Rovio is removing the original Angry Birds game from the Google Play store
According to Rovio Entertainment’s Twitter, the online game Angry Birds, accessible on iOS and Android devices as Rovio Classics: Angry Birds, will not be available on the Google Play store from February 23, 2023. As a result, users won’t be able to download or update the game from the Google Play store after that time.
The developer has yet to explain the decision to delist the game, although it is most likely a part of their plans to rethink the franchise and move it in a different path. Rovio Entertainment might be trying to simplify its selection and concentrate on fresh iterations of the game, including the changes and improvements it has in store.
Please read below for an important announcement regarding the availability of Rovio Classics: Angry Birds. pic.twitter.com/a4n4bU5gQJ
— Rovio (@Rovio) February 21, 2023
Rovio’s announcement on Twitter
After examining the business case and considering the impact on its more extensive gaming portfolio, the company explained its decision to delete the game. The game will still be playable on downloaded devices even though it is no longer available.
The business realised this choice would disappoint game enthusiasts and the crew who put a lot of effort into making it. Rovio Entertainment nevertheless believes that players of its other Angry Birds games, including Angry Birds 2, Angry Birds Friends, and Angry Birds Journey, will continue to demonstrate their love for the series.
A “business case” review rumours to have a role in Rovio Entertainment’s decision to remove the original Angry Birds app from the Google Play market and rename it on the Apple App Store as “Red’s First Flight”.
The popularity of Angry Birds
Soon after its 2009 release, the mobile game Angry Birds by Rovio Entertainment, in which players use slingshots to fling birds at pigs and other obstacles, became a huge success. Casual mobile gamers loved its endearing characters and simple yet addictive gameplay, which helped it become a phenomenon in the gaming industry. Due to the game’s popularity, several spin-offs and sequels were created, including Angry Birds Seasons, Angry Birds Rio, and Angry Birds Space.
The success of the franchise also sparked the production of a number of related media, including an animated TV series and a big-budget motion picture. The 2016 film generated over $350 million in international box office revenue and even inspired a follow-up.
When Angry Birds was first released more than ten years ago, it changed the game, and it has since grown to become a cultural phenomenon with several spin-offs, films, and merchandise. Some fans who have been playing the game since its release might be disappointed by the decision to delist the “definitive” edition.
Conclusion
Rovio Entertainment’s choice to remove the original version of Angry Birds from the Google Play store and rebrand it on the Apple App Store was made in order to concentrate on newer games and spur business growth. Fans of the traditional game may be disappointed by this announcement, but Rovio is urging players to check out its more recent Angry Birds games, which offer more in the way of gameplay and microtransactions. Additionally, the change might provide Rovio with a chance to draw in new players and grow its fan base. Prior to February 23, 2023, before the removal from the Google Play store, it is advisable for people who want to keep the original game to buy it.
Check out our previous articles to know more about games that are being shut down.