Flappy Bird is returning to mobile, more than a decade after it was delisted

Sep 12, 2024 at 2:34 PM

Flappy Bird's Triumphant Return: A Nostalgic Resurgence in the Mobile Gaming Landscape

In a surprising turn of events, the iconic mobile game Flappy Bird is set to make a remarkable comeback, more than a decade after its initial release and subsequent delisting. The game, which captivated millions with its challenging gameplay and addictive nature, is poised to reclaim its place in the hearts of mobile gaming enthusiasts worldwide.

Reviving a Legendary Mobile Game

The Unexpected Rise and Fall of Flappy Bird

Flappy Bird, a seemingly simple yet deceptively challenging mobile game, first burst onto the scene in May 2013, when it was released for iOS devices. However, it wasn't until January 2014 that the game truly exploded in popularity, becoming the most downloaded app on the App Store and earning its creator, Dong Nguyen, tens of thousands of dollars in daily ad revenue. The game's meteoric rise was as unexpected as it was unprecedented, captivating players with its punishing difficulty and addictive gameplay.

The Controversial Decision to Delist the Game

Just one month after Flappy Bird's meteoric rise, Nguyen made the surprising decision to pull the game from app stores, citing the game's addictive nature and the overwhelming pressure it had placed on him. Nguyen's decision to delist the game sparked a wave of controversy and speculation, with many fans and industry observers lamenting the loss of a true mobile gaming phenomenon.

The Flappy Bird Foundation's Acquisition and Revival

Now, more than a decade after its initial release and subsequent delisting, a team of dedicated fans, calling themselves the Flappy Bird Foundation, has acquired the official Flappy Bird trademark and the rights to Piou Piou vs Cactus, a mobile game that some claim had been copied by Flappy Bird. This acquisition paves the way for the highly anticipated return of the beloved game, set to launch on both iOS and Android platforms in 2025.

Introducing New Features and Modes

The new Flappy Bird will not only bring back the classic gameplay that captivated players, but it will also introduce a host of new features and game modes. These include a basketball-themed mode where players must navigate through hoops, an "EZ mode" for newcomers, and a "rivals" mode that supports up to 100 players, allowing for a more competitive and social gaming experience.

The Passion and Dedication of the Flappy Bird Foundation

The Flappy Bird Foundation, led by chief creative Michael Roberts, is driven by a deep passion for the game and a desire to deliver a fresh and engaging experience for both new and returning players. "We are beyond excited to be bringing back Flappy Bird and delivering a fresh experience that will keep players engaged for years to come," Roberts said in a statement. "We have big plans for our little Bird."

Honoring the Legacy of Piou Piou

Alongside the revival of Flappy Bird, the Flappy Bird Foundation has also acquired the rights to Piou Piou vs Cactus, the mobile game that some claim had been copied by the original Flappy Bird. Kek, the developer of Piou Piou, is now part of the Flappy Bird Foundation and expressed his excitement about the opportunity to work on this project. "Today is a milestone not just in gaming but for me personally. It's so cool to see how influential Piou Piou has been for developers and hundreds of millions of gamers over the years," Kek said.

A Promising Future for Flappy Bird

As the mobile gaming landscape continues to evolve, the return of Flappy Bird promises to reignite the passion and nostalgia of millions of players worldwide. With the Flappy Bird Foundation's dedication to delivering a fresh and engaging experience, the game's comeback is poised to captivate a new generation of mobile gamers, while also rekindling the fond memories of those who fell under the spell of the original Flappy Bird.