Apple vs Epic Aftermath: A New Era for Game DTC

Naavik Gaming Podcast

Apple’s forced policy shift following the outcome of its legal battle with Epic Games has opened the door for more flexible Direct to Consumer (DTC) strategies, and game studios are taking notice. Host Devin Becker welcomes Chris Faught, CEO of Neon, to break down what this decision means for developers. Chris clarifies the broader implications of the ruling, the mechanics of implementing DTC models, and how this update impacts developers operating across different genres and regions.

The conversation explores how studios should be thinking about DTC integration internally, what practical steps to take next, and how these changes might alter monetization strategies moving forward. Chris also offers insight into how webshops can be used to their full potential, what teams are best suited to act quickly, and where the market is headed over the next 12–24 months. Whether you’re already experimenting with DTC or still figuring out how this ruling affects your business, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s changing and what to do about it.

We’d like to thank Overwolf for making this episode possible! Whether you're a gamer, creator, or game studio, Overwolf is the ultimate destination for integrating UGC in games! You can check out all Overwolf has to offer at https://www.overwolf.com/.

We’d also like to thank Lightspeed Venture Partners for making this episode possible! With its dedicated gaming & interactive media practice, the firm invests from an over $6.5 billion pool of early and growth-stage capital. If you’re interested in learning more, go to https://gaming.lsvp.com/.

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Sound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.