Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the success of the independent game "I Play Mahjong in the Underworld," which has gained popularity by combining Mahjong mechanics with roguelike elements, similar to the game "Balatro" [1][2]. Game Overview - The game has a high approval rating of 95% on Steam, with over 1,100 positive reviews, indicating strong player satisfaction [4]. - The art style is inspired by anime, featuring 21 female characters that are gradually unlocked as players progress [6][8]. Gameplay Mechanics - Players start in a unique setting where they play Mahjong against various characters from the underworld, including well-known figures like Yama and the King of Hell [8][10]. - The game emphasizes a solo play style rather than traditional multiplayer Mahjong, allowing players to draw multiple cards and aim for high scoring combinations [15][17]. - Players can achieve multiple winning hands in a single game, with the potential for high scores reaching thousands of billions [10][20]. Learning Curve - The game provides a detailed tutorial for new players, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with Mahjong [13][22]. - Players can view card combinations and scoring options during gameplay, simplifying the learning process [24]. Progression and Customization - The game features both in-game and out-of-game progression systems, including various items and character upgrades [26][34]. - Players can choose different characters, each with unique skills, and customize their gameplay experience through item selection and deck building [36]. Development and Future Prospects - Currently in testing, the game is priced around 40-50 yuan and is available on Steam, with plans for mobile and console versions [40]. - The development team is small and relies on self-promotion, indicating a need for greater visibility and support [42].

Core Insights - Sensor Tower released the April 2025 overseas revenue and download rankings for Chinese mobile games, highlighting significant growth in the sector, particularly for miHoYo's "Honkai: Star Rail" which saw a 136% increase in overseas revenue [1][4]. Revenue Rankings - The top five games in the April overseas revenue rankings include: 1. "Whiteout Survival" by 点点互动 2. "PUBG MOBILE" by Tencent 3. "Honkai: Star Rail" by miHoYo 4. "Gossip Harbor: Merge & Story" by 柠檬微趣 5. "Call of Duty Mobile" by Activision Blizzard & Tencent [2]. Notable Game Performances - "Honkai: Star Rail" achieved its highest revenue since its first anniversary, topping the iOS revenue charts in multiple markets including China, Japan, and South Korea [1]. - "Kingshot" by 点点互动 experienced a remarkable 209% revenue increase, reaching $19 million in monthly revenue within just three months of its launch [4]. - "Dark War Survival" and "Last Z: Survival Shooter" by Florere Game saw revenue increases of 24% and 17% respectively, marking historical highs for both titles [4]. Growth Rankings - "Lands of Jail" by 益世界 saw a staggering 342% revenue increase, entering the growth rankings at 7th place, with the highest revenues coming from the US, Germany, and Turkey [6]. - "雀魂" by 悠星网络 experienced a revenue surge of nearly 600% after a collaboration with the "Fate/stay night" franchise, ranking 26th in the revenue chart [5]. Download Rankings - "Block Blast!" by Hungry Studio maintained its position as the top downloaded game, with a 5% increase in downloads [11]. - "Delta Force," the international version of Tencent's "三角洲行动," achieved over 10.6 million downloads within ten days of its release, ranking 3rd in the download chart [13]. - "Kingshot" saw a 90% increase in downloads, entering the download rankings at 9th place [13].