Squad Busters Wins iPad Game of the Year at 2024 Apple Awards

Squad Busters, developed by Supercell, clinched the prestigious 2024 Apple Award for iPad Game of the Year, showcasing its resilience and appeal in the gaming community. Despite a rocky start, the game has impressively regained its footing, now standing alongside other award-winning titles like Balatro+ and AFK Journey, which received accolades for Apple Arcade Game of the Year and iPhone Game of the Year, respectively.

Supercell's Squad Busters had a less-than-stellar launch, which was surprising given the company's track record of carefully curating their global releases. The Finnish mobile gaming giant, known for its selective approach, had previously canceled many projects before greenlighting Squad Busters for a worldwide debut. Yet, the game's initial reception was underwhelming, sparking discussions and concerns across the mobile gaming industry.

However, the narrative has shifted as Squad Busters has not only stabilized but thrived, culminating in its recognition by the Apple App Store Awards. This accolade is a testament to the game's quality and Supercell's commitment to excellence. The game blends elements of battle royale and MOBA genres, offering a unique experience that, despite early skepticism, has resonated with players and critics alike.

AFK Journey, developed by Farlight Games, also celebrated success by winning the iPhone Game of the Year award, while Balatro+ secured the title of Apple Arcade Game of the Year. These awards highlight the diversity and high caliber of mobile gaming in 2024, with Squad Busters proudly holding its ground among such esteemed company.

The initial stumble of Squad Busters sparked widespread interest and debate within the gaming community. Many questioned how Supercell, a studio known for its meticulous approach to game development, could launch a game that didn't immediately capture the market. Yet, the game's content, which I found to be a compelling mix of genres, suggests that the issue may not have been with the game itself but perhaps with the timing or market expectations.

This award serves as an early Christmas gift for the Supercell team, affirming their dedication and hard work. While the conversation around Squad Busters and its launch may continue, this recognition from Apple is a significant milestone that validates the game's quality and potential.

For those interested in more insights into the year's gaming achievements, you can explore the rankings from our own Pocket Gamer Awards to see how other releases have fared.