The partnership between Disney and Epic Games for a new world within Fortnite has reached a "stable" stage of development, according to sources close to the project. The collaboration was announced in February 2024 and included a $1.5 billion investment from Disney. The investment promises an interactive experience that would connect the universes of Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Avatar, and other Disney properties.
Despite the confirmed progress, neither Disney nor Epic Games have revealed concrete details about what players can expect. The most widely accepted speculation suggests that a "dedicated realm" may be added to Battle Royale, creating a new form of in-game interaction. Leaker HypeX, known for previewing game news, stated that significant progress has been made in recent months, ensuring greater solidity for the project.
Disney's Change of Language for Fortnite
The new development update contrasts with statements Disney made in August 2024. At the time, the company stated that it would take a few years for its collaboration with Epic Games to become concrete. However, even without a new platform launched, Disney has maintained its presence in Fortnite. The company has added skins from popular franchises and expanded its influence in the game.
The companies announced the partnership, highlighting their goal of offering an immersive experience, allowing players to "create their own stories" within Disney's universes. However, it's still unclear whether the project will utilize traditional Fortnite mechanics, such as building and combat, or take a different approach.
Disney's History with Interactive Games
Disney's Fortnite initiative harkens back to the company's previous experiences in the gaming industry. One of the most ambitious projects was Disney Infinity, which combined characters from various franchises with an action-focused gameplay system and collectible figures. Although it gained a fan base, the initiative was discontinued when Disney opted to exit in-house game development and prioritize licensing its brands to external studios.
Meanwhile, Epic Games continues to invest in expanding Fortnite beyond the traditional Battle Royale. Modes like LEGO Fortnite and Festival have expanded the game's possibilities, creating new ways to monetize and engage players. With Disney as a partner, the franchise is likely to follow this path, seeking to transform the game into an even more comprehensive platform for digital entertainment.
