The Epic Games Store (EGS) is taking a significant leap into mobile gaming, promising to transform how gamers access and enjoy games on their handheld devices. With a robust plan to roll out up to 50 third-party titles by early 2025, along with the introduction of their popular free games program, Epic is set to challenge the current mobile gaming ecosystem dominated by Apple and Google.
What’s New with Epic Games Store on Mobile?
Launched initially in 2024, the EGS mobile platform has started to stir the mobile gaming world by offering third-party games and the allure of free games previously enjoyed by PC gamers. The platform aims to attract a broad audience with promises of low fees for developers using the Unreal Engine, and a more equitable revenue split that favors the game makers.
Epic has announced the inclusion of nearly 20 third-party games such as Dungeon of the Endless: Apogee and Evoland 2, with plans to expand this library significantly. The company is also tackling the challenges posed by stringent app store policies by covering certain iOS fees to lure developers to its platform.
Strategic Enhancements and Developer Incentives
Epic’s strategy includes more than just games. They’re enhancing the EGS mobile with social and party features like in-game chat and cross-platform play. These features are aimed at creating a more connected and seamless experience across all platforms.
To further entice developers, Epic has revised its financial terms, offering an 88/12 revenue split for transactions processed through the app, and even more favorable terms for those who launch their games on EGS simultaneously or before other platforms.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite these advancements, EGS mobile faces challenges, particularly with its installation process being cumbersome on iOS due to Apple’s restrictive policies. This has somewhat hindered its adoption compared to its Android counterpart. Nevertheless, Epic is pushing forward with ambitious plans, including self-publishing tools and payment solutions slated for rollout by mid-2025, which are expected to simplify the release and monetization processes for developers.
As Epic Games continues to innovate and expand its mobile storefront, it remains committed to providing a platform that not only enhances the gaming experience for users but also offers fair and profitable terms for game developers. The journey of the EGS into mobile gaming is just beginning, and it promises to reshape the gaming landscape with its user-centric and developer-friendly policies.
