Epic Games’ Fortnite Epic Games beats Google in an antitrust suit
A move that could alter the industry of mobile gaming the Fortnite game creator Epic Games has won its legal battle against Google. The implications of this case can send a shockwave and cause Google to adopt more fair guidelines for the upcoming mobile game.
In the year 2020, Epic sued Google for having monopoly over their mobile app and for ensuring that developers couldn’t earn profit without using their services (via VGC). Another complaint is Google getting 30% of mobile earnings, requiring devs to pay through Google’s system of billing as well as offering “lucrative deals” to gadget makers to prevent them from using Apple.
Epic Chief Executive Officer Tim Sweeney released a statement on Twitter in which he acknowledged the win and saying that efforts to rectify the issue are scheduled for January. Sweeney took the opportunity to refer to his use of the “Free Fortnite” hashtag that they were unable to utilize on Apple but had the ability to use the hashtag against Google It appears.
“Victory Over Google! After four weeks of thorough trial testimony The California jury ruled against the Google Play monopoly on all aspects. The trial of solutions will begin on January 1st. We appreciate everyone’s help and trust! Fortnite is free! Fortnite!” Sweeney said on Twitter.
Google’s side, Google claims that they are attempting to appeal the decision to the judge. So it seems like the drama in court isn’t done at this point. If this decision is upheld, Google will have to modify its systems in conjunction with Epic Games and other mobile developers. If you’re in love with Epic or not it is an enormous success for the developers.
It’s testament to Fortnite’s success that the free-to-play shooter continues to be popular regardless of not being available played on Apple as well as Google. It has also gained many fans due to new projects such as Lego Fortnite, Fortnite Festival and Rocket Racing. The cross-over event is significant for battle royale genre, with recent wins for rapper Eminem as well as Metal Gear protagonist Solid Snake.
Epic’s Fortnite is available for download for download on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
