Flappy Bird, the mobile game that took the world by storm in 2014, is making a comeback after a decade-long absence. Originally created by Dong Nguyen, the game was notorious for its simple yet frustrating gameplay. Players guided a small bird through a series of pipes, and its sudden removal from app stores only added to its mystique. Now, as it prepares to return under the banner of the "Flappy Bird Foundation," there’s a mix of excitement and skepticism surrounding this revival.

The new version promises to bring back the iconic gameplay while introducing features like multiplayer modes and expanded levels. The Flappy Bird Foundation claims to be a group of passionate fans who want to honor Nguyen’s original vision. It is important to note that the Flappy Bird Foundation is not a charitable organization.

However, Nguyen’s absence raises questions about whether this new iteration can capture the spirit of the original game. His decision to pull Flappy Bird from app stores was rooted in a desire to step away from the overwhelming pressure and addiction that the game created for many players. Nguyen's had an infamous tweet in Feb 2014 announcing his intent about taking the game down.

The Crypto Controversy

One of the most significant changes in this revival is the integration of blockchain technology and NFTs. Literally nobody asked for that, and the fans rightfully view it as an unnecessary complication that detracts from what made Flappy Bird appealing in the first place. The original game thrived on its simplicity and accessibility.

The Flappy Bird Foundation's plans for cryptocurrency integration remain murky. Though NFTs aren't part of the picture, crypto elements haven't been entirely dismissed. Digging into the foundation's website uncovered hidden pages hinting at a possible "$FLAP" token and a "flap-to-earn" system. While details are scarce, it seems the blockchain aspect will involve The Open Network ($TON), Telegram's blockchain, rather than Solana ($SOL) as previously speculated. The exact nature of these crypto features and how they'll fit into the game is still very uncertain.

Nguyen not on board

Flappy Bird's original developer, Dong Nguyen, has made it clear he's not involved with the game's latest incarnation. The game's rights changed hands earlier this year when Gametech Holdings LLC took over after the US Patent and Trademark Office decided Nguyen had let the trademark lapse. This paved the way for Gametech to bring Flappy Bird back, though not everyone's happy with how they've done it.

When is the new Flappy Birds game launching?

The new Flappy Birds game will launch on web browsers by the end of October 2024, and the iOS and Android apps are scheduled for 2025.