Tag: Epic Games

  • Next Free Game on Epic Games Store Revealed Before Mystery Giveaway

    Next Free Game on Epic Games Store Revealed Before Mystery Giveaway

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is offering a new round of free game giveaways for mobile and PC users, valued at nearly $80.
    2. The giveaway event will run until next Thursday, with most deals available on the PC service.
    3. The Mystery Game program is returning, featuring the eighth and ninth consecutive free titles.
    4. Upcoming free games have been teased, but the hints are reportedly cryptic and hard to understand.
    5. One of the anticipated free games is “Ogu and the Secret Forest,” a 2D adventure game.

    Epic Games has launched another round of free game giveaways for both mobile and PC users. This event will run until next Thursday, offering nearly $80 worth of games across all platforms, with most of the deals available on the PC service. Last week, they gave away Deliver At All Costs (currently priced at $47.99 on Amazon) among other titles. As always, the storefront has shared its future plans for additional free games.

    Mystery Games Return

    Once again, Epic Games has revived its Mystery Game program, similar to what they have done in prior weeks. Next week’s free games will mark the eighth and ninth consecutive titles taken from their collection. However, the company has tweeted that the teasers for this week will be the last for the time being, as they conclude another Mega Sale event. Many have commented that Epic’s recent teasers have been quite cryptic and difficult to understand.

    Latest Teasers

    Sadly, this week’s hints are no different, as shown in the embedded content below. According to the leaker u/MeguminShiro, Epic has reused a clue from two weeks ago that they changed at the last moment. Consequently, it seems they believe that one of the free games next week will be Ogu and the Secret Forest, a 2D adventure game still marked as ‘coming soon’ on the Epic Games Store. For additional details, please refer to the teasers shared below.

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  • Epic Games Store Reveals New Mystery Game Giveaways for May 2025

    Epic Games Store Reveals New Mystery Game Giveaways for May 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is offering free games for both mobile and PC users, with this week’s PC offerings valued at nearly $80.
    2. One of the free PC games is a new title launched by Konami.
    3. Future free games will be hinted at through the Mystery Game program, with no official announcements until next Thursday.
    4. Two games will replace the current three titles on May 29, potentially including a triple-A title and a mobile version.
    5. The Mystery Game program will continue until June 5, with the final games revealed a week later, coinciding with the end of the Mega Sale.

    Epic Games has started another week of free games for both mobile and PC users. Typically, the value of the PC offerings is much higher, totaling nearly $80 this week. Interestingly, among this week’s free PC games is one that Konami has just launched today, and we have provided full details in a separate article.

    Future Free Games

    Furthermore, the store has shared initial ideas for the upcoming round of free games. Like in recent weeks, Epic is keeping the details of these future giveaways under wraps for now. The image above shows that the store is once again using its Mystery Game program to hint at what’s to come next week. Therefore, don’t expect any official news until next Thursday.

    Upcoming Changes

    In the meantime, Epic Games has announced that two games will take the place of the three titles available until May 29 at 15:00 UTC. If previous giveaways are to be considered, one of these games might be a triple-A title. The other could possibly be a mobile version, with Epic planning to give mobile users a discount as well. It seems the store will continue its Mystery Game program until June 5, with its last Mystery Games being revealed a week later, coinciding with the end of its latest Mega Sale.

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  • Fortnite Returns to Apple’s App Store After Five-Year Absence

    Fortnite Returns to Apple’s App Store After Five-Year Absence

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fortnite has returned to the US App Store after a lengthy legal battle between Apple and Epic.
    2. The game was removed in August 2020 for breaching App Store rules related to payment processing.
    3. Epic achieved a partial victory, with Fortnite reinstated in the EU App Store due to new regulations.
    4. Epic plans to launch an official Epic Store app in the EU Play Store by 2025.
    5. Currently, Fortnite is available in the US App Store and EU via the Epic Store, with global availability still uncertain.

