Epic Games is making significant strides in the mobile gaming arena by introducing 19 third-party games to its Epic Games Store on both Android and iOS platforms. This move marks a pivotal moment for Epic, which has long been embroiled in legal battles with Apple and Google over app store policies and revenue sharing models. Despite ongoing litigation, Epic is pushing forward with its vision to provide a more open and developer-friendly marketplace for mobile gamers.
In a recent announcement on the Epic Games website, the company revealed that the new mobile offerings will kick off with โDungeon of the Endless: Apogee,โ available for free on both Android and iOS until February 20. Following this, โBloons TD 6โ is set to join the free game lineup, with additional titles being released monthly. Epic plans to transition to a weekly release schedule later this year, ensuring a steady stream of new content for mobile users.
The newly added games encompass a diverse range of genres and styles, catering to various gaming preferences. Titles such as โEvoland 2,โ โHidden Folks,โ and โSuper Meat Boy Foreverโ highlight Epicโs commitment to offering high-quality, engaging experiences. However, availability varies, with some games exclusive to either iOS or Android platforms and โDungeon of the Endless: Apogeeโ currently unavailable in Russia.
Epic Games is also enhancing its partnership terms with third-party developers. The company offers an attractive 88/12 revenue split for payments processed through the app and maintains a 0% fee on third-party payments. Additionally, the newly launched โLaunch Everywhere with Epicโ program reduces the royalty rate from 5% to 3.5% for eligible Unreal Engine games that debut on the Epic Games Store simultaneously or prior to other platforms. This initiative aims to incentivize developers to bring their titles to Epicโs expanding mobile storefront.
Amid these positive developments, Epic faces challenges beyond expanding its game library. Recently, two members of Epicโs board of directors were compelled to resign by the US Justice Department due to their concurrent roles on Tencentโs board, a company deemed a rival in the gaming industry. This move underscores the ongoing tensions between major gaming corporations and regulatory bodies. Additionally, Epic is currently pursuing legal action against an alleged cheater who is accused of using unauthorized software to gain an unfair advantage in several Fortnite tournaments, highlighting the companyโs commitment to maintaining fair play within its competitive gaming ecosystem.
Epicโs expansion into mobile gaming with third-party titles not only broadens its market reach but also offers gamers more diverse options outside of its proprietary Fortnite universe. As the mobile gaming sector continues to grow, Epicโs efforts to create a more inclusive and developer-friendly store could set new standards for the industry.