Remember when Fortnite got the boot from the App Store?
It’s been four long years, but the battle royale sensation is finally making its way back to iPhones. But hold your horses – there’s a twist to this tale that’s got gamers and tech enthusiasts buzzing.
Epic Games, the mastermind behind Fortnite, has just dropped a bombshell. They’re not just bringing Fortnite back. They’re launching their very own Epic Games Store on mobile. Talk about a power move!
But here’s the catch: this grand return is only happening in the European Union. Sorry, rest of the world – you’ll have to sit this one out for now.
Fortnite is back on iPhones in the EU through the Epic Games Store, while Android users worldwide can also access it. This move was made possible by the EU’s Digital Markets Act, but outside of Europe, Apple still restricts access, meaning Fortnite remains unavailable on iPhones in other regions.
So, what’s the deal? Why is Epic getting special treatment in Europe?
After a protracted legal battle with Apple that began in 2020, Epic Games has finally found a way to bring Fortnite back to iOS devices, but with a catch—it’s only available in Europe.
It all boils down to some fancy new rules called the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This EU law is shaking things up, forcing tech giants like Apple to loosen their iron grip on app distribution. It’s like David finally got a slingshot to take on Goliath.
Tim Sweeney, Epic’s head honcho, is over the moon about this. He’s calling it a victory for freedom and choice in the digital world. But let’s be real – this is just round one of what’s shaping up to be an epic (pun intended) showdown.
Now, don’t think for a second that Apple’s taking this lying down. They’ve thrown up some roadblocks that would make a maze designer jealous. Want to get the Epic Games Store on your iPhone?
Buckle up for a 15-step journey that’ll test your patience and maybe your sanity. Epic’s calling it a “poor-quality install experience” full of “scare screens.” Yikes.
But here’s where it gets juicy. Epic’s not just bringing Fortnite to the party. They’re also serving up Rocket League Sideswipe and Fall Guys on this new mobile store. It’s like they’re throwing a gaming fiesta, and everyone’s invited – as long as you’re in the EU and don’t mind jumping through some hoops.
Now, let’s talk numbers for a second. Epic’s got big dreams for this mobile venture. They’re aiming for a cool 100 million installs of their app store on Android and iOS devices by the end of the year. That’s a lot of zeros, folks. But with Apple and Google throwing up roadblocks left and right, it’s gonna be an uphill battle.
Also, Rocket League Sideswipe and Fall Guys will also be on AltStore PAL.
But it’s not just about the games. Epic’s offering developers a sweeter deal than Apple or Google, with better revenue-sharing terms. They’re playing the long game here, trying to woo developers over to their side of the fence.
So, what does this mean for you, the average gamer?
Well, if you’re in the EU, you’ve got options now. You can stick with the App Store or take a walk on the wild side with Epic’s new offering. For the rest of us, it’s a waiting game. Epic’s made it clear they want to bring this party worldwide, but they’ve got some battles to win first.
Are you hoping for Fortnite’s global return to iPhones, or do you think Apple’s restrictions will keep it off U.S. devices for good? How do you feel about Apple’s tight control over its app ecosystem?
Averagebeing’s Take: Fortnite’s return to iOS in the EU is a big win for Epic Games, but Apple’s continued resistance outside of Europe shows how far they’re willing to go to maintain control. Apple wants people to play games on their devices like iPhone and MacBook but is still greedy to get that App Store cut or to just overall control everything. Just give up Apple.
