You've likely seen ads for Gossip Harbour, even if you don't play it. This merge-and-story puzzle game is a surprising hit, generating over $10 million for developer Microfun on Google Play alone. However, its success story takes an unexpected turn. Instead of focusing on further Google Play promotion, Microfun, in partnership with Flexion, is venturing into "alternative app stores."
But what are alternative app stores? Simply put, they're any app store besides Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even established stores like the Samsung Store are dwarfed by these two giants.
The Appeal of Alternative App Stores
The move to alternative app stores is driven by profitability. However, it's also a strategic play, anticipating the growing significance of these alternative platforms in the mobile gaming market.
Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of alternative app stores. This shift is creating opportunities for alternative stores like Huawei AppGallery to gain traction through promotions and sales. Major titles like Candy Crush Saga have already embraced this trend.
Microfun and Flexion are betting on the future of alternative app stores. Whether this strategy proves successful remains to be seen.
While we won't comment on Gossip Harbour's quality, if you're a puzzle game enthusiast, check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android!
