Apple has blocked the attempt to bring Fortnite back to iPhone and iPad devices, effectively removing the popular battle royale game from iOS platforms worldwide — even in the European Union, where it recently reappeared.

The announcement was made on Fortnite's official account on X, where Epic Games stated:

Apple has blocked our Fortnite submission so we cannot release to the US App Store or to the Epic Games Store for iOS in the European Union. Now, sadly, Fortnite on iOS will be offline worldwide until Apple unblocks it.

Epic Games

Reasons for Blocking Fortnite's Return to the App Store

Currently, it is not entirely clear what specifically caused the rejection from the App Store. For now, the game is no longer available through the Epic Games Store or the alternative AltStore PAL platform in the EU.

This move came after Epic's attempt last week to resubmit Fortnite to the American App Store following a federal court ruling that prohibited Apple from blocking links to external payment systems — a key issue in their long-standing legal battle. Epic withdrew the first application after five days without a response and submitted a new version on May 14.

Why Apple Removed Fortnite from the App Store

Apple first banned Fortnite in 2020 after Epic implemented its own payment system, bypassing the App Store's 30% commission. This led to a high-profile lawsuit, which, although not a complete victory for Epic, forced Apple to allow developers to inform users about alternative payment methods.

Despite Apple's appeal of this decision, it remains in effect, and Epic used it as a basis for resubmitting the game. Due to the blocking of the American developer account back in 2020, Epic used a Swedish subsidiary to submit the game — which likely further complicated the review process.

Accusations and Community Reaction

Epic's CEO Tim Sweeney publicly criticized Apple's app review process, calling it a "weapon in the hands of top management," especially considering that Fortnite clones have already appeared in the App Store, while the original game remains blocked. "Apple is deliberately stalling Fortnite," he stated.

Sweeney also emphasized that all platforms should be updated simultaneously due to the release of a major content update, putting even more pressure on Apple.

Players worldwide are surprised and frustrated by this situation, as millions of fans may once again be left without access to their favorite game on their preferred devices.

In comments under the post on X (Twitter), users are tagging the official @Apple and @tim_cook accounts to express their dissatisfaction and expedite Apple's management response regarding the game's unblocking.

Some haters or just disgruntled players write insulting comments towards Apple, making jokes about the company. Some even create memes or ask Epic Games to bring back the "evil version" of the apple skin Tart Tycoon — as a mockery of the unfriendly company.

Regulatory Pressure and Broader Implications

The situation is being closely monitored by EU regulators, where Apple falls under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires permission for third-party app stores. Epic took advantage of this opportunity to re-release Fortnite through its own app store in Europe — at least until now.

The removal of Fortnite even from European platforms raises questions about Apple's compliance with the DMA and whether regulatory bodies will intervene.

What Are the Consequences of This Conflict?

It is currently unknown when — or if — Apple will allow Fortnite's return. iOS users worldwide remain without access to one of the most popular games, while Android users and European desktop players can play without restrictions.