Epic Games offers 20% back in rewards, Eyes Fortnite's return to iOS in the US
Image via Epic Games
In a move that could reshape in-game purchase dynamics,
Epic Games
has announced a major upgrade to its rewards program, offering players 20% back in Epic Rewards for all purchases made via Epic's own payment system. The offer applies across popular titles like Fortnite, Rocket League, and Fall Guys, and spans multiple platforms including PC, iOS, Android, and the web.
The timing of this update is significant, as Fortnite prepares for its long-awaited return to Apple's App Store in the United States.
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While Epic's battles with Apple have played out in courtrooms for years, the latest turn appears to favor Epic - enough for the company to resubmit Fortnite for review by Apple.
A bigger slice for players, but not Apple
This revamped rewards initiative is designed to incentivize players to bypass third-party payment processors like Apple's in-app system. Players who opt to purchase V-Bucks or other in-game items through Epic's own portal will now receive 20% of their spend back in Epic Rewards, a sizable increase from the previous 5%.
These rewards can then be used for future purchases within Epic's ecosystem, including new games on the Epic Games Store. However, players won't earn any rewards if they complete transactions through Apple or other third-party payment systems.
The underlying message is clear: Epic is encouraging its user base to steer clear of Apple's payment platform, especially as it prepares to re-enter the iOS market in the US after being removed in 2020.
Epic's decision to boost its rewards offering coincides with a recent legal win, where a court ruled that Apple could not prohibit app developers from guiding users toward alternative payment options. While Apple largely won the broader case, this one provision has opened a strategic doorway for Epic.
To sweeten the deal further, Epic has also extended the 20% rewards to all purchases made via the Epic Games Store until August 31 - even for third-party titles. That means users eyeing popular titles from other developers can also benefit.
Whether or not Apple approves Fortnite's return, Epic's message is loud and clear: players should buy direct. For frequent Fortnite shoppers and loyal Epic Games fans, it's a welcome bonus. For Apple, it's another thorn in a long-standing rivalry.
With Fortnite's iOS relaunch likely just around the corner, Epic has fired yet another shot in the ongoing battle for digital storefront supremacy.
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