning flawlessly, it’s time to prepare it for app store submission. Ensure your game follows Apple’s guidelines for apps.
Prepare screenshots, an appealing description, and other marketing materials for your game’s App Store page. Set up your App Store listing in App Store Connect.
8. Launch & Market Your iOS Game App
Submit your game to the App Store for review. While waiting for approval, start building hype by promoting your game on social media, game forums, or with a trailer on YouTube.
The approval will take time, but once it is approved, your game will be live for players to download. However, there is still a lot more work to be done to market the app and make it more well-known.
9. Monitor and Update
After launch, timely updates are an essential part of the process. You can monitor player feedback and track in-app analytics, then use this data to improve your game through updates, fix any remaining bugs, and add new features to keep players engaged.
Cost To Build An iPhone Game
So, you are wondering what it takes to build an iPhone game these days. You’re probably looking at spending anywhere from $30,000 to $300,000 or more.
The cost to build an iPhone gaming app can be significantly lower for simple casual games compared to more advanced iOS gaming apps with complex features and functionality. The final price really depends on how complex your iOS gaming concept is. Whether you want 3D graphics, multiplayer features, or fancy animations, all bump up the cost.
Let’s break down the main costs:
First, you’ll need a game developer who can run you $50-150 per hour, depending on their experience and location. Art and design work is another big chunk – character designs, backgrounds, UI elements, and all that visual stuff typically costs $25-100 per hour. If you want music and sound effects, budget another $500-2,000 for basic audio.
Consider starting with a simpler version of your game idea. Launch with core features first, then add the fancy stuff later based on player feedback. That way, you can keep initial costs lower while testing if people actually enjoy your game concept.
Technological Stack For iPhone Game Development
To build an iPhone game app, you need the right set of tech stack, which includes selecting the appropriate programming languages, frameworks, and tools that will optimize performance and user experience.
| Category | Tech stack |
|---|---|
| Game Engine | Unity, Unreal Engine |
| Programming Language | Swift, Objective-C |
| Development Environment | Xcode, AppCode, Visual Studio |
| Frameworks | SpriteKit for 2D, SceneKit for 3D, Metal for high-performance graphics |
| Graphics and Design Tools | Visual Studio, Blender, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop |
| Audio Tools | Audacity, Spine |
| Version Control | FMOD/WWise, GitHub/GitLab |
| Asset Management | Unreal Marketplace |
| Cloud Services | AWS (Amazon Web Services) |
| Game Testing | TestFlight, Appium, Unity Remote |
| Monetization | AdMob, In-App Purchases (IAP) |
| Analytics | Unity Analytics, Google Analytics |
Top Game Engines To Make An iPhone Game
Today, there are plenty of game engines available in the market for building an iPhone game. It’s obvious to get confused in the sea of development options.
Choosing the right game engine is your crucial first step, whether you’re dreaming of designing your own iPhone game or wondering how to make your own game for the App Store.
Nowadays, game engines offer powerful tools that transform complex development tasks into manageable projects, even for beginners.
From industry giants like Unity and Unreal Engine to specialized iOS-focused solutions, each engine brings unique advantages to the table. These platforms not only simplify the technical aspects of game creation but also provide the foundation you need to turn your creative vision into a polished App Store release.
Let’s explore the top game engines that can help you navigate your journey from concept to successful iPhone game launch.
| Game Engines | Ease of Use | Platform Support | Updated Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unity | High | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web, Consoles, VR/AR | May 30, 2023 |
| Clickteam Fusion 2.5 | Moderate | Windows,macOS, iOS, Android, Web | March 2023 |
| App Game Kit 2.0 | Moderate | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | December 2022 |
| LibGDX | Moderate | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web | Feburary 2023 |
| jMonkey3 | Moderate | Windows, macOS, Linux | December 2022 |
| Solar 2D | High | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web | September 2022 |
| Unreal Engine | Moderate | Windows,macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web, Consoles, VR/AR | April 2023 |
| Titanium | High | Windows,macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | March 2023 |
| Cocos 2D | High | Windows,macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Web | December 2022 |
| Cry Engine | Moderate | Windows, macOS, Linux, Consoles, VR/AR | March 2023 |
Challenges And Considerations During The Development Of iPhone Games
Creating iPhone games goes far beyond just coding and creativity. Today’s developers face a complex landscape where technical challenges meet fierce market competition. From optimizing performance across different iPhone models to navigating Apple’s strict App Store guidelines, each step presents unique hurdles.
With millions of games already available, standing out requires not just innovative gameplay but also careful consideration of user experience, monetization strategies, and technical optimization.
These challenges shape the journey from concept to successful launch in the competitive mobile gaming space.
1. Limited Memory
iOS devices often have memory and storage limitations. Unlike Android devices, iPhones do not have the ability to identify unnecessary objects and cannot reuse resources that might have been freed by deleting those objects. So, at the time of development, one should maintain a balance between possible memory constraints and game performance. So, the different versions of the phones require different amounts of memory for the correct functioning of the application. Thus, to overcome this, one should get rid of unnecessary functions that might take extra memory and complicate the work.
