Fortnite
News, coverage and analysis tracking Fortnite across the outlets.
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Disney Should Buy Fortnite And Epic Games, Former Exec Says
A former Disney executive suggests that CEO Josh D'Amaro should consider acquiring a gaming company like Epic Games to drive growth. While Disney has invested in Epic's Fortnite project, a full buyout is seen as a potential bold step. Executives reportedly are interested in acquiring Epic, though founder Tim Sweeney retains control, and past acquisition talks with Electronic Arts did not materialize.
Fortnite Layoffs Included Dev With Terminal Brain Cancer
Epic Games recently laid off over 1,000 employees, including a programmer with terminal brain cancer whose family lost his life insurance. CEO Tim Sweeney has promised to resolve the insurance issue for the affected family. The company cited a downturn in Fortnite engagement and a need for cost savings as reasons for the extensive layoffs.
Every Game Getting "Switch 2 Edition" Enhanced Versions
Nintendo is releasing "Switch 2 Edition" enhanced versions of numerous existing and upcoming Nintendo Switch games, alongside new titles for the Nintendo Switch 2. Many of these enhanced versions offer upgrades such as improved resolution, frame rates, and new features, with some available as paid upgrades for existing owners. Free updates will also be provided for some titles, and specific Zelda titles will offer free upgrades to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members.
Epic Games CEO says company will ‘solve’ insurance for terminally ill former employee
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has apologized and stated the company will resolve the insurance issue for a former employee who lost life insurance coverage following recent layoffs. The employee's wife had publicly shared that her husband, who is terminally ill with brain cancer, would be unable to obtain new coverage due to his pre-existing condition. The layoffs affected over 1,000 employees, with Sweeney citing a decline in Fortnite engagement as the reason.
MMO Week in Review: EverQuest’s legacy, Camelot out of chains
This week's MMO news includes Daybreak's announcement of EverQuest Legacy, a spinoff of the classic game, and the surprise early access launch of Camelot Unchained after eight years in beta. Several other MMOs received updates, including V Rising, New World, and EverQuest II, while Epic Games faced significant layoffs due to overspending and a slump in Fortnite's performance.
Epic Games Will Solve Insurance Issues for Family of a Recently Laid-Off Terminally Ill Employee
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney announced the company will resolve insurance issues for a terminally ill employee who was laid off, amidst criticism. Sweeney stated that medical information was not a factor in the layoff decision, which was attributed to a downturn in Fortnite engagement and overall industry challenges. The company is providing severance packages, extended healthcare coverage, and accelerated stock options to affected employees.
Fortnite x Bloons TD 6 Crossover Is Actually Happening and It’s Unhinged
Epic Games is collaborating with Ninja Kiwi for an unexpected crossover between Fortnite and Bloons TD 6, set to launch on April 23. The collaboration will introduce Bloons TD 6 elements into the Fortnite battle royale, with details suggesting a sidekick or companion system. This move aims to leverage the popularity of both franchises and potentially introduce new audiences to each game.
Epic to 'Solve' Life Insurance After Terminally Ill Employee Was Laid Off
Epic Games is addressing an issue where a terminally ill employee, Mike Prinke, was laid off and lost his life insurance coverage. CEO Tim Sweeney stated that the company will ensure the family receives the necessary insurance support, emphasizing that his medical condition was not a factor in the layoff decision.
The MOP Up: Fortnite becomes Game of Thrones’ biggest fanboy
Fortnite is launching a Game of Thrones crossover event, featuring new ice areas and skins for Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and the Night King. The article also rounds up other smaller MMO news, including updates for Diablo IV, DC Universe Online, Crossout, and Wartales, alongside announcements from Ankama and clarifications regarding Stardew Valley leaks.
Analysts believe Fortnite’s performance isn’t the only factor in Epic Games’ latest firing round
Analysts suggest Epic Games' recent layoffs of 1,000 employees are due to a combination of factors beyond Fortnite's performance, including costly legal battles with Apple and Google, upcoming competition from Roblox, and past pandemic-era expansion. Despite workforce reductions, Epic Games remains committed to developing Fortnite into an "everything game" in partnership with Disney.
