With the recent launch of the Epic Games Store on Android, a significant shift is on the horizon for Rocket League Sideswipe players. The popular mobile game will no longer be available on the Play Store globally and will instead be exclusively accessible through sideloading.
A New Era for Rocket League Sideswipe
Rocket League Sideswipe made its debut on Android and iOS app stores towards the end of 2021, bringing the competitive spirit of the original Rocket League title to mobile devices. Despite not being a full port of the PC and console version, the game has garnered a dedicated fan base and has seen numerous updates and content additions, gearing up for Season 17.
However, Android users will need to adjust their gameplay routine as Rocket League Sideswipe bids farewell to the Play Store on August 23. This move is part of the game’s transition to the newly-launched Epic Games Store, where it will be the exclusive platform for accessing the game going forward. Players who currently have the game downloaded from the Play Store will be required to delete it and reinstall it from the Epic Games Store to continue playing online and receive updates.
Starting August 23, if you have Sideswipe downloaded through the Google Play Store, you will need to delete it from your device and redownload it from the Epic Games Store in order to play online and update the game.
Regional Differences in Availability
While users in the US and many other regions will not see any changes on iOS, Rocket League Sideswipe will be removed from the App Store in the European Union and transitioned to the Epic Games Store due to the availability of sideloading in that region. Unlike Fortnite, which is not globally available on the App Store or Play Store, Rocket League Sideswipe will still be accessible on the App Store in many regions, but not on the Play Store.
Epic Games Store's Broader Impact
The introduction of the Epic Games Store for mobile devices also brings the arrival of Fall Guys, a popular game now exclusively available on Android and iOS through the Epic Games Store. This move signifies a broader strategy by Epic Games to consolidate its mobile gaming offerings under one roof, providing a streamlined experience for gamers across different titles.
As Rocket League Sideswipe transitions to this new platform, players can expect continued support and updates, ensuring that their competitive edge remains sharp. The move may require some initial adjustments, but it promises a unified and enhanced gaming experience through the Epic Games Store.