Free Epic Games – September 28, 2023

Epic Games, the developer of the popular game Fortnite, has been locked in a fierce legal battle with Apple, the tech giant that runs the iOS App Store. The dispute started in August 2020, when Epic Games introduced its own payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission fee on in-app purchases. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store, accusing Epic Games of violating its terms of service. Epic Games then sued Apple, alleging that Apple’s practices are monopolistic and anticompetitive, and seeking to open up the iOS platform to other app stores and payment methods.

The trial, which took place in May 2021, lasted for three weeks and featured testimonies from both sides’ executives, experts, and witnesses. The judge, Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, had to weigh the arguments and evidence on several complex issues, such as the definition of the relevant market, the impact of Apple’s policies on consumers and developers, and the potential remedies for the alleged antitrust violations. On September 10, 2021, Judge Rogers issued her ruling, which was mixed for both parties.

On one hand, Judge Rogers decided in favor of Apple on nine out of ten counts, finding that Apple is not a monopoly and did not engage in antitrust behavior. She rejected Epic Games’ claims that Apple’s App Store is an essential facility that should be accessible to all developers on fair terms. She also dismissed Epic Games’ request for injunctive relief that would force Apple to allow other app stores and payment methods on iOS devices.

On the other hand, Judge Rogers found against Apple on one count, ruling that Apple’s conduct in enforcing anti-steering restrictions is anticompetitive. Anti-steering restrictions are rules that prevent app developers from informing users of alternative payment options outside of the App Store. Judge Rogers ordered Apple to stop imposing these restrictions and allow developers to include links or buttons that direct users to other websites where they can make payments. She also ordered Epic Games to pay damages to Apple for breaching its contract, amounting to 30% of the revenue it collected from its direct payment system from August 2020 to October 2020.

Both parties were dissatisfied with the ruling and filed appeals. Epic Games appealed the entire decision, arguing that it did not achieve its goal of ending Apple’s “total control” over the iOS app distribution and payment markets. Apple appealed the part of the decision that prohibited its anti-steering restrictions, claiming that it would harm its business model and user experience. The appeals process could take years to resolve, and the outcome could have significant implications for the future of the mobile app industry.

While the legal battle continues, Epic Games fans can cheer up with some free games from the Epic Games Store. Every week, Epic Games offers one or more games for free to its users, as part of its strategy to attract more customers and compete with other platforms like Steam. This week, users can download two games for free: Model Builder and Soulstice.

Model Builder is a simulation game that lets you create realistic models of planes, tanks, ships, figures, and more. You can cut out, assemble, paint, and customize your models with various tools and paints. You can also sell your creations for profit or display them in stunning scenes. Model Builder is a game for hobbyists and enthusiasts who enjoy crafting and creativity.

Soulstice is an action-adventure game that follows the story of two sisters who have been transformed into chimera, super soldiers who can fight against spectral entities that threaten their world. You can control both sisters simultaneously, using melee attacks and combos as Briar and otherworldly abilities as Lute. You can also combine their strengths to unlock powerful transformations and tap into their true potential. Soulstice is a game for fans of hack-and-slash games with fast-paced combat and spectacular boss fights.

You can get Model Builder and Soulstice for free until October 6th by visiting the Epic Games Store website or using the Epic Games Launcher app. Don’t miss this opportunity to add these games to your library and enjoy them at your leisure. And stay tuned for more updates on the Epic Games vs Apple lawsuit as it unfolds.