Resident Evil 7, Capcom’s acclaimed survival horror game, recently made its way to iOS devices. While the original 2017 release was highly praised, its mobile port seems to be struggling to find an audience. Let’s examine why this critically acclaimed title might not be resonating with iPhone users.
A Lukewarm Reception
Recent data suggests that Resident Evil 7’s iOS version, launched on July 2 for $20, has been purchased by fewer than 2,000 players. This tepid response raises questions about the viability of AAA game ports on mobile platforms.
Comparing AAA Ports on iOS
Resident Evil 7 isn’t alone in its struggles. Other high-profile ports have faced similar challenges:
- Assassin’s Creed Mirage: Only 3,000 purchases after 120,000 free trial downloads
- Resident Evil 4 Remake: Around 7,000 sales after 357,000 downloads
- Resident Evil Village: Approximately 5,700 purchases in six months
Why the Struggle?
Several factors may contribute to these games’ poor performance on iOS:
- Higher price points compared to typical mobile games
- Gameplay designed for consoles, not optimized for mobile experiences
- Control issues with touchscreens or cumbersome external controllers
- Mobile gamers’ preference for quick, pick-up-and-play experiences
The Future of AAA Games on Mobile
As Apple continues to push for more console-quality games on iOS, the question remains: Will publishers continue investing in these ports if they fail to generate significant revenue? The coming months may determine the future of AAA gaming on mobile platforms.
While Resident Evil 7 is undoubtedly a great game on consoles, its iOS port seems to be facing an uphill battle in finding its audience. As the mobile gaming landscape evolves, it remains to be seen whether such AAA titles can carve out a niche in the smartphone market.