PocketGamer.biz is regularly rounding up the most interesting games that are currently in soft launch.
An important part of the games-as-a-service approach, the soft launch process enables developers to fine-tune their game, particularly in relation to meta-game mechanics such as time gates, in-game resources and psychological components.
Behind the scenes
Of course, some games require more time in soft launch than others; something that can reveal a game experiencing more serious issues than mere fine-tuning.
But, along with that, the main point of the feature is to get you excited about the games you'll soon be able to play...
Developer: ZeptoLab Where: North America Platforms: Android Live since: March 19th, 2021 Updates: N/A
ZeptoLab mascot Om Nom returns in a puzzle title under the name of Om Nom A-mazing Candy.
Players must feed Om Nom candies while avoiding spiders to clear the level. The description also points to unlockable characters and the ability to play with friends online. Levels will increasingly become more challenging.
Early reviews for those who have gained access to the testing period have given the game a 2.39-star rating out of five from 18 reviews.
Diablo Immortal
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment Where: Australia Platforms: Android Live since: April 20th, 2021 Updates: N/A
The free-to-play title based on the popular action RPG series looks to be set between the events of Diablo II: Lord of Destruction and Diablo III. After a frosty introduction at Blizzcon 2018, the studio has been quietly at work on the game with a release expected sometime in 2021.
"Explore the nightmarish realm of Sanctuary like never before, now a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) where angels and demons wage an endless war over dominion of the mortal realm," reads the game description.
"Join forces with countless other players on an epic quest to collect the shattered fragments of the corrupted Worldstone and prevent the Lord of Terror’s return."
Apex Legends Mobile
Developer: Respawn Where: India and the Philippines Platforms: Android Live since: April 20th, 2021 Updates: (2) May 10th, 2021
Respawn has confirmed that Apex Legends Mobile will enter a regional beta test on Android devices.
Only a few thousand people will be granted entry to the early testing before eventually expanding to iOS and other regions at a later date. The mobile version of the highly popular battle royale has specifically been designed for touchscreens, adding in streamlined controls and optimisations.
"We've built a dedicated team here at Respawn filled with experts in mobile game development to lead the creation of Apex Legends Mobile, but it's a collaborative effort with our established Apex Legends team and other partners," said Apex Legends game director Chad Grenier.
The studio handling development will be a new team based in Vancouver, Canada.
Mighty Doom
Developer: Alpha Dog Games (Bethesda) Where: New Zealand Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: April 7th, 2021 Updates: (2) April 26th, 2021
Alpha Dog Games has launched an early access program for what looks to be a new Doom experience designed for mobile devices.
Mighty Doom is a run and gunner that has the Mini Slayer fighting waves of demons through miniaturised versions of iconic Doom locations. It also looks to utilise a loot system to level up, upgrade and craft gear, as well as the ability to unlock fan-favourite weapons like the Plasma Rifle and Rocket Launcher.
The free-to-play game is only available on Google Play with access currently full, though it does note that spaces may open up at a later time.
Bethesda was unable to comment when reached out to.
Alpha Dog Games has confirmed to PocketGamer.biz that Mighty Doom has now begun early testing in New Zealand on iOS and Android devices.
The first update adjusted the difficulty balancing and diversity of room layouts throughout chapters, improved texture compression to reduce app size and improve performance, rebalanced volume levels for music as well as various bug fixes.
Supernatural City
Developer: Rovio Where: US, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Poland, Denmark, Spain, Lithuania and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: April 8th, 2021 Updates: (1) April 26th, 2021
Rovio has soft-launched Supernatural City, a new narrative-driven match-three puzzler.
Taking inspiration from Small Town Murders, Supernatural City will see players "discover the grand and bustling city of New Gateway", alongside Ellie Delmar as she searches for her missing father and learns to control her new powers to speak with ghosts. By exploring the city, discovering hidden clues and meeting with a cast of allies, Ellie will begin to piece together the mystery.
"Explore the big city, make matches and uncover hidden supernatural secrets. The truth is hard to believe, but even harder to ignore," reads the app description.
Clash Quest
Developer: Supercell Where: Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: April 6th, 2021 Updates: (2) May 3rd, 2021
Supercell has soft-launched the first of three Clash of Clans spinoff titles currently in development at the studio, Clash Quest.
The turn-based, tactical adventure strategy game is based around each battle being divided into a few stages, starting with a set amount of Troops in the player's army. If a player runs out of Troops, they ultimately lose the match. Both bosses and items will be new additions to the Clash universe. The game also looks to utilise an energy meter.
One way to get stronger is to earn more units. This can be done by exploring the Archipelago and obtaining "army increases" from rewards gained in battle or around the map. One tactic is to deploy individual Troops, but the better option is to form larger combinations of the same Troop to help win the battle.
"The Clash Quest team is a small team in Helsinki and we hope to provide a fresh take on the Clash world," said Supercell game designer Touko Tahkokallio.
Pikmin App
Developer: Niantic and Nintendo Where: Singapore Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: March 30th, 2021 Updates: (1) April 26th, 2021
Niantic has soft-launched its upcoming Pikmin AR mobile game in Singapore.
Designed around the "theme of making walking fun", the new experience utilises Google Fit to keep track of the player's step count, Players will be given an item bag with Pikmin Seedlings that grow by absorbing Step Energy through walking. Pikmin can then be plucked once a certain amount of energy has been achieved.
Different types of Pikmin will be available, including: Red Pikmin, Blue Pikmin, Yellow Pikmin, Purple Pikmin, White Pikmin Winged Pikmin and Rock Pikmin. Decor Pikmin, a new type of species was also discovered in-game. These creatures will wear clothing that is most associated with the area they are found.
The new 'Pikmin App' (as its tentative being named) will launch sometime in 2021.
Tom and Jerry: Chase
Developer: NetEase Where: Japan and South Korea Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: March 1st, 2021 Updates: (5) April 29th, 2021
After previously launching Tom and Jerry: Chase in a number of countries, NetEase has now soft-launched the title in Japan and South Korea.
Tom and Jerry: Chase is a one versus four casual mobile experience that recreates the art style of the original classic TV show. The gameplay revolves around four people controlling Jerry and his friends while the singular controls Tom and tries to catch the mice.
Already a huge success in China, Tom and Jerry: Chase has surpassed more than 100 million users in its first year of release. It is also available in the following regions: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
Tomb Raider Reloaded
Developer: Emerald City Games (Square Enix) Where: Australia, Thailand and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: December 2020 Updates: (2) May 7th, 2021
Emerald City Games has soft-launched Tomb Raider Reloaded, a new free-to-play action-arcade adventure that will see the return of Lara Croft's signature dual pistols.
Published by Square Enix, players will blast their way through tomb after tomb collecting relics, unlocking skills and facing supernatural enemies. The game looks to take inspiration from the original Tomb Raider titles with makers of the 2013 reboot, Crystal Dynamics, contributing to the project also.
Tomb Raider Reloaded is scheduled to launch sometime in 2021 to coincide with the character's 25th anniversary.
