Fortnite Returns to iOS in US After Long Wait

Fortnite has triumphantly returned to the iOS App Store, at least in the US, marking perhaps the final chapter in a years-long legal battle. This development underscores a significant victory for Epic Games, as it concludes a contentious saga that began when Epic challenged Apple and Google's app store policies back in 2020.

For years, we've been hearing rumors and updates about Fortnite's imminent return to iOS, but now it's official—no more waiting, no more strings attached! This milestone comes after a prolonged legal tussle between Epic and tech giants Apple and Google, which saw Epic introducing alternative in-app purchases to sidestep the hefty 30% cut that Apple takes from transactions.

The legal battle has been a rollercoaster, with both sides experiencing wins and losses. However, the dust has settled, and it's clear that Apple and Google have emerged as the bigger losers. They've had to adjust their policies, reducing fees on in-app purchases, allowing outside links, and opening the doors to third-party storefronts.

For regular players, the immediate impact is still up in the air. Developers have been enticing users with in-app purchases made outside the official app stores, offering deals and perks. The Epic Games Store, for instance, has been known for its free game program, among other incentives.

Behind the scenes, the implications are monumental. Apple and Google have long dominated the mobile gaming app store landscape, but the Epic vs. Apple legal battle has decisively disrupted this monopoly. The big question now is whether this shift will usher in a new golden age of app stores, or if it will merely tweak the existing model.

For those interested in exploring games that aren't available on typical app stores, check out our feature, "Off the AppStore," to discover some great alternative releases.