From humble beginnings as a zombie survival game to a global phenomenon, Fortnite's journey is a testament to its enduring appeal. Let's explore the game's history and its impressive longevity.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
Believe it or not, Fortnite will celebrate its eighth anniversary in July 2025! This milestone promises exciting celebrations looking towards the future while honoring its rich past.
The Complete Fortnite Timeline:
Fortnite initially launched as Save the World, a co-op survival game where players built defenses and fought off zombie-like creatures called "husks." This mode laid the groundwork for the game's future success.
The introduction of the Battle Royale mode catapulted Fortnite to global fame. Its unique building mechanic set it apart, driving its phenomenal growth in the gaming world.
Fortnite has continuously evolved since its release, introducing new weapons, mechanics, and features to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.
Chapter 1's original map, with iconic locations like Tilted Towers and Retail Row, remains beloved by many. Memorable live events, including the rocket launch, Kevin the Cube, and the black hole event, defined this era. The overpowered BRUTE mech also left a lasting (and frustrating) impression on players.
Fortnite's first chapter culminated in a $30 million World Cup, showcasing the game's global competitive scene. Bugha's victory marked a pivotal moment, establishing Fortnite as a major esport with regional championships and the annual Global Championship.
Chapter 2 introduced a new map, innovative mechanics like swimming and boating, and expanded the game's narrative.
Chapter 3 brought sliding and sprinting, while Creative Mode empowered players to create and share custom maps, even generating revenue. Addressing the building skill curve, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode.
Chapter 4 leveraged the power of Unreal Engine, resulting in enhanced graphics, physics, and overall performance. Chapter 5 further built upon this, introducing new game modes like Rocket Racing, LEGO Fortnite, and Fortnite Festival, along with the highly anticipated first-person mode.
Consistent updates, compelling storylines, and high-profile collaborations with global superstars (Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, Snoop Dogg) have solidified Fortnite's status as a global cultural phenomenon.
Fortnite is available across multiple platforms, including Meta Quest 2 and 3.