Epic Games is making a comeback on mobile devices with the launch of its own app store. The Epic Games Store is now available on Android and iOS devices within the European Union, bringing back popular titles like Fortnite, Fall Guys, and Rocket League Sideswipe. This move marks a significant step toward Epic’s goal of regaining a foothold in the mobile gaming market after its legal battle with Apple and Google.
However, accessing the Epic Games Store on mobile is not as simple as navigating the Google Play Store or App Store. Android users need to manually search for the Epic Games Store on Google or visit epic.download, which will redirect them to the official website with the installation link. For iOS users in the EU, the process involves following the same epic.download link and clicking the install button. If their devices are not configured to permit installations from new marketplaces, they will need to adjust their settings to grant permission. Epic has provided a tutorial video to guide users through the process.
This complex method is a direct result of Epic’s ongoing legal disputes with Apple and Google. The company’s decision to allow players to purchase in-game currency directly from Epic, bypassing the app stores, led to Fortnite’s removal from both platforms. While sideloading offered an alternative for Android users, iOS users faced significant challenges. This prompted Epic to file legal action against the tech giants, arguing that their control over app marketplaces constitutes an illegal monopoly. Recent court rulings in the EU have forced Apple to allow third-party app marketplaces on its platform, paving the way for Epic’s return.
Despite the complications, Epic Games is determined to establish its presence on mobile. CEO Tim Sweeney has declared that “the tide is turning” for mobile gaming, highlighting the company’s commitment to challenging the dominant app store ecosystem. The legal battles have come at a cost, however, with Sweeney revealing that Epic has lost around $1 billion in revenue due to the disputes. As Epic continues to fight for a more open mobile marketplace, its return to mobile devices marks a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of gaming.
