So, it looks like paper-io.com is now permanently redirecting users to the mobile app. This is most likely because Voodoo is losing ad revenue thanks to ad blockers on the web. By pushing everyone to the mobile app, they can control the ads better and make more money. It’s very frustrating for the many .IO community members who prefer the web version.

Impact on Paper2Hack

This redirection has a direct impact on the paper2hack code project. Since paper2hack relies on the web version of Paper.io, the permanent redirection to the mobile app means that the project can no longer function as intended. Users who attempt to use paper2hack will be unable to access the game through the web, rendering the project obsolete in its current form.

Clones and Alternatives

While there are several clones of Paper.io, such as paperio.site, these alternatives lack many features and are built off of older versions of the game. These clones do not provide the same experience as the original paper-io.com, and they may not be compatible with paper2hack.

Effects on Community

The redirection to the mobile app is detrimental to players and the community as a whole. Many players prefer the web version for its accessibility and ease of use. By forcing users to switch to the mobile app, Voodoo is alienating a significant portion of their player base. This move disrupts the community that has formed around the web version and limits the ways in which players can enjoy the game.

Paper.io on Steam

Another concerning aspect is that Paper.io is now available on Steam for $4.99, published by QubicGames instead of Voodoo. It is scummy for Voodoo to get rid of the website, redirect users to the mobile app, and then secretly offer a paid desktop version using a different codebase and publisher. Additionally, all cosmetics are paid DLCs on Steam, which is a huge change from before. To get the “complete edition,” players must pay $8.07. This is particularly unfair to the many children who play this game and cannot afford to spend money on it. Voodoo has also done this with other games, such as Hole.io, in the exact same manner.

Future of Paper2Hack

Given the current situation, I am uncertain about the future of paper2hack. One potential solution I am considering is hosting an instance of paper.io on my own domain, pablogracia.net, with paper2hack built-in. This would allow users to continue enjoying the game with the enhancements provided by paper2hack, without being affected by the redirection to the mobile app.