Bloody Brexit Mess: Will Fortnite EVER Return to UK iPhones?
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Epic Games is fuming that Fortnite's UK iOS return is in jeopardy due to regulatory inaction, claiming the CMA is letting Apple and Google get away with their app store monopolies. Basically, British gamers might be stuck without mobile Fortnite for a while, and Epic's not happy about it.
Right, so the saga of Fortnite's triumphant return to iOS just took a turn for the… well, *British*. According to Eurogamer, Epic Games reckons the UK competition regulator (the CMA) is dragging its feet on opening up the mobile market, meaning Fortnite's iOS comeback across the pond is now "uncertain". Translation? Don't hold your breath, mates.
You see, after a five-year scrap with Apple over app store policies, Fortnite *did* manage to wiggle its way back onto iPhones in the US and Europe back in May. But, thanks to Brexit (yeah, *that* Brexit), the UK's playing by its own rules now. And Epic's not happy, not one bit.
In a statement that's less "polite request" and more "strongly worded wizard's curse," Epic accuses the CMA of "deprioritising store competition entirely." Ouch. They claim the regulator is essentially letting Apple and Google keep their app store monopolies intact. Epic's argument? A free market needs multiple stores competing for your hard-earned quid. And if you only have one store calling the shots, that store will rinse everyone dry – creators and consumers alike. (Sound familiar to anyone following Web3 gaming marketplaces? Just saying…).
Epic also took a swipe at the CMA's plan to allow developers to steer customers to payment services outside of apps. Apparently, Apple's already found loopholes in similar regulations in Europe, adding fees and restrictions that make it a right pain in the backside to actually use those alternative payment methods. Epic's prediction? "Years of malicious compliance" and zero actual competition.
They reckon other regions are taking stronger action to promote competition, which makes the UK situation look, well, a bit rubbish. Epic's holding out hope that the CMA will rethink its approach and bring the benefits of app store and payment competition to British gamers. Fingers crossed, eh?
Meanwhile, Fortnite's still kicking about on PC, consoles (including the mythical Switch 2, where it allegedly runs at a smooth 60fps with voice chat and mouse support!), and it's heading to Brazil and Japan later this year. So, if you're in the UK and itching for some mobile Fortnite action… maybe consider a holiday? Or, you know, petition your MP.
Fair dinkum, this whole situation smells like a right regulatory pickle. But hey, at least we can still blast each other in Fortnite on other platforms. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to brew a potion that forces regulators to listen to reason. (Don't tell anyone, but the main ingredient is goblin sweat.)
Tags: Fortnite, Epic Games, Apple, CMA, Mobile Gaming
Original article: Eurogamer