Fortnite returns to iOS under Xbox Cloud Gaming despite Apple’s many attempts to block Epic Games from making it happen.
Fortnite returns to iOS in the unlikeliest of manners amid Epic Games’ legal battle with Apple Inc. No one expected Microsoft to be that saving grace that would ultimately bring Fortnite back to Apple iOS devices, but here we are. Following Epic’s sudden decision to circumvent the App Store’s mandatory collection fee in 2020, Apple made it clear that Fortnite no longer had a home on the platform.
Mobile warriors have anxiously awaited the game’s long-awaited return, and Microsoft is the hero in this regard. Beginning today, Fortnite is free-to-play via Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS, iPadOS, Android Phones and Tablets, and Windows PC.
We’re partnering with Epic Games to make Fortnite available with Xbox Cloud Gaming, as we build on our commitment to use the power of the cloud to bring great games to more people across more devices.
How to play Fortnite on iOS using Xbox Cloud Gaming
It’s official – Fortnite returns to iOS, but in a non-traditional setting. Epic Games and Microsoft collaborated to make the game available on every platform defined above through Xbox Cloud Gaming. While this function is in Beta, players in 26 countries can use it to play Fortnite.
“As part of our mission to bring the joy and community of gaming to players wherever they are and to make gaming more accessible to people around the world, I’m excited to announce that we’ve partnered with Epic Games to make Fortnite available on supported browser-enabled devices for free with Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) in 26 countries," said Catherine Gluckstein, Vice President and Head of Product, Xbox Cloud Gaming.
No purchase is necessary to run Fortnite on Xbox Cloud Gaming since it’s a free option. To participate, follow these instructions:
- Head to the Xbox website (https://www.xbox.com/en-US/play).
- Click the “play for free” option under Fortnite.
- Sign in to a Microsoft account and select “launch” when prompted.
- Fortnite should then load up following a brief Xbox Cloud Gaming animation.
- Plug in a controller or use your trusty hands to play Fortnite on one of the verified platforms.
What does this mean for the future?
Apple has found ways in the past to block Epic Games’ many attempts to make Fortnite playable on iOS. As a result, it’s unclear whether the mega-corporation will look for a reason to thwart the Xbox Cloud Gaming deal. Xbox’s platform allows players to purchase V-Bucks through the Microsoft Store, meaning the App Store does not factor into the equation whatsoever.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has been vocal about Apple’s policies and fees throughout the ongoing dispute. He took to Twitter today to emphasize the Xbox Cloud Gaming partnership while adding there will be no 30% Apple tax. This partnership is a significant step in the right direction for Fortnite to permanently return to the iOS platform.
Stay tuned to esports.gg for the latest Fortnite news and updates.