The highly popular video game Fortnite is making a significant comeback, as it is now available on the Apple App Store in the United States. This marks a notable return for the game, which was removed from the platform nearly five years ago in August 2020. The removal was a result of Fortnite violating Apple's policies by implementing its own in-app payment system, which aimed to bypass the 30% commission that Apple charges on all in-app purchases.
The decision to remove Fortnite from the App Store sparked a prolonged legal battle initiated by Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite. Epic Games argued that the 30% fee imposed by Apple was unfair and accused the tech giant of monopolizing the app distribution market. This legal conflict has been a focal point in discussions around platform governance and the rights of developers.
In a recent post on social media platform X, Fortnite announced its return to the US App Store, as well as its availability on the Epic Games Store and AltStore within the European Union. The announcement hinted that players can expect to see Fortnite appearing in search results soon. Apple has yet to provide an official comment regarding this development, although the company maintains that its regulations are in place to protect user security.
Wednesday's news is perceived as a considerable victory for Epic Games, which has been engaged in a lengthy legal dispute with Apple. Joost van Dreunen, a professor specializing in games business at NYU Stern, commented, "This is a clear win for Epic Games. Epic has effectively forced open a door that Apple and others worked very hard to keep shut." He further emphasized that this moment represents a potential shift in the balance of power within the gaming industry.
The return of Fortnite to the App Store is being viewed as a pivotal moment for creators and publishers, providing them with greater leverage to challenge established distribution models. The gaming industry has historically been cautious about platform gatekeeping; however, this development signals a potential shift in how games are distributed and monetized.
Despite its recent challenges, Fortnite remains immensely popular, boasting around 400 million registered players worldwide. The game features various modes, but its online battle royale mode stands out as the most popular, allowing up to 100 players to compete against each other to be the last one standing. This unique blend of shooting and building gameplay has captivated a diverse audience, ensuring Fortnite's place as a staple in the gaming community.
With Fortnite's return to the Apple App Store, players can once again enjoy this beloved game on their devices. The legal and industry implications of this development will likely continue to unfold, making it a crucial moment in the ongoing conversation about app store policies and developer rights.
