After a long wait, Fortnite has officially returned to the U.S. App Store. The popular battle royale game, made by Epic Games, is now once again available for iPhone and iPad users.
This return comes after a five-year legal battle between Epic Games and Apple. Back in 2020, Apple removed Fortnite from its store. This happened because Epic added a new payment option that let users buy items directly from Epic, skipping Apple’s payment system. As a result, Epic offers players a 20% discount, which led to the app’s removal and a major lawsuit.
A U S. judge later ruled in Epic’s favor, saying that Apple was wrong to block alternative payment options. Last month, the court told Apple it must allow developers to use outside payment methods and not charge extra fees for them.
After the ruling, Epic tried to bring Fortnite back to the App Store. However, Apple delayed the approval. Epic claimed that Apple was still blocking the app in both the U.S. and Europe.
This week, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers made it clear that Apple should either Approve Epic’s submission or explain why it legally cannot. This move helped clear the way for Fortnite’s return.
Now, Fortnite is live again on the App Store in the U.S. and also available through the Epic Games Store and AltStore in the EU. Epic says it will soon be visible in App Store searches.
The new version of the game even includes a 20% cashback offer for players who buy in-game items directly from Epic. This option gives users more choice and saves money by avoiding Apple’s extra charges.
Fortnite’s return marks a big moment for mobile gaming and app store freedom. Fans of the game can now jump back in – and enjoy better prices too.
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