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 generated over $10 million on Google Play alone. However, instead of focusing on further Google Play promotion, Microfun, in partnership with Flexion, is making a strategic move to alternative app stores.
But what are alternative app stores? Simply put, they're any app stores outside of Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even seemingly significant stores like the Samsung Galaxy Store are dwarfed in comparison.
The Profit Motive and the Future of Mobile App Distribution
The reason behind Gossip Harbour's shift is simple: profitability. Alternative app stores are projected to gain significant market share. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of the mobile app ecosystem, lessening the stigma around alternative stores. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are capitalizing on this, offering attractive promotions. Established titles like Candy Crush Saga have already made the transition.
Microfun and Flexion are betting on the burgeoning potential of alternative app stores. Whether this strategy proves successful remains to be seen, but it highlights a significant shift in the mobile gaming landscape.
While we don't comment on game quality directly, if you're seeking high-quality puzzle games, explore our curated list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android.
