With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to forget just how long *Fortnite* has been around. Originally launched as a zombie survival game, it transformed into a Battle Royale sensation that has captivated players globally. Here's a comprehensive look at *Fortnite*'s history and its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It might be surprising, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. The game is set to honor its rich history while also looking forward to exciting future developments.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth of Fortnite
*Fortnite* debuted with *Save the World*, a survival mode where players teamed up to build defenses against zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This mode laid the groundwork for *Fortnite* before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The Battle Royale mode propelled *Fortnite* to become a household name. Its unique building mechanic set it apart from other Battle Royale titles, fueling explosive growth in the gaming community.
The Evolution of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map, known fondly as the OG map, holds a special place in *Fortnite*'s history, driven by nostalgia and beloved Points of Interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 featured a simple yet engaging map, but it was the live events that truly captured players' imaginations. Highlights included the rocket event, Kevin the Cube, a floating ice island, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster at the end of the season. The infamous BRUTE mech also left a lasting impact, while the chapter concluded with the unforgettable black hole event.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* marked the end of its first chapter with a $30 million World Cup, drawing competitors from around the globe to determine the ultimate champion. Bugha's victory cemented his status as a top player, and following the tournament, Epic Games introduced regional seasonal championships. This allowed aspiring eSports athletes to compete in major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia, through events like FNCS and cash cups. The pinnacle of each competitive season is the Global Championship, held in various international cities.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a new map and fresh mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing, along with a variety of new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* universe further.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3 in 2022 introduced sliding and sprinting, enhancing gameplay dynamics. The Creative mode empowered players to design and share custom maps, revolutionizing player engagement. In March 2023, creators could monetize their maps, providing a new revenue stream. Addressing the steep learning curve of building, Epic Games launched Zero Build mode, allowing players to enjoy the game without the complexity of building.
Transitioning to Unreal Engine
Chapter 4, released in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, significantly enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance. This shift allowed for more detailed and vibrant experiences. Chapter 5, launched in 2024, further utilized Unreal Engine to introduce new modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. A long-awaited first-person mode was also added, altering the gameplay experience, alongside revamped movement and new features.
Worldwide Appeal
*Fortnite*'s continuous updates and compelling story arcs have made it one of the most-played games globally. The game's collaborations with major celebrities like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have kept it at the forefront of pop culture, turning *Fortnite* into a global phenomenon.
And that's the comprehensive history of *Fortnite*.
*Fortnite is available to play on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.*
