Angry Birds\' creative officer Ben Mattes gives a glance behind the scenes for the series 15th birthday

Rovio's Creative Officer, Ben Mattes, reflects on 15 years of Angry Birds

Angry Birds, the iconic mobile gaming franchise, celebrated its 15th anniversary this year. To gain insight into its enduring success, we spoke with Rovio's Creative Officer, Ben Mattes. Mattes, a veteran game developer with experience at Gameloft, Ubisoft, and WB Games Montreal, has been instrumental in shaping Angry Birds' future.

Fifteen years ago, few predicted the phenomenal success of Angry Birds. From its initial iOS and Android releases to merchandise, films, and its role in Rovio's growth (and subsequent acquisition by Sega), the franchise has become a global phenomenon. Mattes credits Angry Birds' lasting appeal to its unique blend of accessibility and depth. The colorful and cute characters tackle serious themes like inclusion and gender diversity, appealing to both children and adults.

Mattes acknowledges the pressure of working on such a beloved franchise, particularly in today's environment of live service games, content platforms, and social media. This "building in the open" approach, while challenging, allows for immediate community feedback, shaping the development process.

Looking ahead, Mattes emphasizes Rovio's commitment to expanding the Angry Birds universe across various platforms. This includes the highly anticipated Angry Birds Movie 3, which promises a powerful, hilarious, and heartfelt story. Collaboration with producer John Cohen ensures the film aligns seamlessly with other Angry Birds projects.

The secret to Angry Birds' success, Mattes suggests, lies in its broad appeal. It offers something for everyone, from the first-time gamer to the seasoned collector. The countless fan stories, artwork, and theories demonstrate the deep connection fans have with the characters and world.

Mattes concludes with a heartfelt message to the fans, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and promising exciting new projects that will resonate with longtime and new fans alike. The future of Angry Birds looks bright, fueled by its rich history and the continued dedication of its creative team.