

TWIG #338 Apple’s Cat-and-Mouse Game, Xbox's Doom Loop, and Splitgate 2’s $100M Misfire
6 snips Jul 3, 2025
Recent layoffs are shaking up the Swedish gaming scene and Xbox is feeling the heat too. The discussion dives into Apple’s tense relationship with EU regulations and contrasts private equity with venture capital in gaming. Marvel Mystic Mayhem is struggling out of the gate, while Splitgate 2 faces tough questions about its future. The boys also reflect on the challenges smaller developers face in a landscape dominated by big studios, highlighting the need for innovation in these uncertain times.
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Xbox’s Hardware and Identity Crisis
- Xbox is struggling with hardware strategy and heavy reliance on Game Pass is risky.
- Without fresh hardware, Xbox risks losing its platform identity and falling behind competitors.
Apple’s DMA Fee Strategy
- Apple's response to EU DMA introduces new fees but reduces commission from 30% to effectively 15%.
- Small developers face complexity barriers while big players may benefit from the adjusted fee structure.
PE vs. VC in Gaming Explained
- Private equity targets mature, stable gaming businesses focusing on operational improvements.
- Venture capital invests early with high risks for outsized returns, often failing except for rare big winners.