With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to overlook just how long *Fortnite* has been around. Originally launched as a zombie survival game that evolved into a Battle Royale phenomenon, it has become a global sensation. Let's dive into the rich history of *Fortnite* and discover just how old it is.
It might be hard to believe, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will be celebrating its eighth birthday. This milestone will not only look to the future but will also pay homage to the game's storied past.
*Fortnite* burst onto the scene with *Save the World*, a survival mode where players teamed up to build defenses against zombie-like creatures called "husks." This was the original vision for *Fortnite* before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
The real game-changer for *Fortnite* was the introduction of its Battle Royale mode. This mode brought a fresh twist to the classic Battle Royale format with its unique building mechanic, propelling *Fortnite* to unprecedented heights in the gaming world.
The original map, fondly remembered by many, is a testament to the nostalgia and love players have for *Fortnite*. The early seasons of Chapter 1 featured a straightforward yet captivating map with iconic locations like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The live events during this chapter were particularly memorable, from the rocket event to Kevin the Cube, floating ice islands, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster. The BRUTE, a controversial addition, challenged players, while the black hole event marked a dramatic end to an incredible chapter.
*Fortnite* concluded Chapter 1 with a bang by hosting a $30 million World Cup, where players from around the globe competed to determine the ultimate champion. Bugha's victory at this tournament cemented his status as one of *Fortnite*'s top players. Following this, Epic Games introduced regional seasonal championships, enabling aspiring professionals to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams in the eSports arena. Today, major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia host various tournaments such as FNCS and cash cups, culminating in the prestigious Global Championship held in different cities worldwide each season.
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and innovative mechanics like swimming, boats, and fishing, along with new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* universe even further.
Chapter 3, released in 2022, introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing gameplay dynamics. The Creative mode allowed players to craft their own games and maps, which could be shared with the community or kept private. In March 2023, the ability to monetize creative maps opened up new revenue streams for creators. To address the steep learning curve associated with building, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode, catering to players who preferred a non-building experience.
Chapter 4, launched in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, significantly enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance, offering a more immersive experience. Chapter 5, released in 2024, continued to build on this foundation, introducing new game modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*, along with the much-anticipated first-person mode, which revolutionized the gameplay experience.
Ongoing updates to gameplay and storylines have kept *Fortnite* at the forefront of the gaming world. The game's collaborations with global icons like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg through live events and concerts have kept it fresh and relevant. *Fortnite* has transcended being just a game; it's a global phenomenon.
And that's the comprehensive history of *Fortnite*. The game is available on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.