As the popularity of Fortnite Battle Royale continues to soar, Epic Games takes the next step and bring its popular shooter to compatible iOS devices.
The developer previously announced its plans to bring the game to several platforms other than game consoles and the PC. Sources now confirmed that users no longer need an invite to download the game.
However, the only caveat, at the moment, is that the mobile version will only work on newer Apple gadgets like the iPhone SE, iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, iPhone 8, and iPhone X. Meanwhile, for tablets, it should be compatible with the iPad Mini 4, iPad Air 2, and the latest iPad models including the Pro lineup.
Official Announcement From Game Studio
The news of the game's availability for compatible iOS devices first surfaced on Twitter. Furthermore, the developer noted that all users can access the game as long as it is supported by their mobile device.
Last month, users were required to sign up on the game's official website for a chance to get an invite to download the app. Another way to get an invite code is to have a friend, who is already invited, send one to another user.
No invite needed - Fortnite is now open everywhere on iOS. Grab your friends and jump in now! https://t.co/qU3S8QAQ9K — Fortnite (@FortniteGame) April 2, 2018
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Epic Games also announced its plans to allow players on different platforms to fight against each other. Yet, there are some limitations intentionally implemented to keep the matchmaking balanced.
Unfortunately, Sony did not officially confirm if it has approved cross-play with Microsoft's game systems. On the other hand, the Redmond-based company expressed its desire to open its networks to allow cross-platform gameplay.
Last year, there was a short instance wherein the server configurations were mixed up and players on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 were unintentionally matched against each other. Industry experts quickly pointed fingers at the Japanese game company due to its claim that challenges with network connectivity were the reason for its refusal to allow cross-platform compatibility.
Meanwhile, Fortnite Battle Royale players on mobile platforms like iOS and eventually Android, are allowed to opt-in to let the system match them up with console players. However, it does not apply the other way around.
Epic Games cited that gamers on consoles and the PC already have an advantage when it comes to controllers since those on mobile devices need to rely on touch-screen controls.
Works with: iPhone SE, 6S, 7, 8, X; iPad Mini 4, Air 2, 2017, Pro. Fortnite DOES NOT support: iPhone 5S, 6, 6 Plus; iPad Air, Mini 2, Mini 3, iPod Touch — Fortnite (@FortniteGame) April 2, 2018
Tips For Players On Mobile Devices
Gamers of Fortnite Battle Royale who are on their mobile devices should be aware of the limitations of the touch-screen controls. In some occasions, the user's fingers on the screen can cover important visual cues that can mean life or death. Moreover, being matched up against others who are on PC and consoles bumps up the handicap even further.
Epic Games is aware of these challenges and it tweaked some gameplay features that are exclusively available on the mobile version only. These are meant to give users a fighting chance to enjoy the intense battles the title is known for. Since aiming-down-sights slows down mobility, players are encouraged to practice hip-fire to remain agile or crouch and fire to gain accuracy but sacrifice movement speed a little.
Sound cues are important to locate the enemy, so the use of headphones is an advantage. The mobile version also comes with visual cues that can compensate for situations wherein headphones are not available and full volume gameplay is impossible.
Gamers should remember that most of the others on mobile devices also have the same handicap. Therefore, with practice, they should have an advantage over other players.
