The partnership between Flexion and EA marks another significant step in expanding the reach of EA's mobile game catalog to alternative app stores, enhancing accessibility for users who don't rely on Google Play or the iOS App Store. This move signals a major shift in how large publishers are viewing the potential outside of Apple and Google's ecosystems.

Alternative app stores have been gaining traction, especially since legal rulings compelled Apple to open up to third-party app stores in regions like the EU. Flexion, having previously brought Candy Crush Solitaire to alternative platforms, is now teaming up with EA once again to make more of the publisher's mobile titles available on these alternative storefronts.

You might be wondering, "What does this mean for me?" Traditionally, mobile gaming has been dominated by the iOS App Store and Google Play. However, recent legal changes have challenged anti-competitive practices, leading to a surge in alternative app stores. These platforms often offer attractive incentives to draw in users. For instance, the Epic Games Store is known for its free game promotions, and while Flexion's platforms might not go to such extremes, they are likely to provide more flexible policies than those typically seen from Apple and Google.

Looking ahead, EA's involvement in this shift is noteworthy. As a giant in the gaming industry, known for acquiring smaller developers, EA's move towards alternative app stores suggests a broader industry trend. This could pave the way for other companies to follow suit.

While the specific EA games heading to these alternative app stores haven't been detailed yet, possibilities could include titles like Diablo Immortal and other games from the Candy Crush series.