Gossip Harbour: A Mobile Game's Unexpected Move to Alternative App Stores
You've likely encountered ads for Gossip Harbour, a surprisingly successful merge-and-story puzzle game. This sleeper hit, popular with a broad audience, has generated over $10 million for developer Microfun on Google Play alone. However, its continued success isn't relying on traditional app stores. Instead, Microfun, in partnership with Flexion, is venturing into the world of "alternative app stores."
What are alternative app stores? Simply put, they are any app marketplaces besides Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even prominent options like the Samsung Galaxy Store are dwarfed in comparison.
The Strategic Shift: Why Alternative App Stores?
The move to alternative app stores offers significant financial advantages for Gossip Harbour. Furthermore, this strategy aligns with the growing importance of these alternative platforms in the mobile gaming landscape. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of alternative app stores, leading to increased promotion and usage. Major titles, such as Candy Crush Saga, have already embraced this shift, highlighting the potential for significant growth.
Microfun and Flexion are betting on the future of alternative app stores. While the long-term success remains uncertain, this move demonstrates a bold strategy in a rapidly evolving market.
For those seeking engaging puzzle games, explore our curated list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android.
