Why was Fortnite mobile banned?
Fortnite, the popular battle royale game, was banned from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in August 2020. This move was taken after the game’s developer, Epic Games, introduced a direct payment system, allowing users to purchase in-game virtual currency, V-Bucks, without going through Apple’s or Google’s stores. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind Fortnite’s ban and the implications of this move.
Reason for Ban
The ban was triggered by Epic Games’ decision to bypass Apple’s and Google’s in-app purchase systems, which resulted in a dispute over fees. Apple charges a commission of up to 30% on in-app transactions, while Google charges around 15% to 30%. Epic Games had introduced a direct payment system, allowing users to purchase V-Bucks without paying this commission.
The First Incident
On August 13, 2020, Epic Games updated its iOS app to allow players to purchase V-Bucks using the App Store’s rival payment system, avoiding the 30% commission paid to Apple. Apple swiftly responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store. A few days later, on August 17, Epic Games also released an updated version of its Android app, allowing users to buy V-Bucks using other payment methods, and in turn, Google also pulled Fortnite from the Google Play Store.
Key Implications
The ban on Fortnite mobile has several significant implications:
• Fortnite Players are Unable to Buy In-Game Content: With the direct payment system disabled, players on iOS and Android devices can no longer purchase V-Bucks or other in-game content, making it challenging to progress in the game or participate in events.
• Impact on Fortnite’s Monetization Model: Epic Games relies heavily on the sale of V-Bucks, which is used to generate revenue. By bypassing Apple’s and Google’s in-app purchase systems, the company may face decreased revenue and a blow to its monetization model.
• Consequences for the Gaming Industry: This ban sets a precedent, as other game developers might also consider bypassing traditional in-app purchase systems to reduce costs. However, this could lead to fragmentation and create a chaotic in-app purchase landscape.
• Competition from Cloud Gaming Services: With cloud gaming services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud, users can access and play games without having to download them. The Fortnite ban could lead to further adoption of cloud gaming, potentially disrupting the traditional model of game distribution and sales.
What Did Apple and Google Say?
In response to the situation, Apple stated:
"When you use our in-app purchase system, we apply a 30% services fee. If a competitor like Epic Games bypasses this system and tries to offer their own store to avoid paying the commission to us, it could prevent them from having the exact same level of innovation that they have today, to continue to offer free in-app purchases and many more things."
Google followed a similar stance, emphasizing its role as a "distribution partner" and highlighting its efforts to protect the distribution ecosystem.
Current State
The ban has continued, and Fortnite is currently not available on iOS devices or the Google Play Store. Epic Games has promised to continue the legal fight, but it is still unclear when the game will return to these platforms. The company has hinted that it may release an unoptimized version of Fortnite as a web-based app or explore alternative distribution methods, but these plans have yet to materialize.
In conclusion, the ban on Fortnite mobile was triggered by the company’s decision to introduce a direct payment system, bypassing Apple’s and Google’s in-app purchase systems. This move aimed to reduce costs, but it has led to the removal of the game from the App Store and Google Play Store. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting game development, monetization strategies, and the future of cloud gaming services. The fate of Fortnite’s return to mobile platforms remains uncertain, but the industry can expect further innovations and transformations in the years to come.
Key Points Summary
• Fortnite was banned from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store due to Epic Games’ direct payment system, bypassing commission fees.
• Apple charges a 30% commission on in-app transactions, while Google charges 15% to 30%.
• The ban affects players’ ability to purchase V-Bucks and in-game content.
• Implications include reduced revenue for Fortnite, potential disruption of traditional in-app purchase systems, and increased competition from cloud gaming services.
• Epic Games has vowed to continue the legal fight and potentially release an unoptimized web-based version of the game.
Timeline of Key Events
• August 13, 2020: Epic Games introduces direct payment system on iOS app
• August 14, 2020: Apple removes Fortnite from App Store
• August 17, 2020: Epic Games releases updated Android app with direct payment option
• August 20, 2020: Google removes Fortnite from Google Play Store
Note: This article is for informative purposes only and should not be considered as an authoritative or legal document. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the official statements and reports from Epic Games, Apple, Google, and other relevant parties.