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May 21, 2025 — United States
Epic Games’ globally popular video game Fortnite has officially made its return to the Apple App Store in the United States, marking the close of a five-year absence. The game was available to download for iPhones and iPads from May 20, 2025.
The long-awaited return comes after an extended legal battle that raged between Epic Games and Apple that started in August of 2020. Epic created its own payment system in-app, which snubbed Apple’s 30 percent commission. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from its App Store. The result was the public relations war as well as a legal battle. The primary issues involved antitrust, platform control, and fairness in the online market.
The latest developments are a result of a ruling by a U.S. appeals court. The court ruled that Apple did not comply with an order requiring third-party payment. As a result, Apple is now required by the new regulations to permit greater competition in the digital economy.
Recognizing the opportunity quickly, Epic Games released a new version of Fortnite that includes both Apple’s standard in-app purchasing method and Epic’s unique payment option. Consequently, players gain more flexibility and incentives. Furthermore, those who choose Epic’s payment method are eligible for a 20% bonus in in-game currency.
Not only has Fortnite made an acclaim-grabbing return, but it has also unveiled a new Star Wars-themed season to attract both longtime and new players. Moreover, this timing coincides with growing excitement for mobile gaming and increasing pressure on app marketplaces to become more open and user-friendly.
iOS users in the U.S. can now access the game. In Europe, players can play it using an EU account. They can access it through the Epic Games Store or third-party platforms like AltStore.
The courts have removed the legal hurdles. Epic’s chief executive, Tim Sweeney, emphasized the company’s commitment to building an open, competitive future.
“We’re thrilled to bring Fortnite back to millions of iPhone and iPad users in the U.S.,” said Sweeney. “This is an excellent win for players as well as developers.”
Mobile users are rushing to download a new version of one of the most famous games on the planet. This could indicate larger changes to how apps are distributed and the way developers conduct business on Apple’s tightly controlled platform.
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