    After a long legal fight that lasted several years between Apple and Epic, Fortnite has made its comeback on the US App Store. This follows its return to the EU App Store last year due to new regulations that compelled Apple to change its approach.

    The Reason for Removal

    The well-known battle royale game was taken off the App Store in August 2020 after Apple alleged that Epic had breached store rules by allowing players to buy in-game currency directly through them. The main issue was Apple’s 30% cut on transactions made via the App Store, which Epic argued was not fair. Google also reacted negatively when Epic circumvented their 30% charge, leading to the game’s removal from the Android Play Store.

    A Step Forward

    In a partial win for Epic, the game was reinstated in the EU App Store last year, thanks to changes in the EU Digital Markets Act. This legislation required Apple to accept third-party app stores and different payment methods. Epic has declared plans to launch an official Epic Store app in the EU Play Store by 2025. In the meantime, players can download the game on Android by sideloading the Epic Store app.

    Global Availability of Fortnite

    Currently, the game is only accessible in the US App Store and can be found in the EU region via the Epic Store. Likewise, Google permits sideloading the app through the Epic Store. Fortnite’s official account on X stated that the game will be available in the US App Store and the Epic Games Store and AltStore in the EU. However, it remains uncertain when the game will be available to players across the globe.

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  • Epic Games Store May 2025 Free Mystery Game Predictions Revealed

    Epic Games Store May 2025 Free Mystery Game Predictions Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is giving away free games for PC and mobile users until 15:00 UTC on May 22.
    2. Three new free games will be available from May 22 to May 29, generating excitement among fans.
    3. One confirmed game is “Deliver At All Costs,” set to launch on multiple platforms including PC and consoles.
    4. Leaker u/MeguminShiro suggests that “Hell Let Loose” and “Ogu and the Secret Forest” could be the other free games.
    5. “Ogu and the Secret Forest” will also release on the Epic Games Store on May 22 and has a mobile version.

    Epic Games is currently running another giveaway of games for PC and mobile users. These free games can be added to your Epic Games library until 15:00 UTC on May 22. Fans are already excited for this Thursday’s new releases, as the company has shared new teasers for upcoming Mystery Games online.

    Upcoming Free Games

    The store has confirmed that it will offer three games between May 22 and May 29. The teaser included has sparked speculation among fans about what these games might be. It appears that Konami has already announced one of the games, Deliver At All Costs, which is expected to launch on PC, Xbox Series S|X, and PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $499 on Amazon) at the same time.

    Possible Game Titles

    In addition, leaker u/MeguminShiro has shared some hints regarding the second and third free games. The Reddit user claims that Hell Let Loose will be one of them, while Ogu and the Secret Forest might be the other. Interestingly, Ogu and the Secret Forest is also set to release on the Epic Games Store on May 22. Moreover, it has a mobile version, making it a strong candidate for a dual-platform giveaway across both of Epic’s free game programs. For more information, check out the teaser below.

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  • Tim Sweeney: Epic Games Launcher Clunky but Offers Unique Benefits

    Tim Sweeney: Epic Games Launcher Clunky but Offers Unique Benefits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games launcher struggles with navigation and speed compared to Steam, affecting user experience.
    2. Content delivery network location impacts loading times and resource usage for Epic Games Store.
    3. Sweeney is optimistic about cross-platform functionalities as a future advantage for Epic Games.
    4. Epic engages users with free AAA games and attracts new developers with better revenue shares.
    5. Despite improvements, slow performance remains a challenge for users exploring new titles.

    The Epic Games launcher has had a hard time keeping up with Valve’s Steam marketplace in terms of popularity. While Steam offers an unrivaled variety of games, many users find the Epic option somewhat annoying. In a recent podcast with Lex Fridman, CEO Tim Sweeney made some unexpected remarks about this situation. He acknowledged that, despite the company’s attempts, the Epic launcher is not as smooth to navigate as its competitors. Still, he highlighted the software’s benefits across multiple platforms and is hopeful for its future development.

