Epic Games CEO calls Apple and Google ‘gangster-style’ businesses in need of competition

Tech Crunch - Apr 2nd, 2025
Open on Tech Crunch

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney attacked Apple and Google for engaging in what he described as "gangster-style" business practices during a Y Combinator event. Sweeney criticized the tech giants for using tactics that he argues scare users away from Epic's software and dissuade developers from partnering with Epic. The company has been involved in legal battles against both firms, winning a case against Google but still contesting Apple's practices in court. Sweeney highlighted that tech giants often choose to pay fines rather than cease illegal practices, because it is more profitable for them.

The significance of these allegations lies in the broader context of ongoing antitrust debates and regulatory scrutiny of big tech companies. Epic Games has been a vocal critic of monopolistic practices and seeks to change how app distribution is controlled on major platforms. Sweeney's comments bring attention to the challenges smaller companies face when competing against tech giants, especially in light of self-preferencing and high fees. His remarks call for stricter enforcement of regulations to ensure fair competition in the tech ecosystem, which could have far-reaching implications for app developers and consumers alike.

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RATING

6.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article effectively captures the essence of Tim Sweeney's criticisms against Apple and Google, providing a clear account of Epic Games' legal battles and the challenges faced by smaller developers. However, it falls short in terms of balance and source quality, as it predominantly relies on Sweeney's perspective without incorporating responses or counterarguments from the tech companies involved. The story is timely and relevant, addressing significant public interest topics related to monopolistic practices and digital market regulation. While the clarity and readability of the article are commendable, the lack of diverse viewpoints and comprehensive analysis limits its overall impact and engagement potential. The controversial nature of the subject matter adds to the story's potential to provoke debate, but ethical considerations regarding balanced reporting should be addressed to enhance its credibility.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that align with known events, such as Epic Games' legal battles with Apple and Google. The assertion that Epic won its case against Google but not against Apple is accurate, as is the mention of the court requiring Apple to allow developers to link to other purchasing mechanisms. However, the claim that Apple and Google operate as 'gangster-style businesses' is subjective and not directly verifiable. The story accurately reflects Tim Sweeney's statements and the ongoing legal context, but some claims, particularly those regarding financial impacts and user behavior, require further verification. For instance, the specific drop-off rates due to 'scare screens' need supporting data.

6
Balance

The article predominantly presents the perspective of Tim Sweeney and Epic Games, highlighting their grievances against Apple and Google. While it effectively captures Sweeney's criticisms, it lacks a balanced view by not including responses or counterarguments from Apple or Google. This omission could lead to a perception of bias, as it does not offer readers a comprehensive understanding of the situation from all involved parties. Including statements or context from the tech companies would enhance the story's balance.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, effectively conveying the key points of Tim Sweeney's criticisms and the broader context of Epic Games' disputes with Apple and Google. The language is straightforward, making it accessible to a general audience. However, some technical aspects, such as the specific legal outcomes and the implications of the court rulings, could be explained more thoroughly to enhance understanding.

5
Source quality

The story relies heavily on Tim Sweeney's statements, which are credible given his position but also inherently biased. There is a lack of diverse sourcing, as no independent experts or third-party analysts are cited to provide additional context or verification of the claims. The reliance on a single source limits the depth and reliability of the information presented, as it does not cross-reference with other authoritative voices or data.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear account of Tim Sweeney's statements and the context of Epic Games' legal battles. However, it lacks transparency in terms of explaining the basis for some of the more technical claims, such as the exact nature of the 'scare screens' and their impact on user behavior. There is also no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or biases that might influence Sweeney's statements. Greater transparency about the methodology behind the claims would enhance the article's credibility.

Sources

  1. https://www.businesstoday.in/technology/news/story/big-tech-leaders-are-pretending-to-be-republicans-epic-games-ceo-criticises-meta-google-apples-support-for-trump-460514-2025-01-13
  2. https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/tim-sweeney-says-epic-is-spending-billions-fighting-apple-and-google-because-it-can-jokes-that-we-might-run-into-serious-financial-problems-after-a-couple-more-decades/
  3. https://www.ign.com/articles/tim-sweeney-says-epic-can-afford-to-keep-spending-billions-fighting-apple-and-google-for-the-future-of-fortnite-on-mobile-for-decades-to-come
  4. https://www.patentlyapple.com/2025/04/speaking-at-an-industry-event-earlier-today-epic-games-ceo-reportedly-stated-that-crime-pays-for-apple-and-google.html