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Wheels of Aurelia, the acclaimed narrative adventure game developed by the Italian studio Santa Ragione, is set to be removed from the App Store this month. Apple has labeled the game as ‘obsolete,’ triggering a heated debate within the gaming community about the criteria used for such assessments. But what does this mean for players and developers alike?
Details on the Removal
According to a statement from Santa Ragione, the game will remain available on iOS until July 25, 2025. In an effort to encourage more players to dive into this unique experience before it’s gone, the developers have made Wheels of Aurelia free to download. Released in 2017, this title has earned praise for its captivating storytelling and artistic style, amassing a devoted following over the years.
Apple’s justification for the game’s removal hinges on its policy that targets apps not updated within the last three years or those that fail to hit a minimum download threshold. This policy raises eyebrows, especially for games like Wheels of Aurelia, which are complete experiences that don’t necessarily require continuous updates. Is it fair to classify a completed game as obsolete?
The developers have pointed out that using download metrics as a criterion is particularly problematic for older games, which naturally see lower download numbers over time. They argue that these rules threaten the preservation of video games as a legitimate form of artistic expression.
The Developer’s Response
In a heartfelt announcement, Santa Ragione shared their disappointment, stating, “We announce with deep regret that our award-winning narrative game, Wheels of Aurelia, will soon be removed from the Apple App Store following the company’s recent decision to exclude the title from its catalog.” Despite their persistent efforts to seek clarification from Apple, the developers have received little more than a vague explanation about the need to remove ‘obsolete’ apps.
The studio further elaborated, “We firmly believe that removing fully functioning artistic works solely due to infrequent updates undermines the value and sustainability of video games as cultural and artistic products. Just like books, films, and music albums, video games represent complete creative works that do not necessarily require constant updates beyond normal technical maintenance.”
Implications for Independent Developers
Santa Ragione also highlighted the financial strain that unnecessary updates can impose on independent studios. They noted that such requirements can greatly hinder smaller developers in maintaining existing projects and innovating new ideas. How can indie creators thrive under these conditions? This issue is further exacerbated by Apple’s dominance in digital distribution, making the enforcement of these policies particularly challenging for indie developers.
In light of this situation, the studio has welcomed recent European Union regulations aimed at curbing monopolistic practices, advocating for greater fairness and diversity in the digital marketplace. As the gaming community rallies to support Wheels of Aurelia, the broader implications of this decision are unfolding, sparking a critical dialogue about digital preservation and the future of independent games. What will this mean for the future of creative expression in gaming?