After a four-year hiatus, Fortnite mobile is making a return, although, not without certain limitations. As of today, players in the European Union can once again play Fortnite on their iPhones, while Android users worldwide also have access to the game.
This move is largely credited to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has forced tech giants like Apple to allow third-party app stores on their devices. This relaunch coincides with the ‘Absolute Doom!‘ event which is themed around Marvel superheroes and villains.
Fortnite Mobile is Back After 4 Years Since Its Removal
Fortnite was pulled from Apple’s App Store in 2020 after a dispute between Epic Games and Apple over payment processes. Epic bypassed Apple’s 30% cut by allowing direct purchases within the game, which led to the game’s removal and a subsequent legal battle.
This relaunch marks the end of a long battle between Epic Games and mobile platform giants, which began in 2020 when Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their stores following Epic’s decision to bypass their payment systems.
Epic Games is using the return of the game to iPhones in Europe as an opportunity to entice players with exclusive in-game cosmetics. For those who download and play Fortnite on mobile, there are special quests with rewards like the Katalina skin and other items from the Feline Fandom set.
The new Marvel-themed season in Fortnite adds extra excitement to the mobile relaunch. This season features iconic Marvel characters like Doctor Doom, Captain America, and Mysterio, with Doctor Doom’s Latverian domain now occupying a part of the Battle Royale Island.
The Road Has Not Been Easy For It’s Return
Epic Games’ CEO Tim Sweeney has been vocal about the challenges the company has faced in relaunching Fortnite on mobile devices. He credits the European Commission for passing the DMA, which has been pivotal in enabling this relaunch.
Downloading and launching the Epic Games Store on mobile devices isn’t very straightforward. Epic has criticized Apple and Google for making the installation process cumbersome, describing it as a “lengthy” 15-step ordeal filled with “scare screens” and confusing settings.
While the return of Fortnite to iPhones in the EU is a significant victory for Epic Games, the battle is far from over. Epic continues to challenge Apple and Google, aiming to further dismantle what it views as anti-competitive practices.
With the backing of new regulations in the EU, the company has managed to reintroduce its flagship game to a new player base, while also laying the groundwork for future expansions.
Will you be hopping back into the Battle Bus on mobile? Let us know in the comments!
