Fortnite fans, get ready to dive back into the game on your iPhones! After a nearly five-year absence, Epic Games has successfully brought the popular battle royale game back to the iOS App Store in the United States.

The saga began when Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store in 2020 after Epic challenged the platform’s in-app purchase rules by introducing its own payment system. This move sparked a lengthy legal battle that ultimately forced Apple to modify its App Store policies.

Following a significant court ruling that prevented Apple from taking fees on purchases made outside of apps, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney announced plans to return Fortnite to iOS. The company strategically submitted the app using its Sweden developer account, navigating complex legal and technical challenges.

The return comes with an exciting bonus for players: a 20 percent reward when using Epic’s payment system for in-game purchases. This incentive is available across Fortnite, Rocket League, and Fall Guys on multiple platforms including PC, iOS, Android, and web.

Interestingly, the game’s re-emergence coincides with a new Star Wars-themed season, adding extra excitement for players. When downloading from the App Store, users should expect an initial small download followed by a substantial additional game content download of around 13GB.

This resolution marks a significant victory for Epic Games and potentially sets a precedent for how tech giants manage app ecosystem rules. The company’s persistent legal challenge has opened up new possibilities for developers seeking more flexible in-app purchase options.

For Bay Area gamers and tech enthusiasts, this development represents more than just a game’s return, it’s a testament to the ongoing battle for fair digital marketplaces and developer rights.