The first update made it so Lara flies to the new location of St. Francis’ Folly in Greece where she can discover a new Relic piece: The Owl Head. New challenges that provide extra rewards on a daily and weekly basis were added too, alongside a ton of bug fixes and optimisations.
Nickelodeon Kart Racers
Developer: Kung Fu Factory (Netmarble) Where: Malaysia Platforms: iOS Live since: March 8th, 2021 Updates: N/A
Netmarble subsidiary Kung Fu Factory has soft-launched Nickelodeon Kart Racers, a new free-to-play mobile kart racing starring SpongeBob SquarePants and friends.
Drivers speed their way across slime-filled tracks to unlock gear and parts to grow their vehicles while going head-to-head against a number of fan-favourite Nickelodeon characters,
The list of playable characters includes: SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Sandy Cheeks; Aang from Avatar: The Last Airbender; Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Shredder from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Tommy, Angelica, and Reptar from the Rugrats, Arnold Shortman from Hey Arnold; Rocko from Rocko’s Modern Life; JoJo Siwa, and more.
Bamtang Games and Nickelodeon previously partnered for two console iterations in 2018 and 2020 respectively. This looks to be a different team altogether with Nickledeon turning to mobile specialist Netmarble for the iOS version.
Pokémon Unite
Developer: Tencent and The Pokémon Company Where: Canada Platforms: Android Live since: February 15th, 2021 Updates:(3) March 2nd, 2021
Tencent and The Pokémon Company have announced a regional beta test for its upcoming five-on-five MOBA, Pokémon Unite.
Trainers team up and face off against one another to see who can score the most points within the allotted time. Work together with your fellow Trainers to catch wild Pokémon, level up and evolve your partner Pokémon, and defeat the opposing team’s Pokémon to prevent them from scoring points.
Participants must be at least 16 years old to participate. Progress will be reset upon the beta’s completion. The app is compatible with Android devices that have three gigabytes of RAM or more and have Android version 5.0 or higher installed.
HypeHype
Developer: Frogmind Where: The Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: February 10th, 2021 Updates: (11) April 23rd, 2021
Frogmind has soft-launched game creation and instant games platform HypeHype.
Available in early access, the developer has promised high-quality 3D assets, sounds and add-ons for crafting and the ability to remix "favourite games" as a starting point. Players can challenge one another via a leaderboard while gaining access to a stream of games via the homepage.
There is also a personal profile to showcase creations, games, remixes and achievements, the opportunity to take part in weekly game jams and live streams, as well as a Pro option to gain access to advanced developer tools and features.
Villains - Robot Battle Royale
Developer: Birdletter Where: Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: December 2nd, 2020 Updates: (7) January 26th, 2021
Birdletter has soft-launched Villains - Robot Battle Royale, a new casual battle royale title that supports up to 35 players.
Set in Hellywood, where all the villains are battling to be the baddest in the land, players must shoot, punch and bits until the final victor is crowned champion. Matches last approximately five minutes with a villain pass available to purchase separately.
Playable characters such as Medusa, Frankenstein, Werewolf, Succubus and Dracula can all be dressed in different skins. The studio has stated that intends to add more "notorious villains" including Joker, Thanos and Darth Vader in later updates.
Plantopia
Developer: Voodoo Where: Canada, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Germany and Romania Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: May 7th, 2020 Updates: (25) April 8th, 2021
Voodoo has soft-launched Plantopia, a merge game where you can grow your own Dream Garden and learn how to make organic products out of the plants you grow.
Explore the greenhouse, tool shed and DIY flower factory, with more than 500 objects to be found. By expanding your gardening business and earning cash, players can grow the dream garden of their liking.
While Voodoo is typically known as a hypercasual developer, Plantopia looks to be more of a casual title that incorporates merge mechanics.
The eighth update "revamped the whole game" to give players a new gardening experience.
Angry Birds Journey
Developer: Rovio Where: US, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Canada and Poland Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: January 14th, 2021 Updates: (6) April 14th, 2021
The free-to-play casual puzzler will offer the classic slingshot gameplay that helped make the birds famous but with a new spin on the mechanic. Aimed at beginners to the series as well as long-time veterans, Angry Birds Journey will present brain-testing slingshot-based puzzles in a new art style.
Fan-favourite characters will return and new faces will make their debut for the first time, as the group uncover the story and explore new locales. Rovio will monitor and react to player feedback of Angry Birds Journey to make improvements and "chart a flight path" for the title going forward.
Rovio has subsequently confirmed to PG.biz that Angry Birds Journey is a rebrand of Angry Birds Casual, which was originally given a two-month soft launch phase back in March 2020.
The first update changed some levels for a "smoother gameplay" experience, while also fixing a number of bugs.
The second update fixed an issue that saw the birds fall through the ground, make sure Fireflies always find one another, as well as the aimline precision being approved.
The fourth update added new weekly level packs beginning from March 27th, a number of game-breaking bugs and general performance issues.
Warhammer: Odyssey
Developer: Virtual Realms Where: Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, India and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: December 16th, 2020 Updates: (4) March 3rd, 2021
Warhammer: Odyssey is a free-to-play 3D MMORPG set in the Warhammer Fantasy World set to launch on iOS and Android before subsequently being expanded with episodic updates.
Following a closed beta, Warhammer: Odyssey has released into soft launch/open beta which will then slowly roll out to territories until the game launches at the end of January 2021. During this phase, Virtual Realms will prioritise game balance, ongoing bug fixes and more.
"We firmly believe that this slower, smoother, tiered approach will benefit the players and ourselves more than a rushed one in the long term," read a blog post from the developer.
The third update moved Warhammer: Odyssey into a global soft launch.
PixelJunk Monsters: Trouble in Paradise
Developer: Q-Games Where: Ireland and New Zealand Platforms: iOS Live since: November 6th, 2020 Updates: (1) March 24th, 2021
The PixelJunk series returns to mobile with PixelJunk Monsters: Trouble in Paradise, a new tower defence experience from developer Q-Games.
Explore a vast ocean of unique islands and locales from the tropical Shaha Ba Island to the snow-covered Bik Bokk Island. Use your strategising might in almost 200 challenges that are designed to test your skill.
Build legendary towers like the Anti-Air Tower and Flamethrower Tower to protect your tiki-family of Chibis from the endless waves of strange and ferocious monsters. Along your adventure, you can collect rare cards that will unlock the hidden potential in your arsenal of towers.
The first update fixed an issue with iCloud Drive enabled messaging so it is clear to the player that iCloud Drive needs to be enabled to play.
Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales
Developer: Next Games Where: Australia, Poland and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: December 1st, 2020 Updates: (6) April 29th, 2021
More than a year on from Netflix and Next Games announced a partnership on the Stranger Things IP, the developer has now soft-launched Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales.
The free-to-play puzzle RPG has players adventuring with Eleven, Dustin, and the rest of the gang as they explore locations from the streaming series, including the Palace Arcade, Starcourt Mall, the fearsome Upside Down, and more.
There are over 20 characters to collect and command in battle. Team up with friends to take on massive monsters and new enemies previously unseen to save Hawkins from the Mind Flayer.
