# Epic Games Store vs. Google and Apple: The Clash for Mobile Gaming Freedom
Since its debut in 2018, the Epic Games Store (EGS) has emerged as a transformative element in the gaming landscape, challenging the status quo dominated by platforms like Steam through its bold revenue-sharing strategies and free games initiative. Nevertheless, as the store broadens its reach into mobile gaming, Epic Games faces off against tech titans Google and Apple. The company accuses both entities of sowing unnecessary confusion and obstacles that restrict the expansion of the Epic Games Store on Android and iOS platforms. Here’s an in-depth examination of the ongoing dispute and its implications for gamers and developers alike.
—
## **What’s Fresh for the Epic Games Store on Mobile?**
Epic Games has recently unveiled a series of enhancements to its mobile store, designed to attract more users and developers. These enhancements include:
1. **Mobile Free Games Initiative**: A beloved aspect of the desktop version, the free games initiative now extends to mobile. Initially, users can redeem one free game every month, with intentions to shift towards weekly free games later this year. The inaugural title, *Dungeon of the Endless: Apogee*, will be available until February 20, followed by *Bloons TD 6* and other selections.
2. **Support for Third-Party Games**: Epic is broadening its mobile catalog with 17 third-party games on Android and 15 on iOS. These titles will complement Epic’s own popular games, including *Fortnite* and *Rocket League*, which have been integral to the platform’s offerings.
3. **Enhanced User Engagement**: New functionalities such as consistent account login across various games and auto-features aim to simplify the gaming journey for mobile users.
Despite these improvements, Epic contends that its aspirations for mobile growth are being curtailed by restrictive policies and procedures from Apple and Google.
—
## **Epic’s Complaints Against Apple and Google**
Epic’s grievances with Apple and Google are longstanding. The company has been outspoken regarding what it perceives as anti-competitive tactics, especially in terms of app distribution and payment systems. Key points of concern include:
### **1. “Scare Screens” and Installation Hurdles**
Epic claims that both Apple and Google use strategies to dissuade users from sideloading apps such as the Epic Games Store. For instance, on Android, the installation process consists of 12 steps where users face numerous warning notifications—termed “scare screens” by Epic. These alerts warn users about possible security threats, which Epic argues are inflated and deter users from completing the installation.
Epic reports that more than 50% of users attempting to install the Epic Games Store on mobile abandon the task due to these warnings. This has led to 29 million installations, significantly below Epic’s target of 100 million by the close of 2024.
### **2. Core Technology Charges**
Epic raises concerns over Apple’s “core technology fee,” asserting that it serves as a financial hurdle for developers. This fee, paired with Apple’s 30% cut of in-app purchases, diminishes the appeal for developers to use the Epic Games Store for their games on iOS.
### **3. Restricted Developer Involvement**
Epic indicates that none of the top 100 highest-grossing mobile game developers have opted to distribute their games via the Epic Games Store. The company believes this is due to the stringent policies and fees enforced by Apple and Google, which hinder Epic’s ability to compete as a legitimate alternative app marketplace.
—
## **The Wider Implications**
Epic’s clash with Apple and Google forms part of a broader discourse regarding the openness of app ecosystems and the influence of gatekeepers within the digital marketplace. Below are some significant ramifications:
### **For Gamers**
Should Epic succeed in reducing barriers and enhancing its mobile store, gamers could enjoy increased choices and possibly lower costs. Epic’s free games initiative combined with a competitive revenue-sharing model could spur more developers to launch their titles on the platform, leading to a more diverse selection of games.
### **For Developers**
Epic’s advocacy for a more open app ecosystem may empower developers by offering alternative distribution routes that feature superior revenue sharing. This could be especially advantageous for independent developers who often face challenges competing in spaces dominated by larger studios.
### **For the Industry**
The resolution of this conflict may set a significant precedent for the future operations of app stores. Should regulators or courts favor Epic, it may trigger substantial modifications in how Apple and Google oversee their app ecosystems, potentially fostering greater competition and innovation.
—
## **What Comes Next?**
Epic’s struggle against Apple and Google is ongoing. The company has already initiated legal proceedings against both tech giants, accusing them of engaging in anti-competitive behavior. While the legal disputes progress, Epic is concentrating on enhancing its mobile store and luring in more users and developers.
In the meantime, gamers can dive into the new
