Fortnite has made a triumphant return to the iOS App Store in the US, signaling what could be the final chapter in a years-long legal saga. This development marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and tech giants Apple and Google, which began back in 2020 when Epic introduced alternative in-app purchasing options, bypassing the App Store's 30% transaction fee.
The news of Fortnite's return to iOS has been eagerly awaited, with previous announcements often hinting at an imminent release. This time, however, there's no ambiguity—Fortnite is officially available on iOS in the US, free from any legal strings. This move not only represents a major turning point for Epic Games but also underscores the impact of their legal battle with Apple.
The legal tussle between Epic, Apple, and Google has been a rollercoaster, characterized by intermittent victories and setbacks for all parties involved. Yet, as the dust settles, it's clear that Apple and Google have emerged as the primary losers, forced to abandon many of their in-app purchase fees, revise policies on external links, and permit third-party app stores.
For everyday gamers, the implications of these changes remain uncertain. Developers have increasingly offered incentives for purchases made outside official app stores, while platforms like the Epic Games Store have enticed users with promotions such as their renowned free game program.
Behind the scenes, the Epic vs. Apple legal battle has significantly disrupted the status quo of mobile gaming, challenging the long-standing dominance of Apple and Google over app distribution. The question now is whether this shift will usher in a new era of diverse app stores or if it will merely result in minor adjustments to business as usual.
For those interested in exploring games not typically found on mainstream app stores, be sure to check out our feature, "Off the AppStore," for a curated selection of alternative releases.