The first update fixed an issue that would cause crashes in story mode and the achievements tab, as well as updates to animations, text and enemies.
The second update added a new story chapter, new missions, new enemies and a group of new bosses, alongside several bug fixes and performance issues.
King of Worlds
Developer: 7Senses Where: Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Indonesia, US, and India Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: November 2nd, 2020 Updates: (8) April 19th, 2021
King of Worlds is a free-to-play strategy title from 7senses with an increased pace surrounding the main gameplay.
It's up to players to recruit and train ancient heroes to fight for the kingdom. Whoever occupies the Wonder, which can be found at the centre of the map, will be crowned King and will receive further benefits.
According to the developer, players can master the gameplay in 60 seconds, conquer the region in 24 hours, obtain Tier 3 soldiers in 48 hours and form the strongest alliance in 72 hours.
Garden Tails
Developer: Playdots Where: Finland, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Sweden Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: June 6th, 2020 Updates: (16) March 29th, 2021
Playdots has soft-launched a free-to-play new match-three puzzler under the name of Garden Days: Match and Grow.
Complete match-three levels to unlock friendly animals in an interactive garden, with the land often changing and rewarding gifts. There are also challenges to take part in that will help expand the garden, as well as items to decorate the area.
More gardens can be unlocked as players progress. The first few updates solved a number of major bugs, alongside new UI visuals, and minor bug fixes across the store, catalogue and gameplay.
The 16th update renamed Garden Days: Match and Grow to Garden Tails.
Catalyst Black
Developer: Super Evil Megacorp Where: Indonesia, Singapore, Canada, Hong Kong and the Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: September 29th, 2020 Updates: (21) May 5th, 2021
Vainglory developer Super Evil Megacorp is developing a new team-based battleground shooter known as Catalyst Black.
Set to feature a variety of games modes, an array of weapons and ancient masks capable of transforming players into a primal god from another realm, the studio describes the highly anticipated title as "the next generation of mobile gaming". Users can drop in or drop out anytime in gameplay without fear of being penalised.
Catalyst Black is currently in Early Access with a final release date yet to be announced.
The 13th update added voice chat, alongside a number of bug fixes.
New Football Project
Developer: Konami Where: The UK and Ireland Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: November 13th, 2020 Updates: N/A
Konami has announced that it is working on a new real-time strategy football game designed for mobile, outside of its core PES series.
Players stack their deck with player cards, design a game plan and watch players simulate your strategy with live match play. Go head-to-head in Quick Match mode or dominate the pitch against 15 other players in an online tournament. Lead your team with tactical skill through competitive group stages to win.
A limited closed beta is expected to take place from November 11th to December 2nd, 2020.
Talking Tom: Blast Park
Developer: Outfit7 Where: Colombia, Israel, Sweden, Netherlands, Slovenia, Thailand, Spain, Ukraine, Australia, Canada Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: October 10th, 2020 Updates: October 14th, 2020
Talking Tom and friends are about to open their very own theme park full of cool rides, fun attractions, and exciting worlds when a bunch of raccoon bandits – The Rakoonz – take over and sabotage the rides. The Rakoonz are wreaking havoc in funland and it’s up to players to help Tom save the park.
Tap and shoot to blast The Rakoonz and choose from a range of blasters such as the Bubble Blaster, the Plunger Bow, The Toaster and more. The Rakoonz have stolen Golden Gears that make the rides work, so it's up to you to retrieve them and repair the attractions.
League of Legends: Wild Rift
Developer: Riot Games and Gamevil Where: Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Timor-Leste and North America Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: October 27th, 2020 Updates: (5) March 29th, 2021
Developed specifically for the mobile platform, League of Legends: Wild Rift is a five versus five MOBA from Riot Games.
Players control one of 40 collectable champions, who all possess special abilities for battling opponents. All characters will level up over time via the accumulation of items and experience through battling. The game is scheduled to release on console at a later date too.
League of Legends: Wild Rift regional open beta will be available to players across both iOS and Android in Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste.
The beta is then expected to be rolled out in further locations from early December. This includes Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Oceania, Russia, Taiwan, Turkey and Vietnam. Following this, the beta will make its way to the Americas in Spring 2021. All other regions will arrive later.
As of March 29th, Riot Games has now rolled out the open beta in North America.
Might & Magic: Dynasty
Developer: Ubisoft Where: Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, The Philippines and Canada Platforms: Android Live since: September 21st, 2020 Updates: N/A
Might & Magic: Dynasty is a strategy war game with multiplayer RPG and real-time battle features. Players are tasked with becoming a powerful lord on Ashan, a gorgeous fantasy world waiting to be explored and conquered.
Choose from Haven, Dungeon and Stronghold according to their own preferences and experience. Explore the world, rule your city, recruit legendary heroes, train your army of magical creatures, form a strong alliance with other lords, and join real-time battles to expand your territory.
There are 21 unique creatures based on faction features with each featuring unique abilities. The game looks to bring back many of the legendary heroes from Might and Magic via attributes, spells, and traits.
NFL Clash
Developer: Nifty Games Where: Mexico, Brazil, Australia, Germany and the UK Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: August 14th, 2020 Updates: (12) April 5th, 2021
Nifty Games has soft-launched real-time multiplayer US football title NFL Clash, designed for quick and easy play.
Nifty Games and the NFL's partnerships mean that all official teams from the NFL appear in-game, with over 100 NFL players posters available to collect. Users can acquire new players and collect trophies with every victory.
After initially soft-launching in Mexico and Brazil, NFL Clash has made its way to Australia, Germany, and the UK.
The sixth update changed numerous gameplay elements, such as adding variety to WR routes, improved tackling, improved animation for some movements and various bug fixes.
Om Nom: Idle Candy Factory
Developer: ZeptoLab Where: United Kingdom and the Philippines Platforms: iOS Live since: September 2nd, 2020 Updates: (13) April 13th, 2021
ZeptoLab returns with its newest title Om Nom: Idle Candy Factory, which stars the studio's green mascot in a new sweet puzzler.
Players must help Om Nom manage a Candy Factory in his pursuit to become the "sweetest creature on Earth". Candies will be dropped into a bottle with the help of the Nommies, before falling from the bottle straight to Om Nom's mouth and shaking when candies get stuck.
When there are too many candies, you can use Om Nom's power to drop all of them. Candies can be upgraded for more "sweetness" with lots to discover. Om Nom will keep eating while the app is closed.
The Witcher: Monster Slayer
Developer: Spokko (CD Projekt) Where: New Zealand, Russia and Singapore Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: August 31st, 2020 Updates: (13) April 26th, 2021
CD Projekt-owned developer Spokko has soft-launched an AR location-based title set in the dark fantasy world of The Witcher.
Taking place long before the time of Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher: Monster Slayer features foul creatures that roam the vast lands of the Continent, leaving it down to monster hunters to track them down.
The RPG-inspired combat will see players fight life-size monsters in first-person while traversing familiar locations now infested with dangerous beasts. Alongside this, users can train their character, brew potions and oils, craft bombs, and select the appropriate equipment for the battles ahead.
