The new version of the mobile game Flappy Bird brings crypto integration to its gameplay, but the development team has made it clear: non-fungible tokens (NFTs) will not be a part of the experience.
The Flappy Bird Foundation, the organization behind the reboot, also clarified in a statement on X that players won't be required to link a crypto wallet to enjoy the game.
They confirmed that the Web3 elements would be available to players who access the game via Telegram, though using the crypto features is optional.
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Revenue for the new Flappy Bird will primarily be generated through in-app purchases, allowing players to buy items such as extra energy. Additionally, optional advertisements will offer bonuses, like score boosts, to those who choose to watch them, though it won't be mandatory to progress in the game.
Hints about crypto involvement surfaced before the game launched on September 16, when researcher Varun Biniwale found hidden web pages mentioning a possible play-to-earn model and a FLAP token. While these details have yet to be fully elaborated on, the team has mentioned a future FLAP airdrop.
The web pages also suggested that the game might operate on the Solana blockchain, but the Flappy Bird Foundation later confirmed that any blockchain features would be linked to Telegram's network, The Open Network (TON).
Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, removed the game in 2014 due to concerns over its addictive nature. He has publicly distanced himself from this new project and stated that he did not support cryptocurrency.
The Flappy Bird Foundation acquired the rights to the game after it was seized in court by Gametech Holdings LLC due to Nguyen's inactivity.
Overall, in the wake of the controversy surrounding its original release, Flappy Bird now returns to mobile gaming, this time offering crypto as an optional feature.