Gossip Harbour is a massively-successful game making the leap to alternative app stores, but why?

You've likely seen ads for Gossip Harbour, even if you don't play it. This merge-and-story puzzle game, developed by Microfun, is a surprising hit, generating over $10 million on Google Play alone. However, instead of focusing on further Google Play promotion, Microfun has partnered with Flexion to launch the game on "alternative app stores."

What are alternative app stores? Simply put, they're any app store besides the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Even major stores like the Samsung Store are dwarfed by the market dominance of Google and Apple.

The Alternative App Store Advantage

The move to alternative app stores is driven by increased profitability. Furthermore, alternative app stores are poised for significant growth. Recent legal challenges against Google and Apple are forcing a reassessment of their market dominance, leading to increased pressure to allow and promote alternative app stores. Companies like Huawei, with its AppGallery, are capitalizing on this trend through sales and promotions. Established games like Candy Crush Saga have already made the switch.

Microfun and Flexion are betting on the future of alternative app stores. Whether this strategy pays off remains to be seen, but it highlights a shift in the mobile gaming landscape.

Looking for more puzzle games? Check out our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android!