Fortnite, the immensely popular multiplayer shooter game, is making its comeback on iPhones across the European Union and on Android devices worldwide. This revival follows nearly four years of absence due to legal disputes between developer Epic Games and tech giants Apple and Google, which began when Epic launched its own payment feature, breaching the companies’ app store guidelines.
Originally released by Epic Games, which has its roots as a US-based studio supported by China's Tencent, Fortnite swiftly gained traction after its launch in 2017. By August 2020, just before its removal from app stores, Fortnite boasted around 116 million users on Apple's platform alone.
Following the introduction of the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Epic Games announced on August 16, 2024, their ability to operate within the EU market. This legal framework has empowered Epic to launch its own game storefront within the bloc, allowing for direct competition against platforms like Apple's App Store.
Tim Sweeney, Epic's CEO, expressed gratitude toward the European Commission for their proactive stance against both Apple and Google, preventing them from obstructing market competition. “They were going to great efforts to slow us down, and tried to stop us several times, and the European Commission always stepped up,” he declared.
The new storefront features not only Fortnite but also other popular games such as Rocket League Sideswipe and Fall Guys. Epic is optimistic about its user base expansion, aiming to attract 100 million new mobile users by the year's end.
While the installation process offers these games to users, it does come with some challenges. Installing Fortnite on iOS devices now involves as many as 15 steps, which may be confusing for some users, marked by complicated settings and alarming warning messages.
Despite the excitement surrounding its return, Sweeney noted the financial toll of the four-year absence, estimating Epic lost over $1 billion from the iOS user base. He posed the poignant question, “but what's the cost of freedom?” demonstrating the firm’s commitment to maintain control over its distribution channels.
Epic’s struggles with Apple's walled garden approach highlight the growing regulatory pressures aimed at the major players of the tech industry. Alongside Spotify, Epic has become one of the leading voices advocating for more flexibility and openness for developers and consumers.
Over the years, the tensions between Epic Games and Apple escalated, particularly following Epic's decision to introduce its own payment options. This decision directly led to the removal of Fortnite from the App Store, igniting multiple lawsuits which sought to challenge the hefty commission fees charged by Apple and Google.
Fortnite's epic legal saga underscored the drastic measures tech giants will take to maintain their market control, but it also paved the way for significant changes within the industry. Regulatory advancements such as the DMA have proven to be game changers, reshaping how platforms interact with game developers and the market.
The road to reclaiming its place on mobile platforms was marked with intense legal battles and fervent public interest. Now, as Fortnite finally returns, players can rediscover the game on their mobile devices, setting the stage for Epic Games to possibly lead the charge toward greater developer freedom.
Adding to the excitement, players can once again enjoy Fortnite’s unique battle royale experience. This re-launch not only promises to rekindle old friendships and rivalries but also provides fresh opportunities for gamers around the globe.
The next chapter for Fortnite is being written as it steps back onto iPhones and Androids. This access marks both a victory for Epic Games and its users, along with reshaping the competitive dynamics within the gaming industry.
Despite the hurdles faced during the last four years, Sweeney remains optimistic, believing the return of Fortnite will offer the company fresh chances to engage with fans and attract new players. The move is expected to invigorate the gaming scene, breathing new life back onto mobile platforms.