The third update added a whole host of improvements, such as several ways that will no longer result in the game creasing, better map synchronisation when running in the background, invisible map issues on iPhone 6s, XR and SE, and better combat balancing.
The fifth update made some bug fixes and improvements including Garkain Alpha when appearing on the map will have fixed colours, small bugfixes in 3D asset, and improved AR lighting, with models being more in synchronisation with the lighting conditions.
The sixth update added a daily contracts reward system, alongside several fixes across dialogue, permissions, notifications and more.
The 13th update began offering pre-registration to players on Android via Google Play.
Otherworld Heroes
Developer: Bublar Group Where: Sweden, Poland and Indonesia Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: August 12th, 2020 Updates: (9) April 25th, 2021
Bublar Game Studios has soft-launched what it calls the first-ever location-based MMORPG with Otherworld Heroes.
Players work individually or together to solve missions, fight enemies, and gather resources to advance through the game's different dimensions. The game is free-to-play and requires a GPS connection to enable the map-based gameplay.
The soft launch is taking place via different phases on the iOS and Android platforms with a focus on testing, evaluating, and improving technology, gaming experience, and monetization for commercial launch.
The second update added a new Daily Login UI and mini-tutorials, and re-vamped various parts of the game's UI.
The fourth update added a number of new mini-tutorials as well as a host of fixes, including map loading, stats calculations, animations, and more.
Farmscapes
Developer: Playrix Where: Canada, Australia and the UK Platforms: iOS Live since: August 11th, 2020 Updates: (20) March 2nd, 2021
Playrix returns with its latest match-three puzzle and decorating game Farmscapes.
Players join Mary in her efforts to turn an abandoned farm into a rustic paradise. Restore the area into a dream village: decorate it with numerous items, grow a garden, and take care of the animals, including the cat Edward.
Interestingly, Playrix launched a similar mobile title under the same name nearly a decade ago, which is no longer available to download today.
The 20th update added a new story chapter and made the game available in 10 different languages.
Treasure Tails
Developer: Space Ape Where: The Netherlands, Australia and the Philippines Platforms: iOS Live since: August 11th, 2020 Updates: (12) February 22nd, 2021
Space Ape has soft-launched a pinball treasure collecting game under the name of Treasure Tails.
Collect coins, flying pegs, shields and the chance to attack your friends before utilising the coins to help build a village. Master the pegboard to get buckets of boosts, bonuses, and events to max your winnings.
The free-to-play title allows users to attack, raid and steal from other players to make even more gold.
The first update added Facebook integration, a new main menu, and some new artwork and bug fixes.
Disney Wonderful Worlds
Developer: Ludia Where: The Philippines and Indonesia Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: July 22nd, 2020 Updates: (20) April 12th, 2021
Ludia has teamed up with The Walt Disney Company to produce a new free-to-play match-three game known as Disney Wonderful Worlds.
Minnie, Mickey and other classic Disney characters will all feature as players solve puzzles, before going on to build their own theme park. Level up and build your park with exclusive decorations, landmarks and characters.
"The player's park will come to life every day through live events, such as the Main Street Parade or Evening Fireworks Show, and fulfil the dreams of an ever-growing number of guests each with their own personality." Ludia CEO and president Alex Thabet told PocketGamer.biz.
The Lord of the Rings: Rise to War
Developer: NetEase Where: Australia, Canada and the Philippines Platforms: Android Live since: July 15th, 2020 Updates: (4) February 2nd, 2021
Warner Bros. Interactive has partnered with NetEase Games for a new mobile game based on J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings series.
The Lord of the Rings: Rise to War is a mobile strategy title that will be set in the Third Age of Middle-Earth, with iconic characters and locations from the original film trilogy due to feature too. The promotional image shared by WB during the announcement points to the familiar location of the Grand Minas Tirith.
The first regional beta test is available in Australia and the Philippines on Google Play.
In the first update, NetEase confirmed that the studio is currently optimising the game and preparing for new beta tests.
NetEase announced a second regional beta test that will open from December 9th, 2020 and will available in Canada, Australia and the Philippines once more.
Marvel Duel
Developer: NetEase Where: Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines Platforms: Android Live since: June 28th, 2020 Updates: (11) April 25th, 2021
NetEase's second title utilising the Marvel license arrives in the form of Marvel Duel, a strategy card game.
A mysterious evil force has altered the most iconic events of Marvel history. To restore the universe, players summon superheroes from across the galaxy to outsmart opponents. They will also experience well-known events such as Civil War, Infinity War, and more, but with unexpected plots and twists.
Claiming to be one of the largest rosters of Marvel characters in a mobile game ever, more than 150 characters are available for collection and upgrade. Players in these soft-launched territories can pre-register to obtain 10 General Expansion Packs.
The fifth update added a new team-up mode (two versus two versus two), while also making the game available in Hong Kong, Singapore and Macau.
The seventh update made it so superheroes can get their fifth hero skill, players who ranked top 100 on the Ladder will get a new Reward Card, as well as a new duel replay function and weekly sign-in events.
The ninth update added Doctor Strange as a new superhero, alongside new cards, a Sanctum Sanctorium Battlefield, and a new deck lobby.
Catan: World Explorers
Developer: Niantic Where: Denmark, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, and Australia Platforms: Android Live since: July 1st, 2020 Updates: (17) April 21st, 2021
Niantic has teamed up with Asmodee to create a new multiplayer augmented reality mobile game based on the popular board game Catan.
Following up to the studio's third release via Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, Catan: World Explorers sees the world being transformed into one big game of Catan.
Niantic previously confirmed to PG.biz that the company is involved in the project, with the game being created on its Real World Platform and will reveal more information in 2020.
The sixth update soft-launched the game in Singapore, Switzerland, and Australia.
The 13th update added a Mayor system, where players can contribute to a Settlement to become Mayor for a week, as well as a number of bug fixes for weak phone connections and location services.
Crooked Pines: Tasty Match 3
Developer: MyTona Where: Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK Platforms: iOS Live since: April 24th, 2020 Updates: (13) December 30th, 2020
MyTona's latest match-three puzzler, Crooked Pines, has players renovating their old family home into a new customised restaurant.
Working alongside your cousin Ingrid, players must try to save their family's mansion from demolition by completing the puzzle challengers. Animations will feature from customers and magical helpers to help with progression.
By guiding the story, users will be able to restore and unlock new rooms before the "greedy businessmen" find a way to take down the estate.
Harry Potter: Magic Awakened
Developer: NetEase (Warner Bros.) Where: China Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: May 29th, 2020 Updates: (1) January 11th, 2021
The new mobile RPG with collectable card elements takes place several years after the second wizarding war. Players will create a Muggle-born character who will receive a letter to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. From here, players can learn spells, attend lessons, select their Hogwarts House, and join clubs such as duelling.
The story begins once Ivy Warrington, a fellow student at Hogwarts, disappears during a Sorting Ceremony, leading the player to help find where she went. No details surrounding a Western release have been detailed but players in China can sign up to participate in an open beta.
