Smash Fest is a physics-puzzle game by Flow Games, released in December 2025, and it has already scaled to $80K+ in daily IAP revenue, according to AppMagic.
Let’s take a look at the design behind this latest success in physics puzzle space.
Proven Design
At its core, the game builds on familiar formulas seen in games like Voodoo’s Knock Ball and even Toon Blast’s minigame. Rather than reinventing the genre, it focuses on highly polished execution. Interestingly, compared to many hybrid casual puzzles, this game requires relatively little cognitive effort, making it approachable for a broader audience. Additionally, the combination of satisfying physics and destructible structures makes the gameplay immediately engaging.
Simple Progression
The game features deterministic levels, and while repeated attempts help players discover more efficient solutions, the underlying physics ensure that no two attempts play out exactly the same. Most levels appear straightforward at first, but limited balls count, variety of block types, absence of in-level boosters can make them surprisingly challenging. A pre-level booster is eventually introduced at level 23, while hard level labels help set player expectations. Despite the game’s rapid growth, it still feature no meta progression or LiveOps system.
Hybrid Monetization
The game blends both IAA and IAP monetization. The first interstitial ad does not appear until level 24, while main menu itself is delayed until level 20, allowing players to experience a smooth FTUE. RV ads are also used sparingly, with their only placement being life refills. On the IAP side, the monetization remains lightweight, with the only offer beyond standard coin packs being an ad removal purchase.
Like many breakout hits, Smash Fest has already been cloned multiple times. However, it has been unexpectedly removed from Google Play and is currently only available on the App Store, where majority of its revenue is generated anyway.
Original Post: Kavindu Priyanath-LinkedIn
