“The Epic Games Store Launches on iOS and Android Worldwide, Bringing Fortnite, Fall Guys, and Rocket League Sideswipe to Mobile Gamers”

Epic Games has made a triumphant return to iOS in the European Union and Android devices worldwide with the launch of the Epic Games Store. This is a significant moment for Epic Games, as Fortnite had been unavailable on iPhones since the company’s legal battle with Apple and Google began in 2020. The return of Fortnite on iOS in Europe and on Android is a result of the Digital Markets Act, a regulation that requires “gatekeeper platforms” to provide fair access to their stores for antitrust reasons. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney stated that the company had spent hundreds of millions of dollars on its legal battle to make this happen.

The launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android devices marks a turning point in the mobile gaming industry. It brings more competition and choice to the market, benefiting both developers and consumers. The Epic Games Store offers better financial terms for developers, with a lower revenue cut compared to Apple and Google. While Apple and Google take a 30% cut from app purchases, the Epic Games Store only takes 12.5%, leaving 88% for developers. Additionally, Epic Games allows developers to keep 100% of their revenue if they choose exclusivity on the store for the first six months after launch.

Epic Games is not only launching its store on iOS and Android but also partnering with third-party app stores to bring games to different marketplaces. One of these partnerships is with AltStore, a store that aims to bring more openness to the games industry. AltStore has faced challenges with approvals from Apple but has managed to launch as an official app store this year. The partnership with AltStore allows Epic Games to reach a wider audience and promote indie developers who have been overlooked by Apple’s strict app review process.

The launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android is not without its challenges. Apple has implemented a 15-step installation process designed to discourage users from downloading the store. This includes scare screens and dead-end screens that interrupt the installation process. Epic Games has called out Apple’s obstructionist strategy and filed complaints with regulators. Despite the challenges, Epic Games remains committed to fighting for a more open and competitive mobile gaming market.

The launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android devices is a step towards restoring competition in the mobile gaming industry. It provides an alternative to the dominant app stores and offers better financial terms for developers. With the support of regulators and the determination of companies like Epic Games, the future of the mobile gaming industry looks promising. There is hope that more developers and consumers will benefit from increased competition and choice in the market.