The first open beta took place in China from May 29th, 2020 to June 12, 2020.
The second open beta took place in China from December 29th, 2020 to January 11th, 2021
Hardhead Squad: MMO War
Developer: Rovio Where: Poland, US, Finland Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: June 9th, 2020 Updates: (14) April 19th, 2021
According to the description, players must lead their troops to war and conquer multiple unique territories before recruiting "epic action heroes" and making their way through the Las Island de Verdes.
Users will seemingly be able to strategise and socialise in real-time with thousands of players all around the world.
Puzzle Breakers
Developer: Playrix Where: The Philippines Platforms: Android Live since: April 29th, 2020 Updates: (10) December 8th, 2020
Playrix has soft-launched a new match-three puzzler where you control heroes and attack enemies on the battlefield under the name of Puzzle Breakers.
Enemies move through the field and employ devious tactics to defeat you. Strong fighters try to engage you in melee, archers and mages attack from the top of towers and hiding places. Players must use heroes and unique abilities to attack and control your enemies or to heal their allies.
Destroy walls and covers, shoot at explosive barrels and wipe your pesky enemies off the map.
The first update reworked the first campaign with new enemy mechanics, abilities, a brand new tutorial as well as various bug fixes and smaller improvements.
The eight update added Clan Wars as a new mode.
Dragon Brawlers
Developer: I Got Games Where: Chile, Indonesia, Ecuador, Mexico, Argentina and Brazil Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: May 20th, 2020 Updates: (20) April 24th, 2021
Enter the world of dragons and heroes to become the best in Dragon Brawlers, a new three versus three battle royale MOBA game.
Players train their own Dragon and participate in quick battles that last approximately five minutes. Unlock and train a large number of Dragons, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Befriend or challenge other Dragon Brawlers and compete against players all around the world.
Mad Skills Motocross 3
Developer: Turborilla Where: Canada and the Philippines Platforms: Android Live since: April 17th, 2020 Updates: (10) April 22nd, 2021
The Mad Skills Motocross series returns with its third iteration now soft-launched on Android.
The side-scrolling racing game has players competing against one another over different tracks and difficult terrain. By competing and winning races, faster motorcycles are unlocked with a global scoreboard available to see how riders stack up against one another.
Both single-player and versus mode will be accessible for players in Canada and the Philippines through testing.
The third update "improved" the garage, store and performance, while adding prizes to events.
The sixth update added a new Championship game mode with prizes, new locations to visit (including Canada), new tracks, new bike decals and gear.
The eighth update added a new track set in France, increased rewards, alongside updated the main menu and garage, increased rewards.
Globematcher
Developer: Mars 1982 Where: Kosovo, Jordan, Nauru and South Korea Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: April 12th, 2020 Updates: (9) July 30th, 2020
Japanese lifestyle brand Tokidoki has teamed with Sanrio's Hello Kitty for a cartoon multiplayer match-three puzzler, known as Globematcher.
Friends can connect over Facebook or via a unique registration ID to compete against one another. Blast your opponents and build your planets, gain and collect your strawberry coins and save them in the account, then play this brain puzzle game and spin to win some more.
A rewards system is in place to access more gameplay or gain further opportunities to progress in-game. Monetisation works through both an ad-based and pay-to-play basis.
The seventh update has seen Globematcher enter pre-launch with a global launch expected shortly.
Disney Mirrorverse
Developer: Kabam Where: Romania, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Denmark, Indonesia and The Philippines Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: March 31st, 2020 Updates: (27) March 31st, 2021
Kabam has collaborated with Disney on a new action-RPG called Disney Mirrorverse.
Players unite teams of guardians - made up from well-known Disney and Pixar characters - to defend against an unrelenting dark threat. Sulley, Baymax, Scar, Captain Jack Sparrow, the Genie, Merida, Belle, Oogie Boogie and more are all set to appear.
The Mirrorverse features worlds such as Agrabah Merchant’s Alley, Scarefloor F, and Port Royal Queen’s Landing.
The fourth update rolled out Alliances so players can take part in events together as well as the 'Unlikely Allies' campaign, a limited-time event quest where.
The fifth update has put Alliances live, which allows players to band together to take part in events and win rewards, alongside bug fixes, performance optimisations, and grammar fixes.
The 11th update added new characters, extended act two to include chapter two and three, added 11 new languages to its localisation, as well as new music and fixes.
The 23rd update added chapter three to the story mode, new guardians and new rewards have been introduced, and Scrooge's Risky Venture has become playable.
Tiles & Tales
Developer: Kuuhubb Where: Finland, Croatia, Netherlands, The Philippines and Australia Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: March 19th, 2020 Updates: (10) February 1st, 2021
Tiles & Tales looks to combine two of the most popular genres within the female gaming community; match-three and visual novels.
"Tiles and Tales is our flagship second-generation game and Kuuhubb’s key focus in calendar year 2020," said Kuuhubb CEO Jouni Keränen.
"I am extremely proud of our talented development team for all the dedication, hard work and love they have poured into the game. I am confident that this is the beginning of a new long-term franchise and an important growth driver for Kuuhubb in the future".
Pirate Evolution
Developer: Gram Games Where: Canada, Singapore, Netherlands, Austria, Ireland, Australia and Finland Platforms: Android Live since: December 2nd, 2019 Updates: (20) April 13th, 2021
Gram Games' new sea-based adventure has players captaining their own pirate ship in Pirate Evolution.
Over 140 islands are accessible with treasure scattered throughout. Battle enemies you encounter along the way to collect loot and thus upgrade your ship and weapons.
Another component allows bases to be expanded while pirate crews can be frown to increase overall power to help take over the high seas.
Ivy: Stories We Play
Developer: Pocket Gems Where: Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines Platforms: iOS Live since: November 20th, 2019 Updates: (11) February 11th, 2021
The creators of the mobile game Episode return with Ivy: Stories We Play, a mature story-driven episodic adventure that is said to feature "drama" and "thrills".
Take control of protagonist Ivy across a number of stories, which introduces the character to new worlds with complex themes, fantasies and desires.
Players get to make all the choices for how the story unfolds, whether that's partying with singles in Miami or recovering from the death of your partner.
LEGO Star Wars Battles
Developer: Playdemic Where: India, Phillippines, Australia, New Zealand and Denmark Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: September 9th, 2019 Updates: (14) November 2nd, 2020
Collect, build and fight in Lego Star Wars Battles, with famous characters from the series going head-to-head.
Take part in real-time multiplayer PvP battles in arenas inspired by iconic locations, while collecting and upgrading your inventory of famous faces.
Build LEGO towers on the battlefield to strategically attack, defend, and capture territory as you push towards the enemy base to claim victory.
The sixth update added in the Wookie planet of Kashyyyk as well as several new characters including BB8, BB9E and Moroff.
The eighth update made sweeping changes to balancing, most notably reducing map sizes and increasing troop movement speed to make for faster battles.
The ninth update added a new scan system, supply beacons, interplanetary travel, planet milestone rewards, a new planet, new champions and new towers.
The 10th update balanced the leaderboard scoring system and amended some known crashes and loading issues.
The 12th update made it so players could battle in the shadow of a Super Star Destroyer on Jakku, as well as adding several new units and bug fixes.
The 13th update added events, allowing players to earn Holocron Scans and Champion Cards from taking part in different, regularly updated events.
Avatar: Pandora Rising
Developer: Scopely/Boundless Where: Canada, New Zealand, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland and the Philippines Platforms: iOS Live since: September 16th, 2019 Updates: (16) January 20th, 2021
Avatar: Pandora Rising is a massive real-time strategy and social game based on James Cameron's smash hit 2009 film. Players choose to lead a flourishing Na’vi village deep in the bioluminescent forest or can build a prosperous human mining colony and base to save Earth.
Compete and play for both the human and Na'vi sides of the conflict to immerse yourself in an epic battle for survival and determine the fate of Pandora.
Build and battle in a massive, social and open world with deep combat flexibility and extensive breadth of play.
The second update brought in a host of new features and updates, including two new enemy troops, changed the user interface, updated the leaderboard UI, balance adjustments and more. Two specific bugs were also fixed concerning the commander talents and cancelling an outpost.
The 12th update added safeguard commanders Syanan and Leon, improved deck management, increased protected amounts and available combat protection, as well as eliminated a number of bugs.
The 15th update includes a fix to prevent some purchasing issues, but no other changes to the game.
FarmVille 3 - Animals
Developer: Zynga Where: Australia, Belgium Malaysia, Netherlands, Italy, Philippines and Thailand Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: July 17th, 2019 Updates: (19) April 6th, 2021
Zynga has soft-launched a new entry into the FarmVille series, with the aim of restoring a farm to its former glory.
Players can build the farm in the design of their choice as well as breed a number of rare animals. Farmhands are available to help pitch in with the work too.
Grow crops, decorate the farm and weather whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
The second and third updates introduced more decorations, building skins and improved upon the title’s graphics.
The fifth and sixth update added better memory optimisations.
The ninth update added co-op mode allowing players to partner up with 25 other farmers maximum and several new exotic animals including tigers, penguins, kangaroos and more.
The 11th update added a Weather Station, so players can forecast the weather and boost the output from their harvest, as well as co-op leaderboards and themed outfits for farmhands.
Wild Things: Animal Adventures
Developer: Jam City Where: New Zealand, Thailand and the US Platforms: iOS Live since: January 22nd, 2019 Updates: (23) August 24th, 2020
Jam City has soft-launched match-three puzzler Wild Things in a bid to make your heart sing.
Wild Things: Animal Adventures features a myriad of cutely animated created called the Wild Things who live peacefully in a diverse land. Their tranquil life is all thanks to a tree, which is also referred to as their “touchstone”.
As it goes, nothing good can last and it appears something is on the way to upset the balance. Gameplay-wise, you’ll be navigating your way through match-three puzzles with plenty of animals to collect.
The 11th update added a new story with two new chapters and 130 new levels, as well as improvements to the game board and front-end visuals.
The 15th update added one new Chapter and 31 new levels among performance updates and bug fixes.
The 19th update added a new adventure for Emma, Liam, Zelda and Arvind, as well as a new river element.
Blade Runner Rogue
Developer: Next Games Where: United Kingdom, Poland, Netherlands, Finland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand Platforms: iOS and Android Live since: July 10th, 2018 Updates: (29) April 20th, 2021
Blade Runner Rogue is a role-playing game with a story that will no doubt be indulgent should you be a fan of the original films, or even the book if you’re a Philip K Dick fan. As a fresh-faced blade runner, you’re tasked with collecting evidence to aid you in hunting down rogue replicants.
Staple characters from the series are collectable and will aid you in overcoming threats. Freshly formed teams can also be powered up to take on more challenging targets with proportionate awards.
You don’t have to go it alone though as friends and blade runners alike can be enlisted to help you accomplish a mission.
During Next Games' financial report for 2020, the developer confirmed that Blade Runner Rogue will launch in key markets
The 17th update added a selection of new characters from the Blade Runner universe as well as performance and usability improvements.
The 18th update saw the game enter early access while adding new case files, a new Patrol game mode and improved the user interface.
The 19th update added a tutorial for new players, new animations, bigger health bars for boss battles, push notifications, UI enhancements and bug fixes.
The 21st update introduced rogue-like gameplay, as well as "multi-branched cases" where each choice makes a difference. Players need to collect clues to improve your team and to gain an advantage over enemies.
The 23rd update added a whole host of minor improvements, such as progress rewards, tutorial changes, new dialogue, skills and bug fixes.
The 25th update renamed the game from Blade Runner 2049 to Blade Runner Rogue.
The 27th update rolled out a battle pass where players earn Battle Points to claim rewards, alongside several bug fixes.
The 29th update added guilds, where you and friends can squad up to take down replicants together, alongside a new boss mode across the city known as The Hunt. Further changes were made to the battle pass as well as a number of bugs being eradicated too.
Big Quest 2. A kind of game with a new experience. Quest adventure in a wide and varied world. More for rest and relaxation, but there is also something to think about while admiring the views in the game.
Woojun Jeong Business Development Team Assistant Manager at Haegin
"Play Together", multi-player social networking game, is in softlaunch on Android and iOS in Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and India.
We'd be appreciated to see our new game on your list.
Phoenix Rangers has just been canceled by Rovio (according to their discord)
Survive Together change to Endless Survival by Gameloft
Riddleside and Puzzle Combat are both global.
As far as we're aware the game is still in development. Updates in soft launch can vary heavily, sometimes being as long as a year before another. I expect we'll hear more soon though.
Zynga has confirmed the game's soft-launch -https://www.pocketgamer.biz/news/72741/zynga-portkey-games-warner-bros-harry-potter-puzzles-and-spells-reveal/
We contacted Futureplay about Battle Bombers Arena yesterday and the game is still considered to be in soft launch at the studio, so we're keeping it in there for now!
Anders Leicht Rohde CCO & Founder at Funday Factory
Bullet League from Funday Factory just went into soft launch through Google Early Access last week: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fundayfactory.bl
Angry Birds Dream Blast is launched gobal. WWE Universe, Legend at War, Final Space AR, Rumble Star Soccer, and Kitty Catsanova are Soft Launched on Android too. Shadowbreak, Go Race Super Karts and World of Demons all have been canned or so says messages within the game.
Don't suppose you'd have a screenshot handy of the World of Demons in-game message about it being canned? If so! Could you send it to me at iain.harris@steelmedia.co.uk?
Sadly, I do not have a screenshot. This out of all that I mentioned World of Demons is the only one that I can't fully confirm. I have seen at least 3 people mention that they got a message in fhe game saying that it would be shut down in Mid August but again I can't fully confirm this grain of salt.
Elex soft launched Call of Duty: Global Operations in November, Activision soft launched Call of Duty: Legends of War in December and King Soft Launched Call of Duty Shooter (Unreleased) test version in January.
