Yesterday Apple revealed the top apps and games of the calendar year. Apps and games have come a long way from the compass app or Flappy Bird, and Apple knows that better than anyone. In New York, the company had its first show honoring the games and apps. It didn’t have a Livestream, or even coverage from the company until the following night, but the excitement of the winners is enough for many to be satisfied. Although there was nothing new announced at the event, it still was something worth paying attention to.
“Developers around the world inspire us all with innovative apps that have the power to influence culture and change our lives, and this year that is as true as ever. The 2019 App Store Best Apps and Games winners reflect our global desire for connection, creativity and fun,” said Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “We are excited to announce such a diverse group of 2019 App Store winners, showing that great design and creativity comes from developers large and small, and from every corner of the world. We congratulate all the winners and thank them for making 2019 the best year yet for the App Store.”
Below, we will be listing each of the winners and a small snippet of what the app or game is best known for. You can find the full Apple list on their website.
Best Apps of 2019
iPhone App of the Year: Spectre Camera (Lux Optics)
This is an AI-powered app that is incredibly technologically advanced. It allows anyone and everyone to capture long-exposure photos with their iPhone camera.
iPad App of the Year: Flow by Moleskine (Moleskine)
Draw, sketch, and take notes in this beautiful app made from the ground up for the iPad. This is the premier way to create with the iPad.
Mac App of the Year: Affinity Publisher (Serif Labs)
with an elegant design and easy-to-use features, this makes pro-level design to everyone. Whether you’re making a book or a second-grade play flyer, this is the app for you.
Apple TV App of the Year: The Explorers (The Explorers Network)
This app for your TV was made to help people understand what the world looks like beyond what they have seen. Your TV and audience will thank you later.
Best Games of 2019
iPhone Game of the Year: “Sky: Children of the Light” (thatgamecompany)
Flying is the name of the game as you soar through the air with the greatest of ease while trying to complete a groundbreaking social quest.
iPad Game of the Year: “Hyper Light Drifter” (Abylight S.L.)
Fighting for your life while dreaming is a common struggle people go through, and it is going to be brought back to your memory with this game. Dazzling action with vivid lights makes for an unforgettable experience.
Mac Game of the Year: “GRIS” (Devolver / Nomada Studio)
Digital art rarely makes it onto the games it was meant for. This game highlights everything there is love about putting your life back together after a tragic loss.
Apple TV Game of the Year: “Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap” (DotEmu)
TV games haven’t been on the market for too long, but they have already proven they’re here to stay. 80’s meets today in a game you and your parents will love playing.
Apple Arcade Game of the Year: “Sayonara Wild Hearts” (Simogo)
The Apple Arcade ranges across all platforms, but this game was the best for all of them. Apple Arcade is a subscription worth having entering 2020, as they have proved their worth early on.
