Fortnite has reemerged on iOS just over four years after it was removed from the iOS App Store. The game is now available in the EU, launching through a new iPhone version of the Epic Games Store and the AltStore PAL, which is a third-party app store. Simultaneously, the Epic Games Store is also being rolled out for Android users globally.
This launch comes after extensive legal battles between Epic and Apple, which were influenced by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act that compelled Apple to allow alternative app stores. Epic has plans to extend its gaming offerings to Aptoide’s iOS store in the EU and the ONE Store for Android, expressing intentions to expand its games to additional stores worldwide in the future.
Tim Sweeney, founder and CEO of Epic Games, shared his excitement about the return of Fortnite to iOS in Europe, emphasizing gratitude for the new DMA law.
However, there is a stipulation to the launch: users need to scan a QR code from Epic’s website to initiate the installation of the Epic Games Store, but they must update their devices to iOS 17.6 or later to proceed. This requirement contradicts Epic’s FAQ, which indicates compatibility with iOS 17.4 or higher.
The timing of this launch coincides with a new season themed around Marvel, providing EU gamers with a compelling reason to return to the game. Sweeney noted that Epic expects no issues with updating Fortnite simultaneously on a global scale. Alongside Fortnite, European iPhone users and Android players worldwide can also access Epic’s Rocket League Sideswipe and the new mobile version of Fall Guys through the Epic Games Store and AltStore PAL.
Apple representative Fred Sainz commented that the Digital Markets Act necessitated new features for developers in the EU, aiming for a user-friendly approach while ensuring privacy and security.
Currently, the Epic Games Store on mobile hosts three first-party games, but Epic is actively engaging with third-party mobile developers. Steve Allison, VP and GM of the Epic Games Store, mentioned plans for a curated selection of third-party games on the mobile store by December, with self-publishing options expected in early 2025. Epic is committed to replicating its PC offerings, including an 88 percent revenue share for developers and the flexibility for them to use their payment systems. The goal is to achieve 100 million new mobile installs of the Epic Games Store by year’s end, although challenges in Apple’s third-party installation process could hinder this objective.
For success, Epic will need to entice developers despite Apple’s fees for exiting the App Store. Developers listing their apps on a third-party store face a yearly “Core Technology Fee” of €0.50 for each installation beyond the first million, which could rise significantly for successful apps. Sweeney pointed out that this structure discourages established developers from exploring competing stores.
Apple introduced additional fees recently, increasing concerns among developers. Allison remarked on the challenges these fees pose to the viability of alternatives to the App Store.
Despite the difficulties, Epic believes the challenges are surmountable. Historical revenue data indicates that Fortnite generated over $700 million in its last two years on iOS before its removal. Although the audience for Fortnite may initially be smaller on EU-only platforms, Epic will benefit from receiving the full revenue from in-app purchases rather than contributing to Apple’s 30 percent cut. While some revenue will offset Apple’s fees, Epic’s scale allows it to absorb those costs. Future regulatory adjustments or shifts in competitive pressures may favor Epic as a significant player in emerging markets for third-party app stores.
Nonetheless, many third-party developers remain cautious. Allison stated that while there is enthusiasm for the Epic Games Store on Android from numerous leading mobile developers, nearly all have expressed difficulties in navigating the iOS landscape.
Recognizing the long journey ahead, Sweeney indicated that Epic has invested heavily in its legal combats with Apple. Allison acknowledged ongoing obstacles for both players and developers, but he reaffirmed the company’s commitment to progressing and overcoming these challenges, expressing optimism that improvements may happen in the near future.