Lance Whitney
Updated on: October 16, 2024 3:10 pm GMT
The Epic Games Store is expanding, and its mobile version is gearing up for an exciting launch. With plans to introduce a range of new features, the company is eager to create a more engaging experience for users across different devices.
Social Features for Enhanced User Experience
Epic Games acknowledges that its social features lack the appeal found in other platforms. Store boss Steve Allison openly admitted, “Our social features on PC suck.” To improve this, Epic plans to integrate a “social framework” similar to what users enjoy on gaming consoles and Steam. This means players will have a chance to connect with friends across different devices, extending chat and social functions beyond just Fortnite.
Timeline for New Features
These new social features aren’t coming out immediately. Epic has stated that users may have to wait until after summer 2025 to experience them. However, there’s plenty happening sooner.
Free Games and Developer Incentives
One significant update is the introduction of Epic’s free games program to mobile devices, expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2023. While on PC, users enjoy weekly free games, the mobile rollout may start slower. Allison hinted that initially, free games might not be available every week, but a weekly schedule could follow once self-publishing tools are in place in early 2025.
Challenges with Apple and Android
- Some free games may only launch on Android due to fees from Apple.
- These fees could create difficulties for developers, affecting their ability to pay for usage.
Third-Party Games and Launch Plans
Along with free games, third-party titles will make an appearance in the mobile Epic Games Store. Allison has set expectations for a release date in December 2023. He mentioned a broad range for the initial lineup, aiming for between 10 to 50 games available at launch.
Payment Challenges
One major factor influencing game availability is payment processing. Many mobile developers depend on Google and Apple’s systems, leading to discussions about adopting Epic’s payment methods. Allison described this as a key “gating factor” for unlocking mobile game content.
Growth and User Base
Despite these challenges, Epic Games is experiencing growth. In September, it reported a record of 70 million monthly active users. At the launch of the mobile store in August, the goal was to reach 100 million net new installs by the end of the year. However, Epic has currently seen only 10 million mobile installs.
Future Outlook
While Epic’s ambitious goals may not be met this year, Allison believes the upcoming features could motivate more users to explore the mobile store. He noted, “With the friction, getting to that 100 million installs by the end of the year is likely impossible.”
Conclusion
Epic Games is working hard to make its mobile store better for gamers. They are adding fun social features, offering free games, and including games from other developers. Epic hopes these changes will give everyone a better experience. It will be interesting to see how gamers like these updates. The next few years are very important for Epic Games, and their plans could change online gaming for the better.
