In an unprecedented move that marks Disney’s most substantial foray into the gaming industry, the entertainment titan has acquired a $1.5 billion stake in Epic Games. This collaboration is set to develop a new, expansive universe that not only interoperates with the colossal gaming phenomenon Fortnite but also invites fans into a world where they can play, watch, shop, and