How successful will Epic Games be in attracting third-party games to its mobile store?

Key Strategies for Success

1. Free Games Program: Epic has introduced a free games initiative that will offer selected titles for free each month, with plans to transition to a weekly release schedule. This approach aims to drive user engagement and increase the store's visibility among potential players
2. Financial Support for Developers: To mitigate the costs associated with listing games on its platform, Epic has pledged to cover the Core Technology Fee (CTF) for developers participating in the free games program on iOS. This fee, which can be a significant barrier for developers, is imposed by Apple on apps distributed through third-party stores
3. Cross-Platform Accessibility: Epic's long-term vision includes creating a unified, cross-platform marketplace where digital assets can be accessed seamlessly across different devices. This ambition aligns with current trends in multi-platform gaming, potentially appealing to both developers and users looking for flexibility

Challenges Ahead

• Market Penetration: The mobile store has reported only 29 million installations by the end of 2024, significantly below its target of 100 million. Factors such as "mobile scare screens," which deter users from installing alternative app stores, have been cited as major obstacles
• Regulatory Environment: The success of Epic's strategy heavily relies on the enforcement of new regulations like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe, which aims to promote fair competition among app stores. Without robust enforcement, Epic may struggle to achieve its goals
• Competition from Established Stores: The entrenched positions of Apple and Google in the mobile app market present significant hurdles. Many developers may remain hesitant to switch platforms due to concerns about user reach and revenue potential

Conclusion