Mobile video game phenomenon Flappy Bird is set to return 10 years after its creator pulled it offline.
In 2014, Vietnam-based developer Dong Nguyen shocked the gaming world when he pulled viral hit Flappy Bird from the App Store and the Google Play Store at a time when it was making tens of thousands of dollars a day. He went on to say: "I can call Flappy Bird a success of mine. But it also ruins my simple life. So now I hate it."
Now, Flappy Bird is set to return, with an expanded version aiming for launch by the end of October across multiple platforms including web browsers, and an iOS and Android version planned for release in 2025. But this new Flappy Bird isn’t from Nguyen, it’s from ‘The Flappy Bird Foundation,’ which is described as “a new team of passionate fans committed to sharing the game with the world.”
The Flappy Bird Foundation said it has acquired the official Flappy Bird trademark from Gametech Holdings LLC, a U.S. company that appears to have previously held the trademark, as well as the rights for the original game and character from Piou Piou vs. Cactus, the mobile game that supposedly originally inspired the Flappy Bird character.
The Flappy Bird Foundation is already talking about future Flappy Bird releases, which will debut new game modes, characters, progression, and massive multiplayer challenges.
Michael Roberts, the “chief creative” behind Flappy Bird’s return, said: “We are beyond excited to be bringing back Flappy Bird and delivering a fresh experience that will keep players engaged for years to come. We have big plans for our little Bird!”
Kek, the developer of Piou Piou, is also involved, and commented: “Today is a milestone not just in gaming but for me personally. It’s so cool to see how influential Piou Piou has been for developers and hundreds of millions of gamers over the years. It’s incredible to work alongside such a dedicated team of fans and creators who are truly passionate about changing the industry narrative and together bringing the original Flappy Bird back to life.”
There is no mention of Dong Nguyen in The Flappy Bird Foundation’s note to press. Nguyen, who has largely avoided the limelight since pulling Flappy Bird offline, hasn't tweeted in years.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
