Gossip Harbour: A Mobile Game's Unexpected Move to Alternative App Stores
You've likely seen the ads, even if you don't play it. Gossip Harbour, a merge and story puzzle game, is a surprising success story. Developer Microfun has earned over $10 million on Google Play alone. However, instead of focusing on further Google Play promotion, Microfun, in partnership with Flexion, is venturing into "alternative app stores."
What are alternative app stores? Simply put, they're any app stores besides Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even prominent stores like the Samsung Store are dwarfed in comparison.
The Profit Motive and the Future of Mobile Gaming
The move to alternative app stores is driven by increased profitability. However, it's also a strategic move based on the growing importance of these alternative platforms. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of alternative app stores, leading to increased competition and opportunities. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are capitalizing on this shift with attractive promotions. Established games like Candy Crush Saga have already made the transition.
Microfun and Flexion are betting on the future of alternative app stores. Whether this strategy proves successful remains to be seen, but it highlights a significant shift in the mobile gaming landscape.
For those seeking high-quality puzzle games, explore our curated list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android.
