The mobile gaming sensation “Flappy Bird” is poised for a return in 2024. The revamped version promises new content and game modes, exciting fans of the original cult classic.
Original game’s meteoric rise and fall
“Flappy Bird,” created by Vietnamese developer Dong Nguyen in 2013, experienced unexpected success in early 2014. The game was downloaded over 50 million times and reportedly generated five-figure daily advertising revenue. Despite its popularity, Nguyen surprisingly removed the game from app stores in 2014, citing concerns about its addictive nature.
New foundation plans extensive updates
The newly established Flappy Bird Foundation has acquired the rights to the popular mobile game and announced a relaunch for autumn 2024 on X (formerly Twitter). The game will initially be released for web browsers, with iOS and Android versions following in 2025.
The relaunch promises more than just a simple re-release of the original. According to the foundation’s announcement video, new game modes are planned, including an adventure mode and “massive multiplayer challenges.” Additionally, new characters will be introduced to enhance the gaming experience.
Ownership changes and future plans
The Flappy Bird Foundation emphasizes that original developer Dong Nguyen is not involved in this project. The trademark rights were acquired by a US company called Gametech Holdings after Nguyen’s trademark application was apparently challenged. While Nguyen has not commented, Michael Roberts of the Flappy Bird Foundation expressed optimism: “We have big plans for our little bird.”
In addition to the rights to “Flappy Bird,” the foundation now owns the rights to the lesser-known game “Piou Piou vs Cactus.” This game allegedly served as inspiration for “Flappy Bird,” although Nguyen had denied this. Kek, the developer of “Piou Piou vs Cactus,” is one of the founding members of the foundation. He looks forward to shaping the comeback together with fans and developers.