Fortnite by Epic Games was released back in 2017. And since then, it has remained a hugely popular game with millions of players around the world. Not only that, but its generated billions of dollars through microtransactions and in-game rewards. But how as this happened?
What is Fortnite?
Fortnite is an online video game with a fantasy theme. The game itself is ever-evolving and offers weekly updates, and provides a lot of freedom to players in terms of customization. The developers are also continually working to improve things and ensure that the game features change and adapt to the different tastes and preferences of each individual player. On top of that, it’s available in three different game modes though the three options all share a similar gameplay and game engine.
Changing the status quo
One of the main reasons though that this game has done so well, is that it’s brought something new to the table. Much like the game Aviator did which served as the launch of a new type of game in the form of crash games, Fortnite has change the way people view video games. Rather than as a static, fixed entity, this game has shown that games are there to service the player, offering a flexible interface which evolves alongside the player. It’s never the same either as the game developers are always releasing new modes, and customisable items on a weekly basis. This helps to keep players engaged and excited to come and play each day. And this is the key. While other games have also utilised upgrades, new modes and customisation to great effect, no one is doing it quite so well as Fortnite. The team behind the game is able to keep pushing out new things super fast, which helps keep the game cresting the wave of popularity, giving it little time to die down.
Additional game features
As with all games, it’s all about what a game has to offer when it comes to interest. Now, Fortnite is actually a complex game with a variety of different systems. This means that it can take some time to get to grips with. Typically, games will have a gentle learning curve, but it’s quite steep on Fortnite. That being said, the game manages to successfully keep a good balance in this area, by ensuring that the difficulty level is not causing people to quit, while ensuring there is enough reward at the end of the learning process to make it all worth it.
Impressively, there’s ample room to learn here too. So for newcomers who do find the learning curve difficult, there are quick and easy ways to learn. For instance, after a battle, players can simply stick around to continue watching the match after their elimination. On top of that, players can switch between characters once they’re out, getting the perspective of others to see the different strategies, and techniques are available, and how to use these to win in future matches.
Cross-platform adaptability
Perhaps one of the biggest factors to Fortnite’s success is simply that it’s available on multiple platforms. Rather than being linked to a specific, expensive console, this is an online game. It’s got an ecosystem that allows it to be played on any device, seamlessly and easily. As such, this has made Fortnite into one of the most accessible games on the entire market. Casual gamers can try it out, friends can introduce it to one another, and so on. And with no need to purchase expensive equipment or pay for a download, it’s easy for people to give it a go.
Additionally, the gaming experience, and one of its most impressive features, is the same no matter the device it’s played on. This means that the quality is the same on a mobile device or PC. The developers have done a stellar job when it comes to optimizing the game for smooth running and minimal lag on any device.
What else?
There are multiple other reasons this game has done well. For instance, other features that make this game popular include the Aim Assist, useful in the battle royale mode. Or simply the cartoon aesthetic that’s simply so appealing. There’s also the appeal of all the cosmetic items, with skins galore to be found coming from a range of pop culture icons. Finally, the landscape is always changing, you can build and even enjoy monetization features.
In short, adaptability and the ability to improve has proven why Fortnite has endured.
