Following the legal battles and restrictions between Apple, Google, and Epic Games back in 2021, I gave up hope of seeing Fortnite back in the Play and App stores. Sure, my phone wasn’t even up to the standards for running the game. But it was nice knowing that I could get it at any time. These days, there aren’t a lot of interesting Battle Royale games to kill time in.
Luckily, Epic Games has made it clear that they’re not backing down without another fight. They’ve recently made their store downloadable on mobile devices, specifically for iPhones in the European Union (EU) and Android devices worldwide. Now, you can see Fortnite, Fall Guys, and Rocket League Sideswipe.
Epic Games Store opens up to iOS users in Europe
The EU, through the Digital Markets Act (DMA), continues to take a firm stance against Apple. In case you’re not all caught up, this law is set up to stop big tech companies like Apple from using their power to block competitors. Because of it, Epic could get around Apple’s usual blockades and bring its store to the iPhone’s closed ecosystem. It could even mean Google housing more third-party stores in the future.
The tide is turning and the mobile ecosystem is finally opening up to competition. We are grateful to the European Commission for making it possible to launch the Epic Games Store and offer our games to iOS users in the European Union. Now European iOS users and all Android users can access our store and games, as they’ve always been able to do on open platforms like PC and Mac. The fight is far from over, but this is tangible progress for developers and consumers who can begin to benefit from competition and choice.
Tim Sweeney, CEO and Founder of Epic Games.
Here’s how you can get the Epic Games Store
Getting to the Epic Games store isn’t as simple as going to your device’s store. You still need to visit the official website and download it. Of course, you’ll get a pop-up warning that the app you’re trying to download is harmful. But Epic says not to panic because their app is “safe.”
If you own an Android, you’ve always been able to do this. But if you didn’t know, you can install the marketplace regardless of where you are in the world. If you own an iPhone, downloading the app only works in Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Spain, and other European countries. If you try it outside those regions, it won’t work.
Epic Games is teaming up with different app stores to get its games onto more platforms. Right now, it’s starting by launching its games on AltStore PAL for iOS users. AltStore PAL is a third-party app store that allows users to install apps without going through the traditional Apple App Store. It also plans to add its games to Aptoide’s iOS store and ONE Store for Android.
Fortnite is a massive online game where you build, fight, and survive. Fall Guys lets you compete in chaotic obstacle courses. Rocket League Sideswipe will have you playing soccer with cars. All three games and more are free on the Epic Games Store.
