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 celebrated its 15th anniversary this year, a milestone few anticipated when the first game launched. Its success spans iOS and Android releases, merchandise, films, and even influenced a major acquisition by Sega. This interview with Ben Mattes, Rovio's Creative Officer, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the franchise's enduring appeal.

Ben Mattes's Journey at Rovio: Mattes, a game development veteran with experience at Gameloft, Ubisoft, and WB Games Montreal, has been at Rovio for nearly five years, primarily focused on Angry Birds. As Creative Officer, he ensures consistency and respect for the IP's characters, lore, and history across all products, aiming to guide the franchise's future.

The Creative Approach: Mattes describes Angry Birds' creative approach as accessible yet deep, appealing to both children and adults. Its blend of colorful visuals, engaging gameplay, and exploration of themes like inclusion and diversity has fueled memorable partnerships and projects. The challenge now is to build on this foundation while creating innovative new game experiences.

The Weight of a Legacy: Mattes acknowledges the immense responsibility of working on such an iconic franchise. Red, the Angry Birds mascot, is widely recognized as a symbol of mobile gaming. The team strives to create new experiences that resonate with both longtime and new fans, acknowledging the challenges of developing in a highly visible, feedback-driven environment.

The Future of Angry Birds: Sega's acquisition highlights the franchise's transmedia potential. Rovio is committed to expanding Angry Birds' presence across various platforms, including the upcoming Angry Birds Movie 3. The goal is to create a powerful, humorous, and heartfelt narrative that integrates seamlessly with existing games, merchandise, and community engagement.

The Secret to Success: Mattes attributes Angry Birds' success to its broad appeal – "something for everyone." The franchise has resonated with millions through diverse experiences, from early gaming memories to collectible merchandise, creating a vast and engaging fan base.

A Message to the Fans: Mattes expresses gratitude to the fans whose passion and creativity have shaped Angry Birds. The team remains committed to listening to the community and delivering new experiences that build on the core elements that have made the franchise so enduring.