With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to lose sight of just how long *Fortnite* has been captivating gamers worldwide. Originally launched as a cooperative zombie survival game, *Fortnite* swiftly evolved into a Battle Royale phenomenon, cementing its place in gaming culture. Let's delve into the history of *Fortnite* and uncover its age.
How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
As we approach July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. This milestone will not only look forward to the future but also honor the rich history that has made *Fortnite* a household name.
The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth of Fortnite
*Fortnite* first came into the spotlight with its survival mode, *Save the World*. 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 transformation of *Fortnite* into a global sensation can be attributed to its Battle Royale mode. What set it apart was the innovative building mechanic, which fueled its explosive growth within the gaming community.
The Evolution of Fortnite Battle Royale
The Beginning
The original map of *Fortnite*, fondly remembered as the OG map, holds a special place in the hearts of players. Its nostalgic charm and iconic points of interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row are beloved by many. The early seasons of Chapter 1 were marked by a simple yet effective map, but it was the live events that truly captivated players. From the rocket launch to Kevin the Cube, floating ice islands, volcanoes, and epic showdowns like the Mecha Team Leader versus a monster, these events were unforgettable. The notorious BRUTE mech and the climactic black hole event rounded off 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. Bugha emerged as the champion, becoming one of the game's first superstars. Following this, 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 introduced new mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing, along with a host of new weapons and skins, expanding the *Fortnite* universe.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3, launched 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 even monetize their maps. To address the steep learning curve associated with building, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode, catering to players who preferred a building-free experience.
Transitioning to Unreal Engine
Chapter 4, released in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, significantly enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance. Chapter 5, launched 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 fresh dimensions to the gameplay.
Worldwide Appeal
Continuous updates to gameplay and story, coupled with impressive collaborations, have kept *Fortnite* at the forefront of the gaming world. Live events and concerts featuring global icons like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have transformed *Fortnite* into more than just a game—it's a cultural phenomenon.
And that's the journey of *Fortnite* so far. Available on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3, *Fortnite* continues to evolve and entertain millions around the globe.
