Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite on iOS is set to return, alongside a major update to its player rewards system. As the game prepares for its hardfaught return to the Apple ecosystem, the publisher has announced a 20% increase in Epic rewards for Fortnite to celebrate.
The decision comes after a legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple that began in 2020, when Fortnite was removed from the App Store. The removal was a direct result of Epic implementing an alternate payment method within the Fortnite app, bypassing Apple’s mandatory in-app purchase system and its 30% commission fee.
Although the court ultimately ruled in Apple’s favor on several points, Epic Games secured a key victory: Apple was ordered to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment options. This ruling created a legal path for the return of Fortnite on iOS, along with the eventual introduction of the Epic Store on iOS.
Fortnite on iOS is Getting Some Goodies
As part of its return strategy, Epic Games is rolling out some Epic rewards for Fortnite across all platforms. Starting this month, players will receive 20% back in rewards on eligible purchases made using Epic’s payment system. This applies not only on PC and Android, where Epic has full control, but also now includes iOS by the newly approved storefront.
Epic confirmed that Fortnite on iOS will initially launch in Europe, with plans to expand to other regions depending on the reception and performance of the new storefront. This re-entry into iOS does not come without risk. Epic will need to overcome potential friction from unfamiliar users. Epic also clarified that the rewards update is not temporary.
At the time of writing, there is no official release date for Fortnite’s U.S. return on iOS, though Epic has confirmed that submissions are already in progress. Updates are expected in the coming weeks, with European markets likely to see first access.
As Fortnite prepares to relaunch on iOS, players can look forward to getting something out of it. Epic Games may be the first domino in a more open, competitive, and fair mobile gaming environment.