    Navigation Challenges

    Sweeney pointed out that one major problem affecting the launcher is the location of content delivery networks. If users are situated far from the nearest server, it takes longer to load store pages and download content. Even when the launcher is accessed from an ideal spot, it seems to use more system resources compared to Steam. The design of the Epic Games Store is more modern, featuring bigger graphics that can strain lower-end computers.

    Future Outlook

    Despite these issues, Sweeney remains optimistic about the future of the marketplace. He pointed out that while Steam’s user base is predominantly on PCs, Epic Games has rolled out cross-platform functionalities. Games like Fortnite and Rocket League enable users to carry over their progress and purchases to Xbox, PlayStation, and mobile devices. Sweeney thinks this will become a major advantage in the coming years. Additionally, Microsoft is also making efforts to merge platform boundaries, which could help both Epic and Steam thrive with a new Windows-based Xbox console that expands access to their games.

    Competitive Landscape

    Generally, Steam still boasts a much larger user base compared to the Epic Games launcher. However, Epic keeps users engaged by offering free games, often including AAA titles, which dissuades them from uninstalling the application. Furthermore, the marketplace is becoming more attractive to new developers, especially after recent updates. These game creators will now benefit from a larger share of the revenue generated by the Epic Games Store. Nevertheless, the slow performance continues to be a hurdle for gamers eager to explore new titles.

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  • Apple Requires Apps to Include External Payment Links

    Apple Requires Apps to Include External Payment Links

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ruling Against Apple: A US judge has ruled that Apple cannot charge or block external payment links in iOS apps, marking a win for developers like Epic Games.

    2. Developer Freedom: Developers can now direct users to payment websites outside of Apple’s system, avoiding the 27-30% fees imposed by Apple on in-app purchases.

    3. Background of the Case: The ruling is part of a long-standing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, influenced by misleading testimonies from Apple executives.

    4. Impact on App Store: Developers are expected to update their apps immediately to take advantage of this ruling, which could lead to lower costs for users and higher profits for developers.

    5. Broader Implications: While the ruling currently applies only in the US, it may affect other platforms like Google Play Store, depending on the outcome of Apple’s planned appeal.

    A US judge has decided against Apple, stopping the company from charging or blocking external payment links in iOS applications, starting right away. This is a win for Epic Games and other developers, marking a significant change in a four-year legal fight, and allowing US App Store apps to avoid Apple’s 30% fees for in-app payments, disrupting the iPhone ecosystem.

    Developers Gain More Freedom

    Now, developers can direct users to payment websites that are not part of Apple’s system. Apple can no longer impose fees of 27-30% on outside purchases, nor can it prevent developers from designing or positioning payment links. The company is also prohibited from using fear tactics—like warning messages—to dissuade users from leaving an app to buy elsewhere. Developers can simply provide neutral alerts, which is a big win for Epic and Spotify, who have had similar confrontations with Apple.

    Background of the Ruling

    This decision, linked to the ongoing Epic vs. Apple drama since 2020, was complicated by Apple VP Alex Roman’s misleading testimony and CEO Tim Cook’s attempts to ignore a ruling from 2021, despite warnings from Phil Schiller, according to TechCrunch. Previously, Apple compelled developers to utilize its payment system, taking a 30% cut from in-app transactions and banning any external links or suggestions of alternatives while employing scare tactics against outside payments.

    Future Implications for the App Store

    Apple plans to appeal while still following the ruling. This could lead to a change as developers, like Epic and Spotify, are set to update their apps right away. The table below outlines the specifics. This could lead to lower costs for users and higher profits for developers, particularly for free-to-play games such as Fortnite, but this change is currently limited to the US. With Google’s Play Store facing similar issues, this ruling could have wider effects across different platforms. Will Apple’s appeal change this decision, or is it the start of a new chapter in app freedom? Only time will tell.

