The partnership between Flexion and EA marks another significant stride in bringing EA's mobile game catalog to alternative app stores, enhancing accessibility for users not relying on Google Play or the iOS App Store. This move signals a major shift in how large publishers view the potential of distributing their games beyond the traditional giants, Apple and Google.
The landscape of mobile app distribution has been evolving rapidly, especially since Apple was compelled to allow alternative app stores in regions like the EU. Following Flexion's earlier success in bringing Candy Crush Solitaire to these platforms, their renewed collaboration with EA is set to expand the reach of EA's mobile back-catalogue even further.
What does this mean for you? Until recently, the dominant platforms for mobile game distribution were the iOS App Store and Google Play. However, recent legal battles have prompted Apple and Google to relax some anti-competitive practices, paving the way for alternative app stores to flourish. These platforms often offer enticing incentives to attract users, such as Epic Games Store's renowned free game program. While it's unlikely that the platforms hosting EA's games will match Epic's generosity, we can expect more flexible policies that have been previously rejected by Apple and Google.
Looking at the broader implications, EA's move is telling. As one of the gaming industry's behemoths, known for acquiring smaller developers, their decision to embrace alternative app stores suggests a strong trend that other companies may follow. While specific games destined for these new platforms remain undisclosed, possibilities include titles like Diablo Immortal and other Candy Crush games.
