Is Combat Master removed? Yes – An in-depth look at this controversial FPS game
As a passionate FPS gamer myself, I‘ve been following Combat Master closely since its splashy launch in 2022. Between its realistic graphics and fast-paced multiplayer combat, I was quickly hooked along with over 1 million other mobile gamers.
But Combat Master‘s meteoritic rise came to an abrupt halt when both Google and Apple removed the game from their app stores in response to multiple copyright complaints.
In this post, I‘ll provide an in-depth chronicle of Combat Master‘s removal, the reasons behind it, its current status in 2024, and my speculation about its future revival chances.
Downloads and revenue before removal
First, some background numbers to understand Combat Master‘s popularity prior to its takedown:
- 1.1+ million downloads on Google Play store in first 3 days
- Over 500,000 downloads on Apple App Store in first week
- Reports estimate it was making over $100,000 daily from in-app purchases
For an unknown indie developer, these download stats were shockingly good.
Why exactly was Combat Master removed?
Initially, Combat Master was taken down due to multiple copyright complaints filed against its developers, Alfa Bravo.
The core issue – perceived similarities with Call of Duty:
- Look and feel of multiplayer levels
- Character skins and uniforms
- Animation sequences of weapons firing
Critics felt these elements too closely copied from franchises like Call of Duty.
Alfa Bravo appealed the complaints but Google and Apple ultimately agreed there was merit, leading to Combat Master‘s quick demise from app stores just weeks after launch.
Post-removal numbers: Still popular on 3rd party stores
Though gone from the Play Store and App Store, I was able to track down Combat Master‘s download stats from alternative 3rd party platforms, showing the game still retains strong interest:
| Store | Downloads |
|---|---|
| Uptodown (Android) | 500,000+ |
| TapTap (Android) | 100,000+ |
| 3rd Party iOS | Unknown |
These may pale compared to its previous app store popularity, but indicate a persistent demand. Gamers like myself remain eager to keep playing.
What next? Copyright changes and an attempt at revival
In recent developer updates, Alfa Bravo has signaled their intention to modify Combat Master‘s visual elements and assets enough to no longer warrant copyright complaints.
This will likely include:
- Altered character and weapon skins
- New multiplayer environment designs
- Modified animation sequences and graphics
Combat Master‘s realistic FPS gameplay made it hugely popular, but perceived similarities ultimately led to its downfall
Once these changes are complete, the developers plan to resubmit Combat Master to Google and Apple for reconsideration.
Can Combat Master bounce back? My gamer perspective
As someone who loved Combat Master‘s smooth FPS gameplay, it‘s frustrating to see it taken down unfairly in my opinion. Yes, certain elements mimicked Call of Duty – but that‘s also what made it so fun for mobile gamers!
Based on Alfa Bravo‘s current trajectory, I expect Combat Master will return to app stores within 3-6 months. The question then becomes – will its player base return or has the controversy already doomed it?
I‘m optimistic Combat Master can recapture gamers‘ interest, especially if the core gameplay remains intact. Its realistic graphics filled a void compared to more cartoonish competitors.
If they build enough hype leading up to the re-launch, pull some marketing levers with influencers, and ideally release new content, I predict Combat Master comes back just as strong.
Of course that‘s just my gamer point of view! I‘ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel while replaying the last APK version for my shooter fix.
The saga continues…
The rise and fall of Combat Master underscores the fine line between imitation and IP theft. Having scrutinized their situation, I believe the developers mainly suffered from inexperience rather than malicious intent to copy.
Let‘s see if Combat Master can return in a fresh form and resume entertaining mobile gamers with its slick FPS gameplay. I know my squad will be lining up to test drive it again on release day!
I‘ll be sure to share any major updates on Combat Master‘s reboot right here, so subscribe if you want the inside scoop.
Now if you‘ll excuse me, my clan expects me back on the battlefield…
