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 award. The game has been named the 2024 Apple Award winner for iPad Game of the Year, joining other acclaimed titles like Balatro+ and AFK Journey as major award recipients.
Squad Busters' initial launch was underwhelming for Supercell, a surprising outcome given the company's history and the rarity of a global launch for a new title. However, the game has since gained significant traction.
This Apple App Store Award serves as a strong validation of Supercell's decision to persevere with Squad Busters. The game's blend of battle royale and MOBA elements appears to have resonated with players, ultimately earning it the top spot for iPad games.
Other notable winners include Farlight Games' AFK Journey (iPhone Game of the Year) and Balatro+ (Apple Arcade Game of the Year).
A Comeback Story
Squad Busters' initial struggles sparked considerable discussion and speculation. Many questioned Supercell's decision to release a game that seemed to deviate from their usual formula of standalone hits. The game's combination of Supercell IPs may not have initially aligned with player expectations.
This award, however, suggests the game's quality was never in doubt. The success underscores the dedication and hard work of the Supercell team. While the debate surrounding the game's initial reception continues, this award offers a significant boost and early holiday cheer for the developers.
For a comparison of this year's releases according to the Pocket Gamer Awards, check out our rankings.