The partnership between Flexion and EA marks another significant step in bringing EA's mobile game catalog to alternative app stores, enhancing accessibility for users beyond the traditional Google Play and iOS App Store platforms. This move reflects a broader shift in the industry, as major publishers increasingly recognize the potential of alternative distribution channels.
The rise of alternative app stores has been a hot topic, especially since regulatory changes in regions like the EU have compelled companies like Apple to open up to these platforms. Flexion, known for previously bringing Candy Crush Solitaire to alternative stores, is now expanding this initiative with EA's extensive mobile back-catalogue.
What does this mean for you, the gamer? Until recently, the mobile gaming market was dominated by the iOS App Store and Google Play. However, recent legal battles have pushed Apple and Google to relax some of their anti-competitive practices, paving the way for alternative app stores. These new platforms often come with attractive incentives to draw in users.
Take the Epic Games Store, for instance, which offers a free game program. While the platforms Flexion is working with may not go to such lengths, they are likely to offer more flexible policies than those traditionally seen with Apple and Google.
Looking ahead, EA's involvement is a telling sign. As one of the gaming industry's giants, known for acquiring smaller developers, EA's move towards alternative app stores suggests a strong trend that other companies are likely to follow. While specific games haven't been announced yet, titles like Diablo Immortal and other Candy Crush games could be on the horizon.