With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to lose track of just how long *Fortnite* has been around. Originally launched as a zombie survival game that pivoted into a Battle Royale phenomenon, *Fortnite* has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Let's dive into the history of *Fortnite* and celebrate its impressive journey.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It may come as a surprise, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will be celebrating its eighth birthday. This milestone is a testament to the game's enduring appeal, promising to honor its rich history while looking forward to an exciting future.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite
*Fortnite* first burst onto the scene with *Save the World*, a cooperative survival mode where players build defenses and fend off zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This mode set the stage for what *Fortnite* was initially envisioned to be before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The introduction of the Battle Royale mode catapulted *Fortnite* into a household name. With its unique building mechanic, *Fortnite* differentiated itself in the crowded Battle Royale market, sparking unprecedented growth and a fervent fanbase.
The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map of *Fortnite* remains one of the most cherished, with nostalgia fueling much of its love. Iconic points of interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row became staples of the early seasons in Chapter 1. The live events during this period, such as the rocket launch, Kevin the cube, the floating ice island, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the mecha team leader and a monster, were unforgettable. Gameplay elements like the formidable BRUTE mech left lasting impressions, culminating in the iconic black hole event that closed out Chapter 1.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* made a significant impact in the eSports arena with the $30 million World Cup at the end of Chapter 1. The tournament saw global participation, with Bugha emerging as the champion and cementing his status as one of *Fortnite*'s top players. Following this success, Epic Games launched seasonal championships across regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia, featuring tournaments like FNCS and cash cups. These competitions provide players with opportunities to shine on the world stage, culminating in the prestigious Global Championship held in various international cities.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and new mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing. These additions, along with new weapons and skins, expanded the *Fortnite* universe significantly.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3 introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing the gameplay experience. The Creative mode empowered players to craft and share custom maps, revolutionizing player interaction. In March 2023, the introduction of revenue generation for creative map owners offered a new avenue for players to monetize their creations. To address the steep learning curve associated with building, Epic Games launched Zero Build mode, making the game more accessible to newcomers.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
With Chapter 4's release in 2023, *Fortnite* transitioned to Unreal Engine, enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance. This move allowed for smoother animations and a more vibrant gaming experience. Chapter 5, launched in 2024, further utilized Unreal Engine to introduce new game modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. The long-awaited first-person mode and revamped movement mechanics added fresh dimensions to the gameplay.
Worldwide Appeal
Continuous updates to gameplay and narrative have kept *Fortnite* at the forefront of the gaming world. The game's collaborations with global superstars like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg through live events and concerts have kept it culturally relevant. *Fortnite* has transcended the realm of gaming to become a global phenomenon.
And that's the incredible journey of *Fortnite*. Available across various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3, *Fortnite* continues to evolve and captivate players worldwide.