Fortnite Is Coming Back to the iPhone | Will It Come to Mac?

After nearly five years, Fortnite’s return to the iOS App Store is imminent. This follows a US court ruling that mandates Apple must allow developers to direct users to alternative payment systems, effectively challenging Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. In response, Epic Games has submitted Fortnite for App Store review, signaling its likely return in the coming days — if Apple approves it.

The Mac Dilemma: No Clear Path

While iOS users anticipate Fortnite’s return, Mac gamers face a different scenario. According to Epic Games, Apple “terminated” Epic’s ability to develop Fortnite for macOS in 2020, and the game has not received updates on the platform since. Currently, playing Fortnite on Mac requires cloud-streaming services, as native support remains unavailable.

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Cloud Gaming: A Workaround, Not a Solution

Mac and iOS users can access Fortnite through cloud gaming platforms like GeForce NOW, Playstation Remote Play, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. These services allow streaming the game via web browsers or dedicated apps, providing a workaround to the lack of native support. However, this solution depends on a stable internet connection and may not match the performance of a native application.

What About Running Windows on Mac?

It is possible to run Windows and some Windows applications on macOS using virtualization tools like Parallels or compatibility layers such as Whisky. Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit 2 (GPTK 2) has made it easier for developers — and even some users — to run or port Windows games to macOS.

However, Fortnite relies on anti-cheat software that is not compatible with macOS. Even with tools like Parallels or GPTK 2, the game’s anti-cheat requirements prevent it from launching. As a result, Fortnite for Windows cannot run on macOS, even using these workarounds.

Looking Ahead

The return of Fortnite to iOS marks a significant shift in the digital marketplace, potentially influencing app distribution and platform control. However, for Mac users, the game’s future remains uncertain. Until Epic and Apple resolve their differences regarding macOS support, Mac gamers may have to rely on cloud gaming or alternative platforms to play Fortnite.

In short, while iPhone users can look forward to Fortnite’s imminent return, Mac users continue to face limitations and restrictions, that highlight the ongoing complexities in the relationship between Epic Games and Apple.

Community Voice

The reality is that unless Apple and Epic come to an agreement — or unless Apple changes its policies — Mac users may remain on the sidelines. While the gaming community has influence and has pushed companies to change course in the past, it’s unlikely that community pressure alone will lead to a full Fortnite comeback on macOS.

That said, if enough players speak up, and if the demand is loud enough, it could help shift priorities. Whether that’s enough to sway two tech giants locked in a years-long battle remains to be seen.

As of now, it’s unlikely Fortnite will return to Mac, at least not without Apple’s blessing or a different approach from Epic Games.