At long last, Epic Games is bringing its digital storefront to leading mobile platforms: iOS and Android. The rollout, promised by the end of this year, marks the return of its popular metaverse-like free-to-play title, Fortnite, to both platforms, alongside several other third-party titles.
Epic’s decision to bring Epic Games Store to mobile devices comes after years of legal battles with major platform gatekeepers like Apple and Google. The conflicts stemmed from disputes over app store policies, particularly around payment processing and the distribution of apps.
Epic made the announcement during GDC 2024, where it outlined its vision for a mobile gaming future that emphasizes fair terms for developers and an expansive library of games for players.
We’re coming to iOS and Android!
Same fair terms, available to all developers, on a true multi-platform store – with amazing games for everyone. pic.twitter.com/TUKlF8PI8A
— Epic Games Store (@EpicGames) March 20, 2024
On the technical side, the Epic Games Store on mobile will offer developers a favorable 88/12 percent revenue split, a significant drop from the traditional 30 percent taken by existing app stores. Furthermore, developers using their payment processing services for in-app purchases will be able to retain 100 percent of the revenue generated. This approach challenges the current app store model and it aligns with Epic’s ongoing efforts to promote a more developer-friendly ecosystem.
The planned launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android is noteworthy for the millions of Fortnite fans. It’s likely to make a comeback either simultaneously with the store’s launch or shortly thereafter. This return is eagerly awaited by mobile gamers who have missed out on the Fortnite experience on their devices.
Epic has the Digital Markets Act in Europe to thank for its return. This recent legislative development paved the way for alternative app stores and challenge the dominance of established players. The company’s goal is to establish the Epic Games Store as the first game-focused, multi-platform marketplace, driven by fair terms for all developers and a rich selection of games for players.
The mobile version of the Epic Games Store promises to feature an intuitive interface, regular updates, and exclusive deals, enhancing the gaming experience on the go. The store’s “true multi-platform” nature means that gamers can seamlessly transition from one device to another, offering a more flexible and convenient gaming experience. But how exactly it will look like and how it will work once the public has their hands on it remains to be seen.
