How to Get Fortnite on iPad

How to Get Fortnite on iPad

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Fortnite, the globally popular battle royale game, has faced significant hurdles on iOS devices since its removal from the App Store in 2020. This was the result of a legal battle between Epic Games and Apple over in-app payment systems. While the game is no longer officially available for download on iPads, dedicated players have found creative workarounds to continue playing. This guide explores all current methods to install and play Fortnite on your iPad, including cloud gaming, sideloading, and re-downloading legacy versions.

Why Fortnite Isn’t on the App Store

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why Fortnite isn’t available on the App Store. In August 2020, Epic Games introduced a direct payment system in Fortnite to bypass Apple’s 30% commission fee. Apple responded by removing the game for violating its guidelines. The ensuing lawsuit has left Fortnite inaccessible to new iOS users for years. While the legal battle continues, here’s how you can still play the game on your iPad.

Method 1: Play Fortnite via Xbox Cloud Gaming (Free)

Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) allows users to stream Fortnite directly to their iPad via a web browser, no subscription required. Microsoft partnered with Epic Games in 2022 to make Fortnite free on the platform.

Steps to Play:

  1. Ensure Compatibility:
    • iPad running iPadOS 14.4 or later.
    • A stable internet connection (10 Mbps minimum).
    • A Microsoft account (create one here if needed).
    • A Bluetooth controller (optional; touch controls are supported).
  2. Access Xbox Cloud Gaming:
    • Open Safari on your iPad and go to Xbox.com/play.
    • Tap the “Share” button (square with arrow) and select Add to Home Screen for easy access.
  3. Sign In and Play:
    • Log in with your Microsoft account.
    • Search for “Fortnite” in the game library and select it.
    • The game will load in your browser. Use touch controls or connect a controller.

Pros:

  • Free to play.
  • No downloads or storage required.
  • Cross-platform progression (link your Epic account).

Cons:

  • Requires a strong internet connection.
  • Slight input lag depending on network speed.

Method 2: Use NVIDIA GeForce NOW

GeForce NOW is a cloud gaming service that streams Fortnite to your iPad. It requires an Epic Games account and a GeForce NOW membership (free tier available).

Steps to Play:

  1. Sign Up for GeForce NOW:
  2. Link Your Epic Games Account:
    • Open GeForce NOW settings and connect your Epic account under “Linked Accounts.”
  3. Play via Safari:

Pros:

  • Free tier available (with session time limits).
  • High-quality graphics.

Cons:

  • Longer wait times on the free tier.
  • Requires a subscription for priority access.

Method 3: Re-Download a Previously Installed Version

If you downloaded Fortnite on your iPad before its removal, you can reinstall it from your purchase history.

Steps:

  1. Open the App Store and tap your profile icon.
  2. Go to Purchased > My Purchases.
  3. Search for “Fortnite” and tap the download icon (☁️).

Note:

  • The game will be version 13.40, the last iOS-compatible update.
  • You can play offline modes like “Save the World,” but online multiplayer is disabled.

Method 4: Sideload Fortnite (Advanced, EU Only)

With iOS 17.4, Apple allows sideloading via third-party app stores in the EU. If your iPad is registered in an EU country, follow these steps:

Steps:

  1. Install a Third-Party App Store:
  2. Enable Sideloading:
    • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Developer Mode and enable it.
  3. Download Fortnite:
    • Use the third-party store to install Fortnite.

Caveats:

  • Limited to EU users.
  • Apps may be revoked if Apple detects policy violations.

Method 5: Use a Remote Desktop App

Stream Fortnite from a PC or console to your iPad using apps like Steam Link or Moonlight.

Steps:

  1. Install the remote desktop app on your iPad and gaming device.
  2. Connect both devices to the same network.
  3. Stream Fortnite from your PC/console to the iPad.

Pros:

  • Full access to updated Fortnite.

Cons:

  • Requires a powerful gaming setup.
  • Input lag and quality depend on your network.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Poor Streaming Quality: Lower the resolution in your cloud service settings.
  • Input Lag: Use a wired Ethernet connection for your gaming device or move closer to your router.
  • Account Syncing: Ensure your Epic Games account is linked to your Xbox/GeForce NOW account.

The Future of Fortnite on iPad

Epic Games has announced plans to bring Fortnite back to iOS via the Epic Games Store in 2024, pending regulatory approval. This would allow direct downloads in the EU and potentially other regions.

Conclusion

While Fortnite’s absence from the App Store is frustrating, methods like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW offer seamless workarounds. For most users, streaming via Xbox is the easiest and cheapest option. EU residents can also explore sideloading once third-party stores launch. Keep an eye on Epic’s announcements for official iOS support in the future!

Final Tips:

  • Use a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network for smoother streaming.
  • Invest in a mobile gaming controller for better precision.
  • Regularly check Epic Games’ social media for updates.

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