Block Blast code raises questions about ad-driven game design

A developer known as Ayoships says they reverse-engineered the code of Block Blast, a puzzle game by Hungry Games, and found mechanisms that may influence difficulty, scores and decisions to watch ads. TechRadar reports that the free-to-download game earned close to $127 million from advertising in the five months from January through May 2026.

According to Ayoships’ interpretation, the code assesses players using information such as smartphone models, locations and past ad interactions. These signals could help estimate a player’s purchasing power or advertising value. The report says owners of more expensive phones may be treated as more commercially valuable, though it does not establish how often this happens or whether all players are affected.

The developer describes one alleged sequence as “Boost then kill”: a round becomes easier before difficulty rises. The investigation also says the game can make a round exceptionally difficult, prompting players to watch an ad for another attempt. Code references include “reward,” “bait” and “moreCleanSuccessRound,” which Ayoships reportedly interprets as an easier round intended to build confidence.

These claims have not been independently verified in the source report. The findings do not show whether the alleged adjustments are triggered by advertising opportunities or other software conditions. Ayoships develops AI-powered mobile apps, and the report says independent verification is important when evaluating the code analysis. The case raises questions about how ad revenue may shape game progression, but the available account does not establish the extent of any alleged manipulation.