Gossip Harbour: Why the Hit Game is Moving to Alternative App Stores

• Gossip Harbour is a game you may not play, but most definitely will have seen
• It's one of those sleeper hits your Mum likely plays, and it's certainly raked in the cash
• So why is it going to alternative app stores? And what exactly ARE they? Well, it's complicated

If you've spent enough time on YouTube or are a die-hard mobile gaming enthusiast, you've probably encountered those less-than-stellar ads. Among them, you might have seen one for Gossip Harbour, a captivating merge and story-based puzzle game. This game has proven to be a financial success, generating over $10 million for its developer, Microfun, solely through Google Play.

However, the real intrigue lies in Microfun's strategic move to partner with Flexion, not to further promote Gossip Harbour on Google Play, but to distribute it through "alternative app stores."

So, what exactly are alternative app stores? In simple terms, they are any app distribution platforms outside of Google Play and the iOS App Store. Even significant platforms like the Samsung Store, pre-installed on many devices, don't hold a candle to the dominance of Google and Apple's stores.

Why alternative?The decision to go with alternative app stores is primarily driven by profitability. Additionally, these platforms are poised to become a more significant part of the mobile gaming landscape. Recent legal pressures on Google and Apple have encouraged the destigmatization of alternative app stores, which platforms like Huawei AppGallery are capitalizing on with promotions and sales. High-profile games like Candy Crush Saga have already made the transition, signaling a growing trend.

Flexion and Microfun are betting on this shift as the next big move in mobile gaming. Whether it will attract a broad audience remains to be seen.

And while we're not here to judge the quality of Gossip Harbour, if you're in the market for some top-notch puzzle games, check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android for some excellent recommendations!