This press release really deserves a huge asterisk. Yes, the Epic Games Store is launching on mobile, but it’s only available in the European Union for iOS users, while you Android nuts can access it worldwide. However, it’s not as easy as visiting the App Store or Google Play Store.
As you know, Epic Games has been feuding with Apple and Google over the restrictions the latter imposed on the former. The results were mixed, with millions of players being deprived of Fortnite on their mobile devices. After the dust from the legal battle settled, the EU passed the Direct Markets Act, and through this law, Epic is ready to return to mobile (the UK also passed a similar law called the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill earlier this year, and Epic plans to return to mobile in the UK in 2025).
To install the Epic Games Store, you will need to visit https://epic.download from your device’s browser. You’re essentially downloading the app onto your mobile device, and Epic has provided a video to walk users through the process. Once the installation is complete, you’ll be able to enjoy Fortnite and more on your mobile devices again!
In addition to the battle royale title, other popular free-to-play titles from Epic will also be coming to mobile. Rocket League Sideswipe and Fall Guys are the apps featured prominently in this new mobile version of the Epic Games Store. It seems like it doesn’t offer the full breadth of the Epic Games Store that you see on PC (you can’t redeem the free games in this mobile version).
Epic also reiterated that their launcher will be coming to alternative app stores like AltStore and Aptoide. While the installation isn’t that difficult, I’m sure many less tech-savvy adults will struggle to install the app so their kids can play Fortnite on their phones again.
Let’s hope that one day this launcher will be available natively on the iOS App Store and Google Play. I’m sure it will take a while for the wounds to heal, but at least it’s a start.
