The viral mobile game Flappy Bird, which captivated millions in 2013, is back after a decade. The game has now launched on Telegram with new Web3 elements and blockchain technology support.
Flappy Bird Returns with a Blockchain Twist
This re-release, titled "Flap-a-TON," was launched on September 16, 2024. It is part of an effort to blend nostalgia for the original Flappy Bird with modern blockchain technology. Unlike many Web3 games, this version does not require a cryptocurrency wallet, making it accessible to blockchain enthusiasts and casual gamers alike. Players can participate in a free mint event for the new FLAPPY token, while the game remains simple and enjoyable.
New Features and Expansions
Though the gameplay remains true to its roots, there are some new features on the horizon. In 2025, Flappy Bird will expand beyond Telegram to other platforms like HTML5, web browsers, iOS, and Android. These new versions will introduce customizable characters, new game modes, and a progression system. According to creative director Michael Roberts, "Flappy Bird’s return on Telegram is just the beginning. By embracing Web3 and the TON ecosystem, we’re ensuring that the game’s future is community-driven, secure, and accessible to all."
Challenges and Controversies
However, this revival isn’t without its controversies. Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, has publicly distanced himself from the new version. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Nguyen expressed his displeasure with the incorporation of cryptocurrency into the game, stating: "I did not sell anything. I also don’t support crypto." This statement has led to backlash from some fans, who accused the new Flappy Bird of being a scam. Additionally, there are concerns about the legal ownership of the game, as the Flappy Bird trademark was acquired by Gametech Holdings LLC, and then transferred to the Flappy Bird Foundation Group.
Whether this blend of casual gaming and blockchain technology will succeed remains to be seen. As Michael Roberts noted, "This is just the beginning."
Comments