Epic Games Expands Mobile Store with Third-Party Titles and Free Games Program

Epic Games has taken a significant step in expanding its mobile game store by introducing third-party titles and launching a free games program. This move marks a new chapter in the company’s ongoing efforts to challenge the dominance of Apple and Google in the mobile app marketplace.

Third-Party Games Join Epic’s Mobile Store

Epic Games has added nearly 20 third-party games to its mobile store, broadening the platform’s offerings beyond its own popular titles like Fortnite and Rocket League Sideswipe. This expansion demonstrates Epic’s commitment to creating a more diverse and competitive mobile gaming ecosystem.

The addition of third-party games is a crucial milestone for Epic’s mobile store, which launched just a few months ago. By welcoming external developers, Epic aims to provide players with a wider range of gaming options and create new opportunities for game creators.

Free Games Program Launches Globally

To celebrate this expansion, Epic has introduced a free games program on mobile platforms. The program kicks off with “Dungeon of the Endless: Apogee,” available at no cost until February 20th on both Android and iOS devices in the European Union. Epic plans to offer free games monthly, with intentions to increase the frequency to weekly releases later in the year.

This initiative not only benefits players by providing access to premium games at no cost but also helps developers gain exposure to a broader audience. The free games program has been a cornerstone of Epic’s strategy on PC, and its extension to mobile platforms could significantly impact the mobile gaming landscape.

Developer Incentives and Support

Epic Games is taking proactive steps to encourage developer participation in its mobile store. In a bold move, the company has announced it will cover the Core Technology Fee (CTF) for developers using third-party iOS marketplaces for one year. This fee, imposed by Apple, charges €0.50 per install after 1 million annual downloads.

By absorbing this cost, Epic aims to lower the barrier to entry for developers and foster a more competitive environment. This initiative aligns with Epic’s ongoing advocacy for fairer practices in the mobile app ecosystem.

Challenges and Regulatory Landscape

Despite these efforts, Epic faces significant challenges in gaining traction with its mobile store. The company has been vocal about the restrictive practices of Apple and Google, which have limited Epic’s ability to compete effectively in the mobile app market.

Epic is particularly focused on the European market, where the Digital Markets Act (DMA) could play a crucial role in reshaping the competitive landscape. The company argues that strict enforcement of the DMA is necessary to achieve true app store freedom and create a level playing field for all developers.

New Features Enhance User Experience

To improve the overall user experience, Epic has introduced several new features to its mobile app:

• Epic Account Login: Users can now maintain persistent login status across Epic Games on both iOS and Android devices, streamlining access to games and services.
• Auto-Update Functionality: This feature ensures that games and apps are always up-to-date, eliminating the need for manual updates and allowing players to jump into their favorite games without delay.

Revenue Sharing and Royalty Reductions

Epic Games continues to offer favorable terms for developers, maintaining its 88/12 revenue split for payments processed through Epic and charging no fees for third-party payments. This approach stands in contrast to the policies of other major app stores and reflects Epic’s commitment to supporting developers.

Starting in 2025, Epic will introduce the Launch Everywhere Program, which offers reduced royalties for eligible Unreal Engine games published on the Epic Games Store. This program aims to incentivize developers to prioritize the Epic Games Store for their releases.

Future Plans and Expansion

Epic’s self-publishing tools for mobile games are currently in an invite-only beta phase, with plans to make these tools widely available to all developers and publishers later this year. This move will further lower the barriers to entry for mobile game developers looking to publish on Epic’s platform.

The company has expressed its intention to continue expanding its catalog of third-party games and introduce additional app updates in the future. These ongoing efforts underscore Epic’s long-term commitment to establishing itself as a major player in the mobile gaming market.

As Epic Games continues to challenge the status quo in mobile app distribution, its expanded offerings and developer-friendly policies could potentially reshape the landscape of mobile gaming. The success of these initiatives may depend on regulatory decisions and the willingness of developers and consumers to embrace alternative app marketplaces.