King's Candy Crush Solitaire: A Multi-Platform Launch and a Shift Towards Alternative App Stores

King is taking a significant step with the upcoming release of Candy Crush Solitaire, its first simultaneous launch across multiple app stores. This strategic move, facilitated by a partnership with Flexion, marks a notable shift towards alternative app stores beyond Google Play and the iOS App Store.

The game will debut on five alternative app stores, including the Samsung Galaxy Store and Huawei AppGallery. This simultaneous release highlights King's recognition of the growing potential of these platforms, previously often considered secondary distribution channels. The company's decision suggests a broader industry trend of major gaming developers increasingly acknowledging the reach and viability of alternative app stores.

The Significance of Simultaneous Launch

King's immense popularity and profitability, often exceeding that of smaller nations, makes their delayed exploration of alternative app stores somewhat surprising. However, the simultaneous launch of Candy Crush Solitaire signifies a strategic shift. By releasing the game across multiple platforms concurrently, King demonstrates its belief in the potential of these stores to expand its player base significantly. This action strongly suggests that major players in the gaming industry are finally recognizing the substantial market opportunity presented by alternative app stores.

For those interested in learning more about alternative app stores, exploring the Huawei AppGallery Awards for 2024 offers insight into the success and recognition achieved by top-performing apps on that platform.