Supercell's Squad Busters Wins Apple's 2024 iPad Game of the Year Award
Despite a rocky start, Supercell's Squad Busters has achieved remarkable success, culminating in a prestigious win at the 2024 Apple App Store Awards. The game was named iPad Game of the Year, sharing the spotlight with Balatro+ (Apple Arcade Game of the Year) and AFK Journey (iPhone Game of the Year).
Squad Busters' initial launch was underwhelming for Supercell, a surprising setback given the company's history and the rarity of global launches for new titles. However, the game has since gained significant traction and popularity.
A Comeback Story
The initial struggles of Squad Busters sparked considerable discussion within the gaming industry. Many questioned Supercell's seemingly unusual misstep, especially considering their dedication to creating blockbuster hits.
This award suggests the game's inherent quality was never in doubt. The gameplay, a blend of battle royale and MOBA elements, is solid. However, the reception might have been impacted by market saturation or perhaps a lack of player appetite for a fusion of existing Supercell IPs.
The debate surrounding Squad Busters' early performance continues, but this award serves as a significant achievement for Supercell, validating their persistence and the game's eventual success. It's a well-deserved recognition of their hard work.
For a comparison, check out the Pocket Gamer Awards rankings for this year's releases.
