With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to forget just how long *Fortnite* has been around. Initially released as a zombie survival game that evolved into a Battle Royale phenomenon, it has become a global sensation. Let's dive into the history of *Fortnite* and discover its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It may be hard to believe, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. This milestone will undoubtedly be marked with celebrations that honor its rich history while looking forward to future adventures.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite
*Fortnite* first came into the spotlight with its survival mode, *Save the World*, where players teamed up to build defenses and battle zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This mode set the stage for what *Fortnite* was originally intended to be before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The game's true rise to fame came with the introduction of the Battle Royale mode. This mode brought a fresh twist to the genre with its building mechanic, propelling *Fortnite* to astronomical heights within the gaming community.
The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map, often referred to as the OG map, holds a special place in the hearts of many players, fueled by nostalgia and iconic locations like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 were characterized by a simple yet effective map, but it was the live events that truly captivated the audience. From the rocket launch to Kevin the Cube, a floating ice island, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster, these events were unforgettable. The infamous BRUTE mech caused quite a stir, and the black hole event marked the dramatic 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 the top players. Following this success, Epic Games established seasonal championships across regions such as NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia, featuring tournaments like FNCS and cash cups. These events provide a platform for aspiring eSports athletes to showcase their skills and gain recognition. The season culminates in the Global Championship, held in various international cities.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and introduced new mechanics like swimming, boats, and fishing, along with new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* narrative into new territories.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3 in 2022 introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing gameplay dynamics. The Creative mode allowed players to design and share custom maps, with the potential to generate revenue starting in March 2023. However, the steep learning curve associated with building posed challenges for new players. In response, Epic Games launched Zero Build, a mode without building, catering to a broader audience.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
With the release of Chapter 4 in 2023, *Fortnite* transitioned to Unreal Engine, significantly enhancing graphics, physics, and overall performance, resulting in a more immersive and vibrant gaming experience. Chapter 5, released in 2024, further showcased the power of Unreal Engine with new game modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. The long-awaited first-person mode and revamped movement mechanics transformed the gameplay experience, earning widespread appreciation for Epic Games' ongoing efforts.
Worldwide Appeal
*Fortnite*'s constant updates and engaging story have kept it at the forefront of gaming, while collaborations with global superstars like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have maintained its relevance. Live events and concerts have turned *Fortnite* into more than just a game—it's a global phenomenon.
And that's the story of *Fortnite*'s journey so far.
*Fortnite is available to play on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.*
