The iOS and Mac Versions of Fortnite Go Vibe-Free: Epic Takes Action to Make the Game Safer for Young People

It's been two and a half years since the lawsuit between Apple and Epic over Fortnite began, but the consequences of their fight are still being felt by players. As of Jan. 30, those using an outdated version of Fortnite on Apple devices will not be able to spend V-bucks on the game or play if they are under 18.

To make Fortnite a safer place for younger players, Epic Games has announced that changes will be made to the app's 13.40 build, previously available on iOS, Mac, and Google Play. These changes include restrictions on activity from accounts used by players under a certain age, as well as a ban on their spending V-bucks in the game. This was in response to Epic's violation of COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act) and misleading payment practices, which resulted in the company having to pay more than half a billion dollars in compensation.

Epic Games was quick to respond to their decision, stating that "player safety is our top priority at all times," which speaks volumes about how seriously they take player safety when it comes to the younger generations playing their games.  The new changes, which go into effect later this month, should help ensure that underage kids can't access features like spending real money on virtual currency or other items in the game that could lead them down an unhealthy path when it comes to gaming habits.

Perhaps for some, the changes will come too late, as many have been playing this version of Fortnite for a long time. But introducing new restrictions should help protect future generations from making decisions they may later regret because of a poor understanding of such systems or simple naivete about what can happen when you spend real money on a video game like Fortnite. At least now, parents will have one less problem when they let their kids play video games online - thanks, Epics!

To recap: starting January 30, users of Apple devices who have access to an outdated version of Fortnite will no longer be able to use V-Bucks and will not be allowed access if they are under 18. This move is intended to keep players safe, especially young players who may unknowingly make poor decisions by trying new features and not understanding the possible consequences. Although this change has come too late for some, Epic Games' actions should help protect future generations from risk while playing video games online.