With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to overlook just how long *Fortnite* has been captivating players worldwide. Initially launched as a zombie survival game, it swiftly transformed into a Battle Royale phenomenon, becoming a global sensation. Let's delve into the history of *Fortnite* and celebrate its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It might surprise you, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will be celebrating its eighth birthday. The game's anniversary is an opportunity to look forward while cherishing its rich history.
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 build defenses and fend off zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This was the original vision for *Fortnite* 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. Its unique twist on the genre was the inclusion of building mechanics, which fueled 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 players' hearts, driven by nostalgia and the beloved Points of Interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 featured a straightforward yet engaging map, but it was the live events that truly captured the community's imagination. From the rocket event and Kevin the cube to floating ice islands, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the mecha team leader and a monster, these events were unforgettable. The notorious BRUTE mech and the climactic black hole event marked the end of an incredible chapter.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* concluded Chapter 1 with a bang by hosting the $30 million World Cup, drawing competitors from around the globe to determine the ultimate champion. Bugha emerged as the victor, cementing his status as one of *Fortnite*'s top players. Following this success, Epic Games launched seasonal championships across various regions, providing a platform for aspiring eSports athletes to shine. Today, major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia host numerous tournaments, including FNCS and cash cups, culminating in the prestigious Global Championship held in different cities worldwide.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and innovative mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing, along with new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* universe.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3, released in 2022, introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing the gameplay experience. The Creative mode empowered players to design and share custom maps, and in March 2023, creators could monetize their maps. To address the steep learning curve associated with building, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode, allowing players to enjoy the game without the building aspect.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
Chapter 4, launched in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, elevating the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance for a more immersive experience. Chapter 5, released in 2024, further showcased the capabilities of Unreal Engine with new modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. The long-awaited first-person mode and revamped movement mechanics added new dimensions to the gameplay.
Worldwide Appeal
Ongoing updates and a compelling storyline have kept *Fortnite* at the forefront of the gaming world. Collaborations with global icons like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have kept the game fresh and relevant. *Fortnite* has transcended beyond just a game; it's a global phenomenon.
And that's the journey of *Fortnite* so far. The game continues to evolve and entertain on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.