The popular mobile game Flappy Bird has made its return, nearly a decade after its original creator, Dong Nguyen, removed it from app stores. Originally pulled due to its "addictive nature", the game is now live again, this time as a mini-game on the Telegram platform. The relaunch has been facilitated by Notcoin, which acquired the intellectual property (IP) rights through the Flappy Bird Foundation Group.

The game’s return has been marked by the launch of the Flap-a-TON event, which highlights its integration with Telegram’s blockchain, TON (The Open Network). This event brings a new crypto aspect to Flappy Bird, allowing players to interact with the game and participate in a minting event for the FLAPPY token. However, no cryptocurrency wallet is required to play.

Flap-a-TON Event 

The Flap-a-TON event, exclusive to Telegram users, demonstrates how Flappy Bird is evolving within the web3 space. While players can enjoy the game without needing a wallet or holding cryptocurrency, in-game activities during the event will allow players to mint the FLAPPY token for free.

This further emphasizes Telegram’s growing status as a platform for blockchain-based gaming and decentralized applications (dApps). Michael Roberts, one of the key figures behind the new Flappy Bird launch, expressed optimism about the game's future in web3. He noted in an interview with blockchaingamer.biz “Launching on Telegram is the perfect runway for the return of the game, with the platform now recognized as the premier destination for web3 gaming.”

Michael added that with Telegram’s existing community of over 200 million gamers, Flappy Bird’s foray into web3 is poised for success. Sasha Plotvinov, founder of Notcoin, also commented on the significance of this partnership with Telegram and TON. He noted that IPs like Flappy Bird are crucial to expanding web3 adoption by making it more accessible and recognizable for users.

Flappy Bird Returns with Web3 Features

Rights Acquisition and Future Plans

In addition to the IP rights to Flappy Bird, the Flappy Bird Foundation Group also acquired the rights to the lesser-known Piou Piou vs. Cactus game, which served as the inspiration for Flappy Bird. The creator of Piou Piou vs. Cactus, known as Kek, has been involved in developing the Telegram version of Flappy Bird.

However, the original creator of Flappy Bird, Dong Nguyen, has distanced himself from the new version, stating that he is not involved in the project and does not support the incorporation of cryptocurrency into the game. This raises some questions about the direction of the game’s legacy, though it does not seem to affect its current momentum.

While Flappy Bird has been re-released exclusively on Telegram for now, plans are underway to expand its availability. In 2025, the game is expected to launch on mobile app stores and browsers, featuring additional game modes, cosmetic items, and progression systems. These updates are aimed at enhancing the player experience while staying true to the original simplicity that made the game a viral sensation.

Flappy Bird Gameplay Screenshot

Telegram as a Platform for Web3 Gaming

The relaunch of Flappy Bird on Telegram is a notable step in the platform’s development as a hub for web3 gaming. With its integration of the TON blockchain, Telegram is positioning itself as a premier destination for decentralized applications and blockchain-based games. The platform’s extensive user base and established infrastructure make it an appealing option for developers and gamers alike.

The success of Flappy Bird on Telegram could pave the way for other well-known games and IPs to make similar transitions into web3, leveraging the blockchain for rewards and in-game assets while providing new experiences for players.

Source: blockchaingamer.biz