### Epic Games Store Launches on iOS: A Revolutionary Shift for Mobile Gaming
A noteworthy advancement in mobile gaming is the recent launch of the **Epic Games Store** on iOS platforms. Thanks to new European Union regulations that permit the presence of alternative app stores on Apple devices, the longstanding dominance of the Apple App Store has been challenged. Epic Games, the creator of the worldwide sensation *Fortnite*, officially debuted its mobile app store for iOS on **August 16, 2024**, signaling a crucial turning point in the gaming sector.
Yet, this launch is merely the start. Epic Games has grand ambitions for its mobile store, which includes a **free games initiative** and a variety of features aimed at captivating both gamers and developers. Let’s delve deeper into what this signifies for the future of mobile gaming.
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### Free Games Initiative: A Proven Approach
An exhilarating revelation from **Unreal Fest 2024** held in Seattle is the extension of Epic’s **free games initiative**—a pillar of its success on PC—to its mobile platform. Users on the **Epic Games Store for PC** have enjoyed free games weekly since 2019. This strategy has been crucial in fostering a devoted user base, particularly in an arena where Steam predominates.
Notable titles Epic offered for free on PC in 2024 include *The Callisto Protocol*, *Marvel’s Midnight Suns*, *Dragon Age: Inquisition*, and *The Outer Worlds*. Now, iPhone and iPad users will get the chance to obtain free games, potentially creating a significant shift in the mobile gaming arena.
In the words of **Steve Allison**, General Manager of the Epic Games Store, the free games initiative will kick off in **Q4 2024**, alongside the rollout of third-party apps for the mobile store. “We’re going to have some amazing offerings for players that will also greatly benefit developers because it’ll facilitate rapid scaling,” Allison stated.
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### Challenging the Apple App Store
Epic Games is accustomed to taking on industry titans. Upon launching its PC store in 2018, it faced off against **Steam**, the leading player in PC gaming. Epic distinguished itself by providing free games and lower revenue shares for developers. This approach has proven effective, drawing millions of users to the Epic Games Store.
Now, Epic is directing its attention toward the **Apple App Store**, another tough rival. Apple’s App Store has traditionally been the prime choice for iOS users, but Epic’s strategy of offering complimentary premium games may change the game. By distributing high-quality games for free, Epic could entice a substantial number of iOS users, especially those already acquainted with the Epic Games Store experience on PC.
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### Developer-Centric Features
Epic Games is attentive to not only players but also creating benefits for developers. A significant announcement from Unreal Fest revealed that **self-publishing tools** will be made accessible on the mobile Epic Games Store by the **first half of 2025**. This will enable developers to distribute their games directly on the platform, avoiding the stringent and often costly demands of the Apple App Store.
In addition, Epic is developing **social and party functions** for its mobile store, enhancing user experience by making it easier for players to connect and cooperate. These innovations are anticipated to launch in the near future, further setting the Epic Games Store apart from its rivals.
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### Inclusion of Third-Party Games and Future Growth
By the conclusion of 2024, Epic Games aims to feature between **10 and 50 third-party games** on its mobile store. This is merely the beginning, as the company seeks to swiftly broaden its catalogue in the subsequent years. The addition of third-party titles is vital for the store’s expansion, as it will provide a more varied selection of games for players.
Furthermore, Epic’s decision to broaden its **free games initiative** to mobile may entice more developers to launch their games on the platform. The visibility gained from being highlighted as a free title could be invaluable for smaller studios aiming to reach a larger audience.
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### The Path Forward
Epic Games’ entry into the mobile app store arena is a daring venture that could have substantial consequences for both gamers and developers. With the **free games initiative**, **self-publishing tools**, and an expanding library of third-party games, the Epic Games Store is establishing itself as a serious competitor in the mobile gaming domain.
While challenging the Apple App Store is no easy task, Epic’s proven success on PC indicates it has the capability to make a considerable impression. By providing players with complimentary premium games and offering developers more advantageous terms, Epic could potentially disrupt the convention in mobile gaming.
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