Fortnite, the free-to-play online battle royale sensation developed by Epic Games, returns. Apple is now offering it for download once again to gamers on its tool. This development marks a significant moment for both the game and its community after a three-year absence stemming from a dispute over Apple’s policies.
First pulled from the App Store in August 2020, Fortnite was booted off for going against Apple’s rules regarding third-party payment systems. The game’s developer, Epic Games, introduced its own in-app payment system, which directly bypassed Apple’s established commission structure. Apple’s policies required a 30% commission on all in-app purchases, a move that led to a legal battle between the two companies and ultimately resulted in Fortnite’s removal.
Fortnite retains players through the compelling online battle royale component. As many as 100 of these fighters go head-to-head in an action packed free-for-all, with only one emerging as the Champion Royale. That gameplay hook has helped make it one of the most popular games of all time and foster a hugely engaged player base. A lot of fans were understandably bummed out when the game did not launch on the Apple platform. Now, they’re looking for different kinds of gaming experiences.
Last January, Fortnite jumped back onto the EU app store after a four-year haija. When its return to the airwaves was announced, excitement spread among its fans throughout the state. In large part thanks to new legislation that made creating this comeback possible by fostering competition in digital markets. As a result, app store policies are being revised throughout the region. Most recently, Fortnite scored a huge victory in its return to the US Apple App Store. This moment is an exciting key moment for advocates and drivers across North America.
Fortnite’s return to Apple’s platform would represent an unprecedented shift in the future of mobile gaming. It has been hugely influential in shaping app store policies. Epic Games’ return could not be more timely with the current discourse surrounding regulations on digital marketplaces, particularly issues of fair competition and payment systems.