2. Weak Battery
Games are one of the most energy-consuming tasks that any device can have. The more one wants the game to be as colorful and versatile as possible. But the more you diversify and complicate it, the more battery charge will be required. So, it is challenging to find the appropriate combination of gaming features. Mobile games should be fun but not overly challenging and thus can leave powerful gaming features for PC and consoles. These also cannot be seen on the small screen, so instead of these features, we can focus on the compatibility of the device and make sure to test the app for the power consumption of the device.
3. Special UI/UX
iOS games are always known for their interface. Thus, a clear and unencumbered design requires a lot of work and experience. A good interface results in retaining the users and also new users to come again and again. Developers should also keep in mind not to put anything extra. Studying the latest trends for iOS can assist in avoiding the same styles when creating interfaces.
4. Testing Problems
One of the challenging parts of making an iOS game is testing. Due to the presence of a lot of details and a lot of rules, iOS game developers have to overlook one of the most important points in checking the quality of the game. A frivolous attitude towards testing or ignoring can lead the game to certain loopholes that can spoil the game’s first impression among the users.
What Skill Should You Look For When Hiring iPhone Game Developers?
Hire a game development company with a team of expert developers who can build creative, engaging, and user-friendly games.
| Skills | Description |
|---|---|
| Technical Skills | C, C#, and C++ programming languages, game engines, and networking |
| Problem-Solving Skills | Resourcefulness and easy adaptability |
| Game Development Skills | Experience working with game development platforms and tools, animation, 3D modeling, and appealing design. |
| Soft Skills | Teamwork, critical thinking, seamless communication, and collaboration. |
Specific Game Developer Skill Set
- Understanding of Core Data
- Experience with Xcode IDE
- Knowledge of source control
- Experience with memory management
- Experience with unit testing
- Expertise in Cocoa Touch and UIKit
- Proficiency in Grand Central Dispatch
- Understanding of code versioning tools, like Git
- Experience of UI/UX design standards
- Knowledge of RESTful APIs
How Can EmizenTech Help You?
Are you ready to bring your game idea to life but unsure where to start? EmizenTech steps in as your dedicated iPhone app development company, transforming concepts into engaging App Store successes.
Our team of iOS developers combines technical expertise with creative flair, handling everything from initial design and coding to performance optimization and App Store submission.
Whether you’re picturing a casual puzzle game or an immersive 3D adventure, we bring over a decade of mobile game development experience to your project.
What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach.
We don’t just code – we collaborate with you through every stage, from refining your game concept and creating captivating graphics to implementing seamless monetization strategies.
Our developers stay ahead of the latest iOS technologies and App Store guidelines, ensuring your game not only looks great but performs flawlessly across all iPhone devices.
Speaking of best, you maintain control while we handle the technical heavy lifting. Start building your iPhone game success story with us and turn your gaming vision into reality.
Conclusion
When starting iPhone game development, choose to navigate this path independently or partner with an experienced mobile app development company. The success lies in careful planning, understanding market dynamics, and maintaining unwavering quality standards.
The mobile gaming industry continues to evolve, offering endless opportunities for those ready to rise to the challenge. With the right tools, expertise, and development partner, your game idea can find its place among the millions of apps that entertain users worldwide.
If you are a business looking to enter the gaming market, the world of iPhone game development awaits your unique contribution. Let’s transform your gaming vision into an App Store success story. Take that first step today by connecting with us and getting a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How Long Does It Take to Develop an iPhone Game?
The average casual game takes several weeks to several months, depending upon the complexity of the development. It also includes other factors, such as different features you choose to put in the game.
Q. Do I Need a MacBook to Make an iPhone Game?
Yes, you need a Mac to deploy or submit an iOS game to the App Store. Xcode, the fundamental integrated development environment (IDE) for iOS development, is compatible only with Mac OS. Besides the graphical interface, Xcode is used to write iOS apps.
Q. What Programming Language Is Commonly Used to Develop iPhone Games?
Most commonly, Swift and Objective C are the programming languages used in iOS development to build games for devices like iPhones, macOS, and many others.
Q. Can I Port My iPhone Game to Other Platforms, Such As Android or PC?
Yes, you can port iPhone games to another platform, such as Android or PC. Certain processes take place during the entire porting process; thus, sometimes, it can take much more time than expected due to the graphic adjustments. Optimization and adjustments according to the device can port one game for another. The process can be hard to implement; however, we at Emizentech, as a game development company, can help you with the process smoothly and within the deadline.
Q. Are There Any Legal Considerations when Developing An iPhone Game?
There are two things that one should do while developing a game: first, confirm your ownership of all the elements in a mobile game. Second, you should register for copyright registration so that no one has permission to copy or develop your game or parts of it.
+1 (989) 535-9295
