Flexion and EA to partner up and bring the publisher\'s hit mobile catalogue to alternative app stores

Flexion and EA have teamed up again to bring EA's mobile game catalog to alternative app stores. This means increased accessibility for users who don't utilize Google Play or the iOS App Store, and signifies a significant shift in how major publishers view the potential beyond Apple and Google's platforms.

Alternative app stores have seen a surge in popularity this year. Following Apple's mandated opening to these stores in regions like the EU, they've become a major topic of discussion. Flexion, having previously brought Candy Crush Solitaire to alternative app stores, is now partnering with EA to expand their mobile game offerings to these alternative platforms.

You might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" Until recently, the primary avenues for mobile game publishing were the iOS App Store and Google Play. However, legal challenges compelling Apple and Google to abandon certain anti-competitive practices have paved the way for alternative app stores to flourish. A key benefit for players? Many of these platforms offer substantial incentives to attract users.

The Epic Games Store, with its free game program, serves as a prime example. While Flexion's partners might not offer the same scale of giveaways, it's likely they'll provide greater policy flexibility than Apple and Google have historically allowed.

The long-term implications are significant. EA, a gaming giant known for its acquisitions of smaller developers, is signaling a change in the industry wind. Their embrace of alternative app stores suggests a smoother path for other developers and publishers.

While the specific EA games launching on these alternative app stores remain unannounced, titles like Diablo Immortal and other Candy Crush games are possibilities.