With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to forget just how long *Fortnite* has been around. Initially launched as a zombie survival game that evolved into a Battle Royale sensation, it has captivated a global audience. Here's a dive into the history of *Fortnite* and how old it truly is.
Recommended Videos How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?
It might come as a surprise, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. This milestone will not only honor its rich history but also look forward to the exciting future ahead.
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The Full Fortnite Timeline
Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite
*Fortnite* burst onto 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 of *Fortnite* before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.
Entering the Battle Royale World
The game became a household name with the introduction of Battle Royale mode. The unique twist of incorporating building mechanics set Fortnite apart, fueling its meteoric rise in the gaming world.
The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale
Since its launch, *Fortnite* has undergone significant evolution, with new weapons and mechanics continuously refreshing the gameplay experience.
The Beginning
The original map, affectionately known as the "OG map", remains a fan favorite, steeped in nostalgia with iconic locations like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons of Chapter 1 featured a simple yet captivating map, but it was the live events that stole the show. From the rocket event 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 a stir among players, while the black hole event marked the dramatic end of an incredible chapter.
Taking Over the eSports World
*Fortnite* capped off its first chapter with a $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 game's elite. Following this landmark event, 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 such as FNCS and cash cups, culminating in the prestigious Global Championship held in cities worldwide.
A New Chapter
Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and innovative mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing. Alongside new weapons and skins, Epic Games expanded the *Fortnite* narrative into new territories.
Carrying the Momentum
Chapter 3 arrived in 2022, introducing features like sliding and sprinting. The Creative mode empowered players to design and share their custom games and maps. In March 2023, creators could monetize their maps, opening up new earning opportunities. However, the building mechanic posed a steep learning curve for newcomers. To address this, Epic Games introduced Zero Build mode, allowing players to enjoy the game without the pressure of building.
Transitioning To Unreal Engine
Chapter 4, released in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine to enhance the game's graphics, physics, animations, and overall performance, delivering a more vivid and immersive experience. Chapter 5, launched in 2024, continued this trend, introducing new modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. The much-anticipated first-person mode transformed the gameplay perspective, while revamped movement mechanics added fresh dynamics to the game.
Worldwide Appeal
Ongoing updates to gameplay and storyline have kept Fortnite at the forefront of global gaming. Collaborations with major artists like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg, along with live events and concerts, have solidified Fortnite's status as more than just a game—it's a cultural phenomenon.
And that's the comprehensive history of *Fortnite*.
*Fortnite is available to play on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3.*
