Draft:Snake.io

Snake.io is a multiplayer mobile and web-based game inspired by the classic Snake game. It was released in 2016 by Kooapps and available for App Store, Google Play Store, Apple Watch (runs on WatchOS 3.0 or later), Apple TV, Apple Arcade, Amazon, and Web. The player controls a snake that grows longer and bigger by eating pellets on the arena. The goal of the game is to grow as large as possible without colliding with other snakes or the boundaries of the arena.

Gameplay
In Snake.io, players control a snake that grows longer by consuming glowing pellets scattered throughout the game arena. The game starts with a small snake, and players use touch or mouse controls to navigate it. The snake continuously moves forward, and players steer it by dragging their finger on the screen or moving the mouse, adjusting its direction to consume pellets while avoiding other snakes. As the snake eats pellets, it increases in length, making it more challenging to maneuver without colliding with itself or other snakes. If the player’s snake crashes into another snake, it disintegrates, leaving behind a trail of pellets for other snakes to consume. In multiplayer mode, players compete in real-time to become the longest snake, employing strategies like encircling opponents to force them into collisions or swiftly changing directions to evade traps.

Skins and Accessories
Players can personalize their gaming experience by selecting from a wide variety of skins and accessories for their snake. Skins range from simple designs to intricate designs featuring patterns, animals, or sometimes inspired by famous characters. Some skins are only available for a limited time during monthly live events.

Accessories like hats, capes, armors, and wings can add another layer of personalization on their snake. These accessories can be unlocked by spending in-game coins and diamonds.

Reception
Snake.io offers a different experience to players through its modern features and in-game live events. According to Gearburn "While the actual UI of the game is extremely simple, it makes up for this with its satisfyingly competitive gameplay. There's even a scoreboard, so you can visibly overtake other players, which adds to the fun." undefinedNaijaknowhow Media also stated that "Snake.io combines new trendy art with the oldest classic snake game mechanics.” Skins were also well-received as Mobvista stated that in-game skins are one of Snake.io key feature allowing players to choose a different appearance. Snake.io has also contributed to advancements in Neuralink's research, as it was played by their first recipient, Noland Arbaugh. Noland controlled the snake using only his brain and mentioned that the game was challenging, given that his mind served as the cursor.

Awards
Snake.io was nominated at Level Up! KL 2023 for two award categories: Best Technology and Audience Choice Award. Snake.io+ the Apple Arcade version that Kooapps released in May 2023 was also recognized by Apple as one of their top apps and games on the app store for 2023. Additionally, Snake.io+ is featured as one of the best Apple Arcade games by Cult of Mac.

Collaborations
Snake.io has also collaborated with popular games like Among Us and Fall Guys. The Among Us collaboration featured an event called "Snakes Among Us," while the Fall Guys collaboration was titled "Fall Guys x Snake.io." These events introduced skins inspired by these games, allowing players to unlock special skins and enjoy a crossover experience, enhancing the game's appeal and variety.