Istanbul inspires Subway Surfers’ latest update, receives backlash
Kedi and Ruhi, the new characters from Subway Surfers Istanbul, stand in front of Istanbul's colorful streets and iconic landmarks. (Photo via Subway Surfers)
Subway Surfers, the globally popular mobile game, has introduced a new update today where Istanbul inspires the latest addition to its world tour series.
This addition brings exciting new challenges and an immersive experience that showcases the vibrant culture of Türkiye.
Explore Istanbul’s famous landmarks in Subway Surfers
Players can now race through Istanbul’s iconic locations such as the Bosphorus Bridge and Sultanahmet Mosque. These well-known landmarks are woven into the gameplay, creating a fresh and exciting environment.
As SYBO Games states, “The Istanbul map brings a new dimension to the game, offering players both familiar and exotic locations to explore.”
The Istanbul update is part of the 187th world tour and the 193rd overall version of Subway Surfers. This marks the first time a Turkish city is featured in the game, making it a highly anticipated release for players, especially those from Türkiye.
Alongside the new map, the update offers fresh tasks and rewards, keeping players engaged with varied challenges that reflect Istanbul’s unique vibe.
Istanbul inspires new characters, skateboards in Subway Surfers
The update introduces two new playable characters, Kedi and Ruhi, who bring their own distinct outfits and abilities. According to the game’s developers, these characters “bring a local flavor to the game, allowing players to experience Istanbul through their eyes.”
Additionally, new skateboards like the Couch Surfer, Catalyst, and Flash of Flavor are available, providing more variety for players seeking to enhance their gameplay.
The update also includes new costumes for existing characters Zi Hao and Mala, offering more options for customization. These additions not only appeal to Turkish fans but also broaden the experience for the global audience.
Subway Surfers’ soundtrack for Istanbul sparks backlash
Despite the excitement surrounding the update, some users expressed frustration over the background music used in the game’s promotional material. Many Turkish players criticized the music for being too Middle Eastern, arguing that it didn’t reflect the cultural identity of Türkiye.
One user shared on social media, “Türkiye is not an Arab country,” while another said, “This song has nothing to do with our culture.” Many demanded the music be replaced, with one even declaring, “I deleted the app from my family’s phones because of this.”
Even though the music choice has sparked controversy, the inclusion of Istanbul in Subway Surfers remains a significant development, offering players an engaging and culturally rich experience within the game.