Xbox Partner Showcase & Crimson Desert – TheXboxHub Official Podcast #226
TheXboxHub Official Podcast Episode 226 covers the Xbox Partner Showcase, featuring updates on games like Stranger Than Heaven, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, and Hades II. The hosts also discuss the impact of a downturn in Fortnite on Epic Games and share their thoughts on the divisive game Crimson Desert.
PS5 price hike hits us hard—is Sony making the right mo... | TAG
Sony has implemented a price increase for the PlayStation 5, a move discussed as inevitable due to rising component costs and market pressures. Analysts suggest this could push consumers towards alternative platforms like PC, mobile, or cloud gaming. The article also touches on new features in Borderlands 4 and a special deal for NordVPN.
Nintendo’s Iwata Cut His Salary, Epic’s Sweeney Cut 830 Jobs Instead
The article contrasts the leadership styles of the late Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata and Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney during difficult company periods. Iwata famously cut his own salary to avoid layoffs during Nintendo's struggles with the 3DS launch and Wii U, while Sweeney laid off 830 employees at Epic Games in 2023. The piece argues that Iwata's approach fostered a better work environment and contributed to Nintendo's long-term success, contrasting it with what it describes as a more traditional, employee-costing corporate strategy at Epic.
Fortnite Fans Brace for Potential Price Surges Across C... | TAG
Sony has announced another price increase for the PlayStation 5, with the digital edition now costing $600, a $200 jump since launch. This move has sparked concerns about gamers shifting to cheaper alternatives like mobile or streaming, while the Xbox Series S remains a more affordable option. Separately, Borderlands 4's new $30 expansion pack is facing fan backlash for its perceived lack of innovation.
Former Valve writer hits out at Epic Games layoffs: "It's not like they're a publicly traded company. It's not like there's some need to hit the stock market thing. This is Tim"
Former Valve writer Chet Faliszek criticized Epic Games founder Tim Sweeney regarding the company's recent 1,000 job cuts. Faliszek questioned the motivation behind the layoffs, given Epic Games is not publicly traded, and contrasted it with Valve's employee-centric approach that fostered agency and rewarded hard work.
Gaming’s Getting Expensive AF — Are We Headed for a Rich vs Free Market Split?
An analyst report suggests the gaming industry is splitting into a premium market for wealthy players and a free-to-play market for the masses, driven by rising AAA game prices. Games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox are gaining significant traction as players opt for accessible, free experiences over expensive new releases. This trend is reshaping gaming culture and forcing developers to reconsider their monetization strategies.
Something for the Weekend – 28/03/26
This week's gaming news includes Sony increasing prices for PlayStation 5 consoles and the PlayStation Portal, Epic Games confirming over 1,000 layoffs, and four Nacon-owned studios filing for insolvency. New game announcements include STALKER 2: Cost of Hope expansion, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, and Wyldheart.
Peterbot’s Insane 1v2 Clutches Take Fortnite Community by Storm
Rising Fortnite player Peterbot has captured the community's attention with impressive 1v2 clutch plays in competitive matches. These viral clips have sparked discussions about his potential in the intense esports scene, with many wondering if his high-pressure performance will translate to tournament success. The community is watching closely to see if Peterbot can maintain this level of skill and become a prominent figure in competitive Fortnite.
Former Valve Dev Destroys Tim Sweeney Over Epic’s Mass Layoffs
Former Valve developer Chet Faliszek heavily criticized Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney on TikTok following Epic's announcement of 1,000 layoffs. Faliszek accused Sweeney of prioritizing profit from Fortnite over game development and employee well-being, contrasting Epic's actions with Valve's employee ownership model.
Op Ed
This opinion piece discusses the notion that Fortnite may not be the 'forever game' it was once perceived to be. It explores the evolving landscape of live service games and the challenges of maintaining long-term player engagement.