Flappy Bird Creator Responds to Backlash Over Revival

The original Flappy Bird creator, Dong Nguyen, has publicly distanced himself from the game's recent revival by the Flappy Bird Foundation. Nguyen, who famously removed Flappy Bird from app stores in 2014 despite its immense popularity, insists he did not sell any rights to the game. The foundation, established in 2023, aims to restore and expand the Flappy Bird legacy, but Nguyen has made clear he has no involvement or support for the project, which is entangled in questions about NFT and cryptocurrency elements introduced by new developers.

The controversy stems from the Flappy Bird Foundation's claim to the game’s trademark, which was declared abandoned by the USPTO after Nguyen failed to respond to trademark notices. The foundation is attempting to bring back the game while incorporating modern elements like NFTs and cryptocurrencies, leading Nguyen to clarify his disassociation from the project.

Flappy Bird, developed by Nguyen's studio .GEARS, became an overnight sensation upon its release in 2013, captivating millions with its simple yet addictive gameplay. After its sudden withdrawal from stores, it left a lasting impact on mobile gaming culture, leading to numerous clones and an ongoing nostalgia among gamers. The recent interest in reviving Flappy Bird indicates its significance in the gaming industry and the challenges regarding intellectual property rights associated with classic titles.