Fortnite remains one of the most popular video games in the world, with a significant presence on PC, consoles, and even on mobile devices. However, Apple has now removed Fortnite from the iOS App Store because Epic Games has violated its guidelines.
Seemingly in an attempt to avoid paying Apple's 30 percent fee on in-app purchases (as well as fees associated with the Google Play Store), Epic Games has added a new in-game payment system to the mobile versions of Fortnite. This feature was not approved by Apple, and so the company ultimately decided to remove Fortnite from the App Store. In a statement to The Verge, Apple claims that Epic did this "with the express intent of violating the App Store guidelines regarding in-app payments that apply to every developer who sells digital goods or services." Apple also added that these rules are in place as a way to keep its store safe for its users.
Apple went on to point out that Epic had previously agreed to the App Store terms and guidelines. Apple is hoping to resolve the situation with Epic Games and bring Fortnite back to the iOS App Store, but it says that it will do so without creating any kind of special arrangement like the one Epic Games is currently seeking.
The introduction of this new payment system in Fortnite coincides with Epic's decision to permanently discount V-Bucks for players who use it. So instead of getting 1,000 V-Bucks for $10, players can use the new Fortnite payment system to get the same amount of V-Bucks for $7.99. This is an attempt on Epic's part to pass the savings on to the consumer instead of trying to pocket it all for itself.
Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how this develops. Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world and is played by millions of people daily. Removing Fortnite from the iOS Store will definitely upset some fans. Meanwhile, it's easy to see arguments for both sides. Epic Games has resisted app store fees in the past and seems to believe that they aren't fair, but if Apple allows Epic Games to have its own payment system in Fortnite, it would need to allow every other app to do the same. The result would be a significant loss in revenue for Apple from its App Store, so it may be possible that the company doesn't relent.
In the meantime, fans can expect Epic Games to continue releasing new Fortnite content, even with the game unavailable on the iOS App Store. Fortnite Chapter 2 Season 3 is in full swing, with players now able to drive cars and much more.
Fortnite is out now for Android, PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
Source: The Verge