Gossip Harbour is a massively-successful game making the leap to alternative app stores, but why?

Gossip Harbour: A Mobile Game's Unexpected Move to Alternative App Stores

You've likely seen its ads, even if you don't play it. Gossip Harbour, a merge and story puzzle game, is a surprising success story. Developer Microfun has earned over $10 million on Google Play alone. However, instead of focusing on further Google Play expansion, they've partnered with Flexion to launch the game on "alternative app stores."

What are alternative app stores? Simply put, they're any app stores besides Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even major players like the Samsung Store are dwarfed by the dominance of the two giants.

The Profit Motive and the Future of Mobile Gaming

The move to alternative app stores is driven by increased profitability. However, it also reflects a larger trend: the growing importance of these alternative marketplaces. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reassessment of their app store monopolies, creating opportunities for alternative stores. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are actively promoting their platforms through sales and promotions. Established titles, such as Candy Crush Saga, have already made the switch.

Microfun and Flexion are betting on the future growth 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 won't comment on Gossip Harbour's quality, if you're looking for excellent puzzle games, check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android!