One of the key factors in Epic Games’ new strategy is the implementation of the Digital Markets Act by the European Union. This regulation limits the actions that big platforms can take to prevent rivals like Epic from promoting alternative options. As a result, Fortnite will soon be returning to iOS in the European Union. Additionally, the Epic Games Store will be available on Android worldwide and iOS in the European Union. These changes will benefit all developers by offering them better terms, including a store fee of 12% for payments processed by Epic and 0% on third-party payments.
Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, took to Twitter to announce the company’s plans for mobile. Sweeney stated that Epic will bring its own mobile games, including Fortnite, to other mobile stores that provide fair deals for developers. This move comes after Epic accused Apple of non-compliance with the EU’s regulations. Despite the ongoing disputes, Epic Games did clarify that it will not be ending its distribution partnership with Samsung, as initially suggested. Instead, Fortnite is being taken back to app stores in Europe.
However, Epic Games did express its disappointment with Samsung’s decision to block side-loading by default on Samsung Android devices. In response, Epic Games will be removing Fortnite and other games from the Samsung Galaxy Store. This decision also stems from public revelations in the Epic v Google lawsuit, which exposed ongoing proposals by Google to restrain competition in the Android app distribution market.
Epic Games has been a strong advocate for fair competition on iOS and Android. The company believes that progress is being made worldwide, with Europe’s Digital Markets Act, similar laws in the UK and Japan, regulatory investigations, and a recent victory in the Epic v Google litigation in the US. As operators of the Epic Games Store, Epic is committed to providing great deals for all developers. The company also pledges to support other stores that strive to offer fair deals to developers.
In line with this commitment, Epic Games has announced that its mobile games will be available on AltStore for iOS in the EU. AltStore recently complied with the Digital Markets Act in Europe. Epic Games also plans to announce support for at least two other third-party stores in the near future.
Overall, Epic Games’ new strategy for mobile game stores is driven by the company’s determination to promote fair competition and provide better deals for developers. The European Union’s regulations and ongoing disputes with major platforms have played a significant role in shaping this strategy. With the return of Fortnite to app stores in Europe and partnerships with alternative stores like AltStore, Epic Games aims to create a more inclusive and competitive gaming ecosystem for all developers and players.
