Alto’s Adventure is finally coming to Android. Originally released just for iOS early last year, the endless runner snowboarding game will make its debut on Android devices Feb. 11 free of charge.
Alto’s costs $2.99 at the App Store, but there will be no difference as far as gameplay when purchased from Google Play. The Android version will have opt-in video ads and an in-app purchase that doubles your collected coins to substitute for an upfront price tag, The Verge reports.
“The gameplay and structure are entirely intact, so players are going to get the same experience on Android that they’re getting on iOS,” said Snowman developer Ryan Cash.
According to Cash and Ryan Holowaty of Noodlecake , Snowman’s developing partner, the reason Alto’s is free on Android is because of piracy risks. The Verge points to the example of Noodlecake’s Wayward Souls . The Studio found that only 11 percent of copies on Android devices were actually legally purchased.
Mobile gaming is heading in a cost-free direction particularly on Android devices. The majority of mobile gamers across the world, but especially in countries like China and Japan, enjoy almost all games for free, Holowaty explains in the press release . “iOS and Android are two very different ecosystems, so it’d be foolish to approach them the same way,” he adds during an interview with The Verge .
If you’re not familiar, Alto’s Adventure is a side-scrolling snowboarding game where your character jumps over obstacles while continuously moving through changing landscapes. There are various goals besides surviving the never-ending obstacle course. Rescue llamas, grind across rooftops, and perform tricks and combos to earn coins and points.
Described by its creators as an “endless snowboarding odyssey,” playing the iPhone version is stimulating yet soothing. The iPad gives Alto’s a premium Badland -esque aesthetic experience.
Look out for Alto’s in the Google Play Store Feb. 11.
