Squad Busters, developed by Supercell, has clinched the prestigious 2024 Apple Award for iPad Game of the Year. This accolade places it in esteemed company alongside Balatro+ and AFK Journey, which also secured significant awards. Despite a rocky start, Squad Busters has impressively regained its footing and risen to prominence within the gaming community.

Supercell's launch of Squad Busters was initially underwhelming, which came as a surprise given their track record of selectively releasing globally successful titles. The Finnish mobile gaming giant is known for being highly selective, often canceling projects that don't meet their high standards. However, Squad Busters' journey from a lackluster debut to earning the iPad Game of the Year award showcases its resilience and the quality of its content.

In the same awards ceremony, AFK Journey by Farlight Games was honored with the iPhone Game of the Year, while Balatro+ rightfully received the Apple Arcade Game of the Year. This recognition solidifies Squad Busters' position among top-tier mobile games.

The initial stumble of Squad Busters sparked discussions and interest across the mobile gaming industry. Many wondered how Supercell could release a game that didn't immediately capture the market, especially after their rigorous process of finding the next big hit. However, this award suggests that the game's content was not the issue. Having played it, I found Squad Busters to be a compelling blend of battle royale and MOBA elements. Perhaps the mix of Supercell's various IPs didn't initially resonate with players, but it has clearly found its audience over time.

This recognition serves as an early holiday gift for the Supercell team, validating their efforts and dedication. While the conversation around Squad Busters' launch and subsequent success may continue, this award is a testament to the game's quality and appeal.

For those interested in how other games have fared this year, you can explore the rankings from our Pocket Gamer Awards to get a broader perspective on the mobile gaming landscape.