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Gossip Harbour: You might not play it, but you've almost certainly seen its ads. This seemingly unassuming merge and story-based puzzler is a sleeper hit, quietly generating over $10 million for developer Microfun on Google Play alone. But its success story takes an interesting turn.
Instead of focusing on further expansion within the Google Play ecosystem, Microfun, in partnership with Flexion, is venturing into "alternative app stores." This strategic move raises the question: what exactly *are* alternative app stores?
Simply put, alternative app stores are any app marketplaces besides Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even seemingly significant platforms like the Samsung Galaxy Store are dwarfed in comparison to these two giants.
Why the Shift to Alternative App Stores?
The answer is multifaceted: increased profitability and the burgeoning potential of the alternative app store market. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of the mobile app landscape, creating opportunities for alternative stores to thrive. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are actively promoting these alternatives through sales and promotions, and established titles such as Candy Crush Saga have already made the leap.
Microfun and Flexion are clearly betting on the future of alternative app stores, anticipating significant growth in this sector. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but it's a fascinating development in the mobile gaming world.
Looking for more puzzle games? Check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android!
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