The app Flappy Bird has become a major, major sensation. But as of February 9, 2014, Flappy Bird is no longer. Don’t even think about trying to cash in on that name.
Last week, the popular game Flappy Bird was taken down. It wasn’t because of legal or economic woes, but because instant fame and fortune became too much for founder Dong Nguyen. Apple and Google are now rejecting games with the word ‘flappy’ in them. A game designer, Ken Carpenter, had his ‘Flappy Dragon’ app rejected because of this. A gaming designer company named Kuyi Mobile had their ‘Flappy’ ideas turned down.
A few years ago, a young teenager released a video and song ‘Friday’ on You Tube. This song got so popular so quick that the girl was subject to bullying and other social problems. She just got burnout and I don’t think she’s made another song/video since. I think that’s what happened to Dong Nguyen. These days, fame and fortune can happen so fast. With the advent of social media, it can happen. One day, you’re living a regular life. The next day, you’re an instant celebrity, whether you want to be or not. Now for those who want to take advantage: I don’t blame them and can’t hate on them. So long as they’re not copying Nguyen’s exact idea, I say let them do so. And as long as the have Dong’s backing, go for it. I know there’s a huge debate about creative ethics, but as long as it’s done responsibly, I say go for it. Do you think Apple and Google are being too strict with this policy?