Epic Games has successfully relaunched “Fortnite” in Europe on Apple devices and globally on Android platforms after a series of legal battles with Apple. By garnering support for the Digital Markets Act from EU regulators, the video game company has been able to resume operations of its digital Epic Games Store on iOS in the European Union. However, Apple continues to block access to users outside of the EU.
Ambitious Download Goals
Epic Games is aiming for 100 million downloads through the Epic Games Store by the end of the year. The store will feature Epic titles such as “Fortnite,” “Rocket League Sideswipe,” and the new game “Fall Guys” for mobile on iOS and Android. Additionally, third-party stories that offer side-loading of apps, including AltStore, will be available.
Epic has provided detailed instructions on how to download games via the Epic Games Store on both iOS and Android through blog posts published alongside the announcement on Friday.
Challenges and Criticisms
In response to the relaunch, Epic stated, “For now, the process of installing the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android is lengthy due to Apple and Google introducing intentionally poor-quality install experiences laden by multiple steps, confusing device settings, and scare screens. We are continuing to fight in courts and work with regulators around the globe to eliminate the anticompetitive terms that Apple and Google impose on developers and consumers, so we can build a better store for everyone.”
Apple, on the other hand, mentioned in a statement to Variety that the Digital Markets Act required them to enable new capabilities for developers in the EU while ensuring user privacy and security.
CEO's Perspective
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney expressed gratitude towards the European Commission for enabling the launch of the Epic Games Store in the EU and offering games to iOS users. Sweeney emphasized the importance of competition and choice for developers and consumers in the digital and gaming industry.
During a press conference, Sweeney highlighted concerns about Apple and Google’s “anticompetitive” practices and their impact on the consumer experience. He stressed the need for more competition in the mobile ecosystem to drive innovation and benefit users.
