With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it’s easy to overlook just how long *Fortnite* has been captivating gamers worldwide. Originally launched as a cooperative zombie survival game, *Fortnite* quickly pivoted to become a Battle Royale phenomenon, cementing its place as a global sensation. Let's dive into the history of *Fortnite* and explore its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It might come as a surprise, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will be celebrating its eighth birthday. The game’s anniversary is always a grand affair, promising to celebrate its rich history while looking forward to future innovations.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite
*Fortnite* first hit the scene with *Save the World*, a survival mode where players teamed up to fend off zombie-like "husks" by building defenses. This initial concept laid the groundwork for what *Fortnite* was meant to be before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The true breakthrough for *Fortnite* came with the introduction of its Battle Royale mode. This mode not only embraced the classic Battle Royale format but also introduced the innovative building mechanic, setting *Fortnite* apart and fueling its explosive growth in the gaming community.
The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map of *Fortnite* holds a special place in the hearts of players, not just for nostalgia but also for its iconic Points of Interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 were marked by a simple yet effective map and unforgettable live events, including the rocket launch, Kevin the Cube, floating ice islands, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster. The controversial BRUTE mech also made its mark, challenging players significantly. The chapter culminated with the iconic black hole event, marking the end of an era.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* made a monumental impact on eSports with its first chapter ending in a $30 million World Cup, where Bugha emerged as the champion, solidifying his status as one of the game's top players. Following this success, Epic Games launched the Fortnite Championship Series (FNCS) and various regional tournaments, offering players a chance to compete and shine on the global stage. Major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia now host numerous competitive events, leading up to the prestigious Global Championship held in different cities worldwide.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 ushered in a new map and fresh mechanics like swimming, boats, and fishing, alongside new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* universe significantly.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3 introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing gameplay dynamics. The Creative mode became a game-changer, allowing players to design and share their custom maps. In March 2023, Epic Games enabled map creators to earn revenue, revolutionizing the Creative mode's potential. Addressing the steep learning curve of building, Epic introduced Zero Build mode, catering to new players by removing the building aspect.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
Chapter 4 in 2023 marked the transition to Unreal Engine, elevating *Fortnite* with enhanced graphics, physics, and a more immersive experience. Chapter 5, released in 2024, brought new game modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*, along with the long-awaited first-person mode and revamped movement mechanics.
Worldwide Appeal
Continuous updates and compelling story arcs have made *Fortnite* one of the most-played games globally. Collaborations with global icons like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have kept the game fresh and culturally relevant. *Fortnite* has transcended gaming to become a cultural phenomenon.
*Fortnite* is available on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3, ensuring its accessibility to a broad audience.
