adminThe Angry Birds return to China is planned through a new partnership between Rovio and Kingsoft Shiyou. Kingsoft Shiyou will publish and operate the franchise in the market, with two titles included in the announced plans: a new version of Angry Birds 2 and Angry Birds Dream Blast.
Image credit: Rovio/Kingsoft Shiyou
Angry Birds return to China with two titles in development
The partnership marks the franchise’s planned comeback in China after a two-year absence. The companies say the return will involve a full-scale publishing and operations effort, rather than the release of a single game. No launch dates were provided in the announcement, so players should look for official updates before expecting either title to become available.
The new version of Angry Birds 2 is being developed with a 3D engine. It is also expected to feature dynamic level designs and a new magic system. These elements are intended to give the game a refreshed presentation while retaining its recognizable franchise identity. The announcement does not provide further details about gameplay changes or how the magic system will work.
Angry Birds Dream Blast is the second title named in the plans. The announcement does not specify whether its China release will include changes beyond those required for the local market. Players can check official game channels for information about availability, features, and release timing.
Xiaomi 17 Pro Max plans and the Mischief Maker program
Angry Birds 2 will also be pre-configured as a flagship title for the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max phone. This means the game is being positioned for the device, although the announcement does not clarify whether it will be pre-installed or provide other technical details. Device owners should consult official product information for confirmation.
Rovio and Kingsoft Shiyou are also introducing Mischief Maker, a creator program for players. It will let participants produce custom designs and artwork, with the possibility of receiving partnership opportunities. The announcement does not outline the application process or eligibility requirements, so prospective creators will need to wait for the program’s official terms.
Why the return matters for the franchise
Rovio CEO Alex Pelletier-Norman said that interest from Chinese players helped motivate the partnership. Kingsoft Shiyou vice president of publishing Liu Yi pointed to the companies’ previous collaboration and said the new effort would combine market-focused operations with fresh ways of presenting the Angry Birds brand.
The announcement follows changes to the availability of the original Angry Birds. In 2023, the game was removed from Android and renamed on iOS. Rovio said the decision was related to the game’s impact on its broader portfolio. The company’s head of Angry Birds brand strategy, Ben Mattes, also explained that classic titles could make other games in the series harder to find in search results.
For players, the Angry Birds return to China could bring both familiar games and new features, along with a way to contribute artwork through Mischief Maker. The clearest next step is to follow official announcements for release dates, local availability, and creator-program details.