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    Apple Requires Apps to Include External Payment Links

     

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  • Fortnite Returns to iOS in the US After Epic Games’ Legal Win

    Fortnite Returns to iOS in the US After Epic Games’ Legal Win

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games and Apple have been in a legal dispute since 2020 over Fortnite’s removal from the App Store due to direct payment options.
    2. A recent ruling allows Fortnite to return to iOS after Apple was found in “willful violation” of a 2021 injunction.
    3. Epic Games’ CEO, Tim Sweeney, proposed a deal to drop litigation if Apple extends its new payment framework globally.
    4. The ruling may impact how developers handle in-app purchases and their relationship with Apple in the future.
    5. The conflict has lasted over four years, marking a significant development in the ongoing struggle against Apple’s App Store policies.

    Epic Games and Apple have been engaged in a court dispute since 2020, when Apple took down the Epic Games store from its App Store. This action also removed the widely played battle royale game, Fortnite, from iPhone and iPad users. However, in a ruling on April 30, it has been decided that Fortnite can come back to iOS, as the judge overseeing the case has ruled in favor of Epic Games. Tim Sweeney, the head of Epic Games, shared insights on X, referencing the Digital Markets Act.

    Background of the Dispute

    Fortnite’s removal from the App Store resulted from Epic Games implementing direct payment options for in-app purchases, which would allow them to avoid paying Apple’s 30% commission. The game store then sued the company from Cupertino, claiming that Apple was unfairly forcing developers to adhere strictly to the App Store’s guidelines when sharing content with iOS users. In 2021, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers sided with Epic Games, stating that Apple couldn’t stop developers from including external links; however, Fortnite still didn’t make its way back to the platform.

    Recent Legal Developments

    According to the ruling on April 30, Apple is found to be in “willful violation” of the 2021 injunction, and the court will not accept such defiance. “For this Court, there is no second bite at the apple,” Judge Rogers remarked.

    Sweeney took to X to share the news that following this ruling, Fortnite will reappear on the App Store next week, along with a proposal for peace. He stated, “If Apple extends the court’s friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide, we’ll return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop current and future litigation on the topic.” After four years, four months, and 17 days, it seems that it’s “Game over for the Apple tax,” Sweeney declared.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the long-standing conflict between Epic Games and Apple has taken a significant turn, with the return of Fortnite to iOS on the horizon. The developments could change how developers approach in-app purchases and their relationship with Apple moving forward.

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  • Future Epic Games Store Free Game Giveaways Leaked Early

    Future Epic Games Store Free Game Giveaways Leaked Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store is currently giving away Cat Quest II and Doodle Kingdom: Medieval for free on PC and mobile.
    2. Cat Quest II will be replaced by Arcadegeddon, Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms, River City Girls, and Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead tomorrow at 16:00 UTC.
    3. Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead will be free to download starting tomorrow, priced at $1.99 on other platforms, with varying ratings (3.7/5 on Google Play, 4.7/5 on Apple App Store).
    4. Epic Games is planning to offer in-game rewards for Firestone Online Idle RPG on April 17, along with additional details expected.
    5. More giveaways and changes are anticipated from Epic Games in the coming weeks.

    Reddit user u/MeguminShiro has shared some early details about what Epic Games has planned for their upcoming giveaways. Right now, the Epic Games Store is giving away Cat Quest II (currently priced at $34 on Amazon) and Doodle Kingdom: Medieval for free on its PC and mobile platforms, respectively.

    Upcoming Game Changes

    As mentioned previously, Cat Quest II will be swapped out for Arcadegeddon, Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms, and River City Girls when it goes back to its regular price tomorrow at 16:00 UTC. According to the information from u/MeguminShiro, these titles will also include Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead, which will be available on Android and iOS.

