While Angry Birds is not widely known for its appeal as a home console game, 1 million copies shipped put it in striking distance of many a AAA effort. To put this in perspective, Homefront sold around 2 million across the same platforms excluding the upcoming Wii U game. And to be fair, console Angry Birds only cost half as much, at £30 for the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions.
Angry Birds 3DS comes in slightly cheaper at £24, but still a massive premium over the 69p mobile game. “It was certainly satisfying to see Angry Birds gameplay adapt so well to other platforms in 2012,” according to Rovio’s Petri Järvilehto. “The features specific to the Wii U are very intriguing to us, so we’re excited to release this version to fans.”
The Evolution of Angry Birds
Angry Birds initially launched as a mobile game in December 2009 and quickly became a global phenomenon. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, where players use a slingshot to launch birds at structures to defeat pigs, captivated millions. The game’s success led to numerous updates, spin-offs, and even a feature film. However, the transition from mobile to console was a significant leap for Rovio, the game’s developer.
The console versions of Angry Birds, including the Xbox 360, PS3, and 3DS, offered enhanced graphics and additional content that wasn’t available in the mobile versions. These versions included the original Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons, and Angry Birds Rio, providing a comprehensive package for fans. Despite the higher price point, the console versions managed to attract a substantial audience, demonstrating the game’s broad appeal.
Why Console Versions Matter
The success of Angry Birds on consoles highlights the importance of platform diversity in the gaming industry. While mobile games are incredibly popular due to their accessibility and low cost, console games offer a different experience that can attract a different segment of the market. Console versions often come with improved graphics, additional content, and unique features that enhance the gameplay experience.
For example, the Wii U version of Angry Birds took advantage of the console’s unique features, such as the GamePad, to offer new ways to interact with the game. This version allowed players to use the touch screen to control the slingshot, providing a more immersive experience. Such innovations can make a significant difference in how a game is received on different platforms.
Moreover, the success of Angry Birds on consoles also underscores the potential for mobile games to expand beyond their initial platform. This expansion can lead to increased revenue and a broader fan base. It also shows that a well-designed game can succeed regardless of the platform, provided it offers engaging content and a compelling experience.
The journey of Angry Birds from a mobile game to a successful console title is a testament to the game’s universal appeal and the strategic decisions made by Rovio. By adapting the game to different platforms and enhancing the gameplay experience, Rovio managed to capture the interest of a diverse audience. The success of Angry Birds on consoles serves as an example for other mobile game developers looking to expand their reach and tap into new markets.
Source Eurogamer
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