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

You've likely seen the ads, even if you don't play it. Gossip Harbour, a merge and story-based puzzle game, is a quiet success story, generating over $10 million for developer Microfun on Google Play alone. But its recent partnership with publisher Flexion isn't about expanding its presence on established platforms. Instead, Gossip Harbour is venturing into the world of "alternative app stores."

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

The Allure of Alternatives

So why the shift? Profitability is a key driver. Alternative app stores are increasingly attractive, and this trend is expected to accelerate. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reevaluation of the mobile app ecosystem, creating opportunities for alternative stores. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are capitalizing on this by offering attractive sales and promotions. Established titles like Candy Crush Saga have already made the leap.

Microfun and Flexion are betting on the growing significance 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 don't comment on game quality, if you're looking for excellent puzzle games, check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android!