Fortnite Returns to U.S. App Store | Approved After 5 Years
Edited By
Tanya Melton
Fortnite, the popular battle royale game developed by Epic Games, has made its long-awaited return to the U.S. App Store after a five-year absence. This comeback comes on the heels of a legal battle that began when Apple removed the game back in 2020 for breaching payment policies.
The Drama Unfolds
In a twist that shocked many, Epic Games won a pivotal court ruling last month, enabling the game to link out for payment without Apple charging excessive fees. The situation escalated when Epic submitted Fortnite for approval again in May. After months of waiting, Apple finally gave the thumbs up on May 22, 2025.
"It’s been 5 years already? Wow, time just flies by," one player commented, echoing the sentiments of many in the gaming community.
Epic's struggle against Apple has highlighted significant tensions. Apple removed Fortnite after Epic started allowing users to pay directly through the game's platform, bypassing Apple's in-app payment mechanism that usually takes a 30% cut.
User Reactions
Commenters weighed in on the return:
Some expressed frustration: "Where the fuck is Infinity Blade then?" referencing another game that has yet to return.
Others were more light-hearted: "Holy moly 5 years? WTF feels like a year."
Technical concerns arose as one user noted it won’t install on devices with less than 4GB of RAM.
Despite the legal disputes, many players are excited. One user remarked, "Given the scale of Fortnite that makes sense."
The Future of Epic and Apple
Now that Fortnite is back, the implications are notable. Other major app developers, including Amazon and Spotify, have begun to rework their applications to comply with the latest rules established after Epic's legal victory. This shift could lead to more robust competition in how apps operate on iOS devices.
Epic's legal endeavors are far from over, as Apple is reportedly appealing the latest court ruling. As one commenter pointed out, this drama isn’t just about Fortnite; it’s about the future of app monetization models.
Key Takeaways
✅ After five years, Epic's Fortnite returns to the App Store.
⚖️ A recent court ruling shifts power dynamics in app payments.
🔄 Major developers are updating their apps based on new payment rules.
Fortnite's return has reignited conversations around app store policies that could benefit not just Epic Games but the entire mobile gaming ecosystem.
What Lies Ahead for Epic and the Gaming World
There's a strong chance that this victory for Epic Games will spark a trend among other game developers. With Apple appealing the recent court ruling, expectations are high that further negotiations will occur. Experts estimate around 70% of major developers might begin shifting their payment structures in a way that mirrors Epic's strategy, allowing for more direct transactions with consumers. This could enhance revenue for developers like Spotify and Amazon as they navigate the newly established guidelines. Additionally, the ripple effect may lead to an influx of indie developers entering the market, willing to bypass traditional app store constraints, fostering a diverse app ecosystem.
A Fresh Take from the Past
Reflecting on the current dynamics, one might draw an intriguing parallel with the music industry in the early 2000s. Back then, artists were challenged by how recording companies controlled distribution and revenue. Just like Epic attempting to reshape app monetization, musicians took to platforms like SoundCloud and Bandcamp to connect directly with fans. This upheaval ultimately transformed the industry, giving birth to now-famous independent artists who thrived outside the traditional music establishment. The landscape of gaming could similarly shift as developers find ways to innovate and directly engage with players, bypassing traditional constraints put forth by major platforms.