Fortnite Returns to iPhones and Android Devices: Epic Games Overcomes Apple and Google Restrictions
By Supantha Mukherjee
STOCKHOLM (Multibagger) - In a groundbreaking development for mobile gaming, Fortnite, the massively popular multiplayer shooter game, is making a grand comeback on iPhones within the European Union and globally on Google's Android devices after a four-year hiatus. This significant return follows legal actions by the EU, as confirmed by developer Epic Games on Friday.
Epic Games' Historic Battle Royale: Fortnite's Triumphant Return
Fortnite, developed by U.S.-based Epic Games and financially backed by China's Tencent, launched in 2017 and quickly captivated millions with its last-player-standing "battle royale" format. However, the game was removed from Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store in August 2020 after Epic implemented a payment feature that bypassed the app store guidelines, leading to several high-profile lawsuits.
The Ban That Shook the Gaming World
When Fortnite was banned, it had a staggering 116 million users on Apple's platform alone. The removal sparked widespread debate over the app stores' policies, particularly regarding the 30% commission charged on in-app payments.
EU's Digital Markets Act: A Game Changer for Epic
Thanks to the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Epic Games has been able to relaunch its game store in the EU. Despite Apple's continued blockade of Fortnite outside Europe, the DMA has opened new avenues for competition within the bloc.
"We are immensely grateful to the European Commission for not only passing the DMA and enabling store competition but also for rigorously holding Apple and Google accountable," said Epic CEO Tim Sweeney. "Their efforts to slow us down and obstruct competition were significant, but the European Commission consistently ensured market entry for competitors."
Epic Games Store's Mobile Expansion
The revamped Epic Games Store is launching with fan favorites like Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and the all-new Fall Guys for mobile. Epic is also collaborating with other developers to offer a broader range of games and apps through its store. With a robust 75 million monthly active users on its PC platform, Epic anticipates adding 100 million new mobile users by year-end.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the games will also be available through independent mobile stores like AltStore, the installation process on iOS devices remains complex, involving a 15-step procedure, device setting adjustments, and intimidating security warnings.
Apple has stated that it aims to make these new capabilities as user-friendly as possible while maintaining high standards for privacy and security. "We probably lost over a billion dollars in revenue by losing access to the iOS customer base worldwide for four years, but what's the cost of freedom?" Sweeney remarked.
Analysis: What This Means for You and Your Finances
In simple terms, the return of Fortnite on iPhones and Android devices is a monumental shift in the mobile gaming landscape. For gamers, this means access to one of the most popular games ever, right at your fingertips. For investors, Epic Games' resurgence could signal a lucrative opportunity, as the company expands its market reach and user base.
The legal battles and subsequent changes enforced by the EU's DMA have broader implications for how digital marketplaces operate, potentially leading to more competitive and fairer environments. This could result in better choices and lower costs for consumers.
In essence, whether you are a gamer, investor, or just someone interested in the tech industry, this development is a clear indication of shifting power dynamics in digital markets, which could pave the way for more consumer-friendly practices and innovative business models.