The last installment in the Asphalt series by Gameloft, Asphalt 9: Legends, went live in the Philippines a few hours ago, seems promising. It may be worth checking on.
found 2 VPNs that have philippenes server, vyprvpn and expressvpn - vypr gave me server error but express let me play. It looks very nice on ipad pro 2
Zwing Games has soft launched "Keno Prime" on iOS and Android in Canada, Australia and India. Just search Keno Prime on respective your phone's app store app.
Legends of Solgard has finally soft launched on ios as of October 5, 2017 in the Phillipines! I have been checking many stores almost daily for this one! Loved Might and Magic Clash of Heroes and played the campaign at least twice, and the multiplayer vs battles for years. Could not believe someone hadn't successfully copied or re-invented this formula because its really fun. Here's hoping Legend of Solgard is just as addictive!
Solgard is sooooo disappointing. It's sad because the images look soo much like Might and Magic Clash of Heroes...and the battle mechanics are basically similar, but that's about where that charm stops.
Hi Nick, we're trying to keep this list as the 'top games in soft launch' and limit the number to roughly 50 (give or take a few companies), which is why some games don't get added. If we feel they are particularly significant, we'll add them. We do of course read the comments to see what the community has spotted, so thank you for your support.
I'd like to add our game if possible. I saw it on pocketgamer -- but not here on pocketgamer.biz
Raziel: Dungeon Arena
Developer: Indra (Guangzhou Di Shi Tian Software)
Where: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore
Platforms: iOS (Android coming soon)
Live since: 02 August 2017
Last update: 09 September 2017 (Ver 1.3)
I am currently seeing a match 3 game by Jam City in soft launch on the Philippines Appstore and Google Play called Safari Smash. I pulled most of the following info from the app's listing in the Appstore.
Game Title : Safari Smash
Developer : Jam City, Inc.
Where : Philippines
Platforms : Android, iOS
Live Since : 10 March 2017
Updates : (12) last 30 August 2017
Netmarble soft launched Phatomgate on IOS and Android in Australia on August 8th. Nekki soft launched Shadow Fight 3 beta in Canada on July 18th but for those who got in invite.
Thomas Streetman Community Relations Manager at Smilegate
Great list you have here. Very useful!
I would like to add a game to the list if possible,
WarReign
Developer: Smilegate Megaport / Red Sahara Studio
Where: Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong, Macao, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Ireland, Nigeria
Platforms: Android / iOS
Live since: 20 June 2017
Last update: 13 July 2017
Middle-earth: Shadow of War, Assassin's Creed: Rebellion, Candy Crush Friends Saga Angry Birds Match, Mighty Battles, Snipers vs Thieves, Toon Blast, War Planet Online: Global Conquest, Lineage 2 Revolution and Modern Combat Versus is all on Android. Snoopy Pop has been released worldwide. And Warner Bros has soft launch Game of Thrones: Conquest (Unreleased) Android and IOS.
Got another question.
Normally when games get released but only in a certain region ie during soft launch/beta etc, the APK is normally available for that game so people outside that region can play it.
However game of thrones: conquest has been released in phillipines but nowhere has the APK for it, justly wandering why there is no APK for game of thrones: conquest atm?
I'm not an expert when it comes to this kind of stuff so there might be a simple reason why.
If you could let me know that would be great.
I found a APK of the game a few weeks ago and I downloaded it but once I did it keep telling me to download the update but I could not for the life of me find out where the updated APK is. And the reason there isn't any APKs for Game of Thrones Conquest it depends on where the game has soft launched how many people knows about the game. A lot of people use VPN to download the game from the Google Play or something but sometimes VPN doesn't work for it. So it depends. Hopefully one will be released soon. I'm not a genius with these things either that's a out all I am able to tell you about that.
Hi
I've been following game of thrones: conquest since it was announced back in 2015.
It was soft launched in the Philippines around the 28th June but there is very little info or timeline about when it's going to be fully launched etc.
I don't suppose anyone has any rough idea, heard anything or from your past experiences of soft launches of other games be able to tell me a rough time when u think it will be released globally?
Will it be weeks or months?
All I can tell you at the moment is will most definitely be out by the end of 2017. Like you said it's been in development since 2015 so it shouldn't be much longer
Hi Nick, we of course keep track of the comments and try to update this on a weekly basis. We'll be updating again in a week's time so keep a look out, though we're trying to keep the list at around 50 entries at the moment. Thanks for your suggestions and support!
Crusaders of light is soft launched today its an mmo like Order and Chaos from gameloft preregister for offical launch here https://crusadersoflight.com/
Regions=Australia,New Zealand,Malaysia and Phlipines NA comes later
Good spot! It can be tricky keeping an eye on fourty-odd games while trying to find other ones to add in too when it's just me handling the page, so I appreciate the help :)
Do you play Summoners War? I know a game that is coming out in May that I think will actually be better than Summoners War and take over the Mobile RPG community.
Dear sir I am was so upset because I was big frnd of glu.but 1 year past why glu don't lunch deer hunter 2018 or dino hunter 2.I don't know but I am waiting for those game.My dream is play this game.I have WiFi now but glu not lunched any hunting in middle of 2016-17.dear sir plz lunched those hunting game.I request u sir.plz
Lego Quest, Angry Birds Evolution, Fightlings, Legacy of Zeus and Rabbit Crazy Rush are all soft Launched on android, and Pet Monsters has been cancelled.
Just me running the show! Android version is still listed on App Annie as being available and some games have come back from update gaps this long, so I left it in the list in case it made a miraculous recovery.
Angry birds Blast and The Trail are both soft launched on Android I don't know exactly where though and Angry Birds Goal! Is now called Angry Birds Football!
It's really annoying that you don't include the platform for these games.
Minitropolis and Warlords, for example, are Android only right now.
I found that out at ter searching 5 different app stores, scouring Facebook pages, and writing the developers.
You could just include the info in the header.
Boyana Nikolova VP, Business Development at Halfbrick Studios
Thank you so much Chris and team!
The feature of Star Skater means a lot, we really appreciate it!
We are so excited about this one and we'll keep you updated as it progresses towards global launch. Catch up soon! :)
Thanks for the mention! In addition to soft launching in the territories you listed, we're also really keen to hear feedback from players on all our titles, and will often send out beta invites via submission on playraven.com/beta as well as from our game sites. Also... Next release is Winterstate, more on that soon :)
With an affinity for eccentricity, as well as anything macabre or just plain weird, Chris searches for the games that fly under the radar. If you ask him, anything can be a game. Oh, and a game can be about anything, if you put enough thought into it. So, there.
This is what these days people dare to call a "good line-up" of upcoming "great" "games" ?
They all look the same, same graphics style, same boring combat system and yeah, nice f2p monetization.
I ask you this: what is new in term of gameplay that they bring to the table, that makes them worthy of our attention ?
And the answer lies in the pictures and gameplay videos. That is: NOTHING.
We are living the days of easy money grabs. Pick a successful title, now play it, see what mechanics drive it.
Ask your dev team or friends if you can make a clone of it fast.