    Pricing and Ratings

    Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead is available for $1.99 on both platforms. It holds a rating of 3.7/5 stars on the Google Play Store but scores higher with 4.7/5 stars on the Apple App Store. This puzzle game will be free to download starting tomorrow. Additionally, u/MeguminShiro has some insights regarding Epic Games’ giveaways planned for the next couple of weeks. It’s said that on April 17, the store will provide in-game rewards for Firestone Online Idle RPG, a game that you can play for free. This is likely just a part of Epic Games’ plans for that date, with more details to come tomorrow at 16:00 UTC.

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  • Get Your Free Game Now on the Epic Games Store for Limited Time

    Get Your Free Game Now on the Epic Games Store for Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is updating its free game giveaway, offering “Mages of Mystralia” for free on PC.
    2. Players can still download “Garden Story” and “World War Z Aftermath” for free until the update.
    3. “Star Wars KOTOR” and “KOTOR II: The Sith Lords” are free on Android and iOS until March 20.
    4. “Mages of Mystralia” features a unique spell-crafting system and diverse puzzles, receiving a mixed reception from critics.
    5. The giveaway for “Mages of Mystralia” starts at 16:00 UTC today and ends at 15:59 UTC on March 6.

    Epic Games is set to update its free game giveaway later today. It’s important to note that this change only impacts the free PC game initiative, where players have been able to download Garden Story and World War Z Aftermath at no cost since last Thursday. In a different offer, Star Wars KOTOR and KOTOR II: The Sith Lords are available for free on Android and iOS until March 20.

    New Title Announcement

    This week, Epic Games will be offering Mages of Mystralia for free. Borealys Games has also released this title on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, where it is currently priced at $299 on Amazon. Keep in mind that Epic’s giveaway pertains specifically to the Windows version of the game, which has the following system requirements:

    Mages of Mystralia is an action-adventure game that features an intricate spell-crafting system instead of traditional weapons. The game also includes a variety of puzzles, which many reviews have noted are more diverse than the enemy types found in the game. Currently, it holds an average score of 74/100 on Metacritic and OpenCritic, with only 67% of critics recommending it. Epic Games will start the discount for Mages of Mystralia from 16:00 UTC today and it will last until 15:59 UTC on March 6.

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  • Epic Games Issues Lifetime Ban for Fortnite Cheater

    Epic Games Issues Lifetime Ban for Fortnite Cheater

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games issued a lifetime ban and fine to a player caught cheating in Fortnite, along with requiring an apology video.
    2. The fine amount was donated to charity, but the specific figure is not disclosed and might be several thousand dollars.
    3. The player’s apology video was unconventional, featuring only text on a plain white background without sound.
    4. The player, known as Repulse, shared their account with another individual, Forbes, to qualify for a tournament.
    5. Epic Games is implementing stricter measures against cheating compared to other companies, aiming for serious consequences for offenders.

    Epic Games has taken strong measures against a player who cheated in Fortnite. The individual received a lifetime ban, a fine, and was required to create an apology video for YouTube. According to an X post from Fortnite Competitive, the company donated the fine amount to charity, although the exact figure remains unspecified. Eurogamer suggests that it could be in the range of several thousand dollars.

    Unusual Apology Video

    The apology video, lasting 20 seconds, is not what you would expect from a typical YouTuber. Instead of a traditional video, it’s just text placed on a plain white background without any sound. The player, known as Repulse on YouTube, had shared their account with someone named Forbes, who assisted Repulse in qualifying for a Fortnite tournament. This incident took place in 2023, but it seems Epic Games has only just now decided to take action.

    Stricter Measures

    Epic Games’ method of combating cheating in Fortnite appears to be more targeted compared to companies like EA. While it may not completely prevent players from cheating, those caught will face serious consequences. Recently, the company also shut down Apex Legends on Linux, citing that cheaters were allegedly exploiting the platform for an unfair edge in gameplay.

    Fortnite Competitive shared this news on X.

    via Eurogamer

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