The casual mobile game Flappy Bird, originally launched in 2013, was relaunched on September 15, 2024, as a cryptocurrency game on Telegram, sparking controversy after the original creator distanced himself from the new version.
According to a Telegram channel where the game is now available, the return of Flappy Bird is part of a collaboration with Notcoin, a web3 game based on Telegram.
Original Creator’s Disapproval
The original creator, Dong Nguyen, comments on this.
On the channel @Flappybirdbot, it reads: “Join a team, open eggs every day, and earn points for your flock. Every week, the top teams will win amazing prizes.”
Integration with The Open Network (TON)
The new launch of Flappy Bird focuses on integration with The Open Network (TON), introducing blockchain elements like token rewards through an event called “Flap-a-TON.” However, its creator, Dong Nguyen, has denied any involvement in the project and expressed his disapproval of the integration of cryptocurrencies. In a post on X, Nguyen stated that he is not related to this game.
Removal from Digital Stores
At the beginning of 2014, Nguyen decided to remove the game from digital stores. The decision was made after the game unexpectedly became a global phenomenon, with players becoming heavily addicted to its challenging mechanics.
Nguyen expressed his discomfort with the sudden fame and intense reactions from users, as he had not anticipated that the game would have such widespread and, in some cases, negative impacts on people’s lives.
Before removing the game from app stores, Nguyen published a statement saying: “I am sorry ‘Flappy Bird’ users, 22 hours from now, I will take ‘Flappy Bird’ down. I cannot take this anymore.”
Conclusion
The return of Flappy Bird as a cryptocurrency-based game has sparked controversy, with the original creator, Dong Nguyen, disassociating himself from the project and criticizing the integration of cryptocurrencies.
The controversy highlights the challenges and implications of adapting iconic games to the blockchain world, reflecting concerns about how such changes can affect both creators and users.
