With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to overlook just how long *Fortnite* has been a part of the gaming world. Originally launched as a cooperative zombie survival game, it transformed into a global sensation with its Battle Royale mode. This article explores the history of *Fortnite* and its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It might be surprising to learn that by July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. The game is sure to mark this milestone with celebrations that honor its past while looking forward to the future.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite
*Fortnite* initially debuted as *Save the World*, a survival mode where players teamed up to build defenses and fend off zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This was the original concept before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The introduction of the Battle Royale mode truly propelled *Fortnite* into the spotlight. Unlike traditional Battle Royale games, *Fortnite* added a unique building mechanic, which fueled its explosive growth in the gaming community.
The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map from Chapter 1 remains a beloved part of *Fortnite*'s history, with its nostalgic appeal and iconic locations like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 featured a simple yet effective map, but it was the live events that truly captivated players. Memorable moments included the rocket launch, Kevin the Cube, a floating ice island, volcanic eruptions, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster. The infamous BRUTE mech caused frustration among players, and the chapter concluded with the iconic black hole event.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* concluded Chapter 1 with the $30 million World Cup, bringing together top players from around the globe. Bugha emerged as the champion, marking the beginning of his reign as one of the game's top players. Following this, Epic Games introduced regional seasonal championships, allowing aspiring pros to showcase their skills and pursue a career in esports. Today, major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia host numerous tournaments, including FNCS and cash cups, culminating in the international Global Championship held in cities worldwide.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and new mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing, alongside an array of new weapons and skins. This chapter further expanded *Fortnite*'s narrative and gameplay possibilities.
Carrying the Momentum
In 2022, Chapter 3 introduced mechanics like sliding and sprinting, along with the Creative mode, which allowed players to design and share custom maps. By March 2023, creators could monetize their maps, offering a new revenue stream. To address the steep learning curve associated with building, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode, catering to players who preferred gameplay without building.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
Chapter 4, released in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance. This transition brought a more detailed and vibrant experience to players. Chapter 5, launched in 2024, continued to leverage Unreal Engine, introducing new modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. Additionally, the long-awaited first-person mode and revamped movement mechanics were introduced, significantly altering the gameplay experience.
Worldwide Appeal
Ongoing updates to gameplay and story, coupled with impressive collaborations, have kept *Fortnite* at the forefront of gaming. Live events and virtual concerts featuring global stars like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have elevated *Fortnite* beyond just a game to a cultural phenomenon.
And that encapsulates the rich history of *Fortnite*.
*Fortnite is available to play on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.*