The popular mobile puzzle game, Block Blast!, which topped download charts last year, is set to debut an ad-free version on Apple Arcade. Apple announced this addition on Tuesday, revealing that Block Blast!+ will be available on the subscription gaming platform starting September 3. This new release comes as the game boasts approximately 725 million lifetime installs, with some estimates suggesting that figure could be as high as 868 million, according to app intelligence firm Appfigures.
Alongside Block Blast!+, Apple Arcade will also introduce other titles on September 3, including the 2025 App Store Award winner Art of Fauna: Cozy Puzzles+.
According to Apple’s internal data, Block Blast! was the most downloaded free iPhone game in 2025 and has maintained its position as the top game in early 2026. This information is corroborated by developer Hungry Studio and third-party app analytics platforms like Sensor Tower.
Despite ongoing growth, with Block Blast! attracting tens of millions of new users monthly, the decision to launch an ad-free version raises questions. The studio previously reported high engagement levels, citing 70 million daily active users and 300 million monthly active users worldwide. The game was also promoted at this year’s Coachella, suggesting continued potential for growth.
However, data reveals a decline in downloads from their peak in late 2024, when the game was achieving nearly 50 million downloads each month. This decline suggests that Block Blast! is maturing, making it a suitable candidate for Apple’s subscription service.
For dedicated players, the ad-free version will finally eliminate the frustration of intrusive ads that appear after each game session. Previously, users would often close the app to skip ads before restarting, an experience that many fans have long requested to change. The introduction of this ad-free option through Apple Arcade will address that concern.
Apple Arcade costs $6.99 per month, granting access to over 200 games, with options to bundle it with Apple One plans starting at $19.95 per month.
Additional games launching on Apple Arcade on September 3 include NFL Retro Bowl ’27, Coloring Games for Families+, and Let’s Play! Oink Games+, which is a collection of nine digital tabletop games.
