The long-awaited return of the Fortnite app worldwide has begun, starting with the Epic Games Store’s appearance on iOS devices in the European Union.
The return of Fortnite to iOS devices in the EU comes after years of legal battles between Epic Games and Apple. The game’s comeback is made possible by regulatory changes brought about by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires Apple to allow alternative app stores on its devices. This development opens up new possibilities for both gamers and developers in the region.
While the Fortnite app worldwide is not yet available on iOS outside the EU, this move is a massive success towards broader availability. In a blog post, Epic Games has expressed its intention to bring its games to other stores around the world, potentially paving the way for a global return of Fortnite to iOS devices in the future.
Back like we never left.
Download Fortnite via the new Epic Games Store on Android worldwide & iOS in the European Union and complete mobile Quests to unlock the Katalina Outfit ✨ https://t.co/RuZqRlegwo pic.twitter.com/ZgCXX4Pb8O
— Fortnite (@FortniteGame) August 16, 2024
The Fortnite app worldwide is back in EU
The reintroduction of Fortnite on iOS in the EU coincides with the launch of a new Marvel-themed season, giving players in the region a compelling reason to return to the game on Apple’s mobile platform. This timing could help boost the game’s popularity and player base in the EU, as both new and returning players eagerly dive into the fresh content.
In addition to Fortnite, the Epic Games Store on iOS in the EU and globally on Android will offer other titles from Epic’s portfolio. These include Rocket League Sideswipe and a mobile version of Fall Guys, which is making its debut on smartphones. This expansion of Epic’s mobile offerings demonstrates the company’s commitment to the mobile gaming market and its desire to establish a strong presence on multiple platforms.
The return of Fortnite to iOS devices in the EU is not without its challenges. Users must follow a specific process to install the Epic Games Store and subsequently download Fortnite.
This involves scanning a QR code from Epic’s website and ensuring their device is running iOS 17.6 or later. While this process may be more complicated than a simple App Store download, it represents a new way for users to access content on their iOS devices.
How to play Fortnite on iOS
The Fortnite app worldwide is now available on iOS devices, but only in the European Union. Here’s how EU users can get Fortnite on their iPhones:
- Visit fortnite.com/download on your iPhone using the Safari browser.
- Click the “Get it on iPhone” button to download the Epic Games Store.
- Your iPhone must be running iOS 17.6 or later.
- You’ll see a popup asking you to allow the Epic Games Store. Go to your iPhone’s Settings and tap “Allow Marketplace From Epic Games”.
- Return to Safari and tap “Install,” then “Install App Marketplace”.
- Once the Epic Games Store is installed, open it and select Fortnite.
- Tap “Install” to download Fortnite.
- Launch Fortnite and start playing.
Remember, this process only works for users in the European Union due to current regulations.
How to play Fortnite on Android
The Fortnite app worldwide is more readily available on Android devices:
- Go to fortnite.com/download on your Android device.
- Download the Epic Games Store app for Android.
- Once installed, open the Epic Games Store.
- Find Fortnite in the store and tap “Install”.
- After the download is complete, open Fortnite and start playing.
Android users worldwide can access Fortnite through this method, unlike the iOS version which is currently limited to the EU.
What are the Fortnite Mobile app bonus goals?
Epic Games has introduced special bonus goals for mobile app users:
- Katalina Outfit Quest: Players can unlock the Katalina Outfit and related items by completing quests on the Fortnite mobile app.
- XP-based rewards:
- Earn 25,000 XP to get the Tactical Kat Wrap
- Earn 50,000 XP to unlock the Kat Claws Pickaxe
- Earn 75,000 XP to get Katalina’s Kit Bag Back Bling
- Earn 100,000 XP to unlock the Katalina Outfit
- Availability: These quests can be completed on Android devices globally and on iPhones in the EU.
- Time frame: The bonus goals are available from now until the release of version 32.00 in November.
- Future availability: Epic has stated that these items will be available for purchase in the Shop for all Fortnite players at a later date.
These bonus goals provide an extra incentive for mobile players to engage with the game and offer exclusive rewards for those who complete the quests within the given timeframe. It’s a way for Epic to celebrate Fortnite’s return to iOS and encourage players to try the mobile version of the game.
What’s next for Epic?
Epic Games has ambitious plans for its mobile Epic Games Store. The company aims to bring over many of the features and benefits it offers on its PC platform, including an 88% revenue share for developers, free games for players, and the option for developers to use their own payment systems. These plans could make the Epic Games Store an attractive alternative for both developers and consumers in the mobile space.
However, Epic faces several hurdles in achieving its goals. Apple’s fees for apps distributed outside the App Store, including a “Core Technology Fee” for installations beyond the first million, may deter some developers from listing their apps on third-party stores. This could limit the variety of content available on the Epic Games Store and other alternative marketplaces.
Despite these challenges, Epic Games remains committed to its vision of a more open mobile app ecosystem. The company has already invested heavily in its fight against Apple’s policies and is prepared to continue its efforts to reduce barriers for both developers and players.
Featured image credit: Epic Games