Then pick an epic title, color it cute (maybe even add a new mechanic or change one mechanic that you didn't like in the original) and sell it as something new.
PS: Don't forget to invest massively in user acquisition inorder to boost it to the top and boast after about download numbers.
I feel your pain. As a dev I feel the pain: I just launched Number Chef http://www.numberchef.com/ - it's totally new gameplay, not a clone of any game - but then again, no fancy graphics, big budgets or big f2p monetization. Try telling that story to the world. :/ (Well, but I am trying.)
Surely if it was that simple, every game would be a massive success, which clearly is not the case.
"We are living the days of easy money grabs". I disagree. Maybe in 2010/2011 you could do this on the App Store. Now you have to invest millions and know exactly what you are doing to have any chance of success.
Currently, there is a certain way of F2P monetisation, but you could say exactly the same thing about the gameplay of console shooters.
So what if people want to make money? The true sin of what you mention is the lazy design, lack of innovation and overall mass cloning. F2p monetization itself isn't bad. People need money. This should drive innovation, but Alas, as you say, it doesn't. I'm making a game with a very creative core mechanic (action, not bullshit turn based), an intuitive UI and nice user flows/UX, but WITH RPG elements. Why? to make money. It's not a sin. It will help me further innovate. This should be the state of the market.
The Game 'Ultimate Zombie Fighting' is also in Soft Launch on google play in Canada, Italy and Mexico. Will launch next month. Let me know what you guys think of it.
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We'd be appreciated to see our new game on your list.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.haegin.playtogether
https://apps.apple.com/au/app/play-together/id1402384531
- Idle Farm Tycoon
- Idle Restaurant Tycoon
(GP/iOS in Canada, Australia, Great Britain)
Survive Together change to Endless Survival by Gameloft
Riddleside and Puzzle Combat are both global.
#1 - D3's "G.I. Joe: War on Cobra". It's basically a better Rush War.
#2 - FoxNext's "Avatar: Pandora Rising". It's basically Clash Royale meets a 4X game.
https://www.resetera.com/threads/pok%C3%A9mon-masters-pre-register-now-available-soft-launch-coming-tomorrow-to-singapore-and-very-soon-in-canada.130850/
Rovio softlaunched Angry Birds POP 2 on iOS in UK
- Riddleside: Fading Legacy (iOS - UK, New Zealand, Russia, Australia)
- Manastorm: Arena of Legends (iOS - Russia)
- Moonlight Mystery (iOS - Canada, Philippines,UK)
- Sushi Dash (iOS - Canada)
Soft launched in the Phillipines by GameHouse, My Original Stories
Could you add those to the list?(:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.haegin.homerunclash
https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1345750763
I’m the Community Manager of Homerun Clash (Developer: Heagin Corp.). We’d be really appreciated to see our App on your list.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.morningames.jetmanvsevilbirds
this new game is a serious contender for the 50 top games in soft launch
the current ranking is about to blow before christmas this year
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.king.knightsrage
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ooblada.poseidon&hl=en_GB
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/neolympia-heroes/id1141905051?l=fr&mt=8
I'm their Community Manager :) We'd all love to see our baby App visible on your prestigious outlet, and would be very grateful for the opportunity!
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.matteljv.uno
Beta site :https://raskullsonline.com/beta/
Digamore
Live in PH and SE
https://marvelstrikeforce.com/
Armello from League of Geeks is soft-launched on iOS in New Zealand and Australia
Wartide: Heroes or Atlantis once again soft launched on Android and IOS in Singapore and Philippines on August 23rd this time by Kongregate.
Raziel: Dungeon Arena
Developer: Indra (Guangzhou Di Shi Tian Software)
Where: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore
Platforms: iOS (Android coming soon)
Live since: 02 August 2017
Last update: 09 September 2017 (Ver 1.3)
Game Title : Safari Smash
Developer : Jam City, Inc.
Where : Philippines
Platforms : Android, iOS
Live Since : 10 March 2017
Updates : (12) last 30 August 2017
Track upcoming events in Brawl Stars Game and you profile progress in Brawl Stars Companion application:
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/companion-for-brawl-stars/id1260329107?l=ru&ls=1&mt=8
I would like to add a game to the list if possible,
WarReign
Developer: Smilegate Megaport / Red Sahara Studio
Where: Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong, Macao, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Ireland, Nigeria
Platforms: Android / iOS
Live since: 20 June 2017
Last update: 13 July 2017
Thanks!
Normally when games get released but only in a certain region ie during soft launch/beta etc, the APK is normally available for that game so people outside that region can play it.
However game of thrones: conquest has been released in phillipines but nowhere has the APK for it, justly wandering why there is no APK for game of thrones: conquest atm?
I'm not an expert when it comes to this kind of stuff so there might be a simple reason why.
If you could let me know that would be great.
Cheers
I've been following game of thrones: conquest since it was announced back in 2015.
It was soft launched in the Philippines around the 28th June but there is very little info or timeline about when it's going to be fully launched etc.
I don't suppose anyone has any rough idea, heard anything or from your past experiences of soft launches of other games be able to tell me a rough time when u think it will be released globally?
Will it be weeks or months?
Any help would be great
Thanks :)
Developer: Stanga Games
Where: UK, Germany, France,..
Platforms: iOS, GP
Live since: 2015
Updates: last 6 June 2017
Never ever mentioned on PocketGamer ;-)
Regions=Australia,New Zealand,Malaysia and Phlipines NA comes later
And yes, it's awesome
Minitropolis and Warlords, for example, are Android only right now.
I found that out at ter searching 5 different app stores, scouring Facebook pages, and writing the developers.
You could just include the info in the header.
I check this page religiously, really appreciate the work you put into it.
The feature of Star Skater means a lot, we really appreciate it!
We are so excited about this one and we'll keep you updated as it progresses towards global launch. Catch up soon! :)
Just wanted to let everyone know, we've just updated our Soft Launch build to 2.0.3.
We've added loads of new features, including Shareable Replays, Chat & Friends, Leaderboards and more.
Check it out and let us know what you think!
itunes.apple.com/app/id847340288
Cheers!
They all look the same, same graphics style, same boring combat system and yeah, nice f2p monetization.
I ask you this: what is new in term of gameplay that they bring to the table, that makes them worthy of our attention ?
And the answer lies in the pictures and gameplay videos. That is: NOTHING.
We are living the days of easy money grabs. Pick a successful title, now play it, see what mechanics drive it.
Ask your dev team or friends if you can make a clone of it fast.
Then pick an epic title, color it cute (maybe even add a new mechanic or change one mechanic that you didn't like in the original) and sell it as something new.
PS: Don't forget to invest massively in user acquisition inorder to boost it to the top and boast after about download numbers.
Surely if it was that simple, every game would be a massive success, which clearly is not the case.
"We are living the days of easy money grabs". I disagree. Maybe in 2010/2011 you could do this on the App Store. Now you have to invest millions and know exactly what you are doing to have any chance of success.
Currently, there is a certain way of F2P monetisation, but you could say exactly the same thing about the gameplay of console shooters.
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