Epic Games has delivered good news for Fortnite players, announcing the game’s return to Android smartphones worldwide and iPhones in the European Union after a four-year absence. This development comes as part of Epic’s broader strategy to enhance its mobile gaming presence and provide better terms for developers.
Return to Mobile Platforms
Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in August 2020 after Epic launched an alternative in-app payment system that circumvented the standard 30% commission charged by these platforms. The company faced significant backlash from both tech giants, leading to a protracted legal battle over app store policies. Now, Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite will be making its comeback on iOS devices in the EU and will also be available on Android globally.In a recent blog post, Epic stated, “We are fast approaching a quantum leap in Epic’s efforts to bring our games to players on mobile devices.” The company emphasized that this move aligns with its ongoing fight to support fair competition in app stores.
New Mobile Store Strategy
As part of this initiative, Epic Games plans to introduce its own mobile games, including Fortnite, to various mobile stores that offer favorable terms for developers. The company announced that it would be ending distribution partnerships with mobile stores that do not compete fairly and serve all developers equitably.Epic Games is also leveraging new technology regulations in markets such as the EU, the UK, and Japan to offer advantageous terms to all developers. The company is set to bring its mobile games to AltStore on iOS in the EU and is expected to announce support for at least two other third-party stores soon.
Implications for Players and Developers
This announcement marks a significant shift in the mobile gaming landscape, potentially allowing Fortnite to regain its position as a leading mobile game. Players can look forward to accessing Fortnite on their devices once again, while developers may benefit from a more favorable revenue-sharing model, with Epic promising a store fee of only 12% for payments processed through its platform and 0% on third-party payments.Epic’s commitment to enhancing player access and improving conditions for developers reflects its ongoing strategy to challenge the traditional app store model and promote a more competitive environment in the gaming industry.As Fortnite prepares to return to mobile platforms, players and developers alike are eager to see how these changes will unfold and what new opportunities will arise in the ever-evolving world of mobile gaming.
