The iconic mobile game Flappy Bird is once again diving into the world of Web3, marking its return to the blockchain space after a brief hiatus. According to a recent blog post by the Flappy Bird Foundation, the entity behind the game’s revival, Flappy Bird will “take flight in Web3” with new initiatives aimed at blending traditional gaming with decentralized technologies.
This move comes despite earlier uncertainties surrounding its crypto ambitions, signaling a renewed commitment to innovation in the blockchain gaming ecosystem.
Flappy Bird’s Journey Through Web3
In 2024, Flappy Bird made headlines when it relaunched on Telegram as part of a play-to-earn mining campaign tied to the FLAP token on The Open Network (TON). However, the project faced setbacks earlier this year when the Telegram phase ended without a token airdrop, leaving many fans questioning the future of its Web3 plans.
Adding to the confusion, the game’s April relaunch on Android via the Epic Games Store came entirely devoid of any blockchain or crypto features. The Flappy Bird Foundation explicitly stated that the Android version would remain a traditional Web2 game, supported solely by ads and in-app purchases.
If you prefer not to engage with Web3 features, Flappy Bird Publishing, the foundation’s licensee and Web2 gaming publisher, will always provide you with traditional Web2 games and experiences. Despite these developments, the Foundation has now confirmed that Flappy Bird’s Web3 ambitions are far from over.
What’s Next for Flappy Bird in Web3?
The Flappy Bird Foundation announced its intention to explore and innovate within the Web3 space, aiming to create an ecosystem that combines the best of traditional gaming, intellectual property (IP) licensing, and blockchain technology.
“Our ultimate vision is to build an ecosystem housing the best parts of the traditional gaming space, IP licensing, and all the benefits of Web3 to create a global Flappy Bird brand for the community of fans and players.”
While the announcement hints at a new Web3 version of the game featuring competitive gameplay and reward mechanisms, no specific mention of a token was made. Instead, the Foundation emphasized the launch of an IP protocol to bring Flappy Bird assets on-chain, though details about the blockchain or specific assets remain undisclosed.
Potential Collaborations and Speculation
Following the announcement, the official X account of Base, Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer-2 network, responded with enthusiasm, sharing a screenshot of the roadmap section discussing the “Web3 IP protocol.” The post, complete with emoji eyes, sparked speculation among fans about potential collaborations between Flappy Bird and Base.
The Flappy Bird team further fueled curiosity by sharing the X post with its Telegram community, signaling either a strategic partnership or simply generating buzz around its Web3 initiatives.
Balancing Web2 and Web3 Audiences
One of the key takeaways from the Foundation’s announcement is its commitment to catering to both Web2 and Web3 audiences. While the game will explore blockchain integration and reward systems for Web3 enthusiasts, it will continue offering traditional gaming experiences for players who prefer to stay away from crypto components.
This dual approach reflects the broader challenges faced by legacy brands venturing into blockchain gaming. When Flappy Bird first returned to the spotlight last year, its creator, Dong Nguyen, broke a seven-year social media hiatus to criticize its crypto launch.
Similarly, some critics expressed concerns about the game’s connection to blockchain technology, prompting the Foundation to clarify its stance. By providing options for both types of players, the Flappy Bird Foundation aims to honor its fanbase while embracing the opportunities presented by Web3.
The Road Ahead
Although the Foundation has outlined an ambitious vision for Flappy Bird’s Web3 future, a concrete timeline for these initiatives remains unclear. The lack of specifics about the blockchain platform, tokenomics, or asset on-chain plans leaves much to the imagination.
What is clear, however, is that Flappy Bird’s return to Web3 represents a significant step for blockchain gaming. By combining competitive gameplay, rewards, and IP licensing, the Foundation hopes to create a sustainable ecosystem that appeals to both traditional gamers and crypto enthusiasts.
For fans eagerly awaiting updates, the Foundation’s latest announcement serves as a reminder that Flappy Bird’s journey is far from over. Whether through nostalgic gameplay or innovative blockchain features, the game continues to evolve, proving that even after a decade, its appeal remains strong.
