Google Follows Apple, Removes Fortnite From Google Play Store

The Epic Games versus Apple conflict adds another layer as Google bans Fortnite from the Play Store.

Fortnite developer Epic Games announced a method earlier today would allow the company to bypass a 30% tax on both Apple and Android in-app purchases.

Unfortunately for them, Apple responded swiftly with the removal of Epic’s ultra-popular Battle Royale title from their App Store. As a result, Epic Games launched a campaign that urged mobile Fortnite players to Tweet out #FreeFortnite in protest of Apple’s monumental decision.

Mere hours later, Google followed Apple’s footsteps and promptly removed Fortnite from its Google Play Store. The organization released a statement to The Verge, explaining their reason for removing Fortnite.

“The open Android ecosystem lets developers distribute apps through multiple app stores. For game developers who choose to use the Play Store, we have consistent policies that are fair to developers and keep the store safe for users. While Fortnite remains available on Android, we can no longer make it available on Play because it violates our policies. However, we welcome the opportunity to continue our discussions with Epic and bring Fortnite back to Google Play.”

Although Android users can still obtain Fortnite through the Galaxy Store, The Google Play Store is the go-to application hub for most Android users the world over. Google’s decision to remove Fortnite will increase the hit that Epic Games has already taken in its dispute with Apple.