A decade after its surprise removal from app stores, the beloved mobile game Flappy Bird is making a comeback. Fans of the simple yet addictive game are buzzing with excitement as the game is set to return by the end of October 2024, with a new twist.

The revival is spearheaded by the Flappy Bird Foundation, a fan group that acquired the rights to the game and its iconic character. The expanded version will be available on the web initially, with mobile platform releases expected in 2025, according to an IGN report.

Nostalgia Meets Controversy: Crypto Ties Spark Debate

However, not all reactions have been positive. While many are excited about the return of the game, the new ownership has sparked concerns due to its alleged ties to cryptocurrency. On social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), some users have voiced disappointment over what they see as an attempt to capitalize on fans’ nostalgia to promote NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens).

A Community Note on X highlighted these concerns, stating that the new Flappy Bird version may introduce NFTs, which some feel could exploit fans who loved the game for its simplicity.

From Overwhelming Success to Sudden Shutdown

Flappy Bird was originally created by Vietnamese developer Dong Nguyen in 2013 and quickly became a global sensation. Its simple gameplay—tapping the screen to make a bird fly through pipes—captured the attention of millions. However, the overwhelming success and pressure led Nguyen to remove the game from both the App Store and Google Play in 2014, despite its massive popularity.

Since then, Nguyen has stayed out of the spotlight, and fans speculate that the new ownership group waited for the game’s trademark to expire before acquiring the rights.

What Fans Can Expect

The upcoming version of Flappy Bird promises to retain much of the original gameplay, while adding expanded features and updated visuals. The teaser trailer even includes a cameo from ABS-CBN’s former evening newscast Bandila, hinting at the game’s influence in Filipino pop culture.

As the launch date approaches, it remains to be seen how the introduction of crypto elements will impact the game’s reception. Will fans embrace the new changes, or will the crypto controversy overshadow Flappy Bird’s long-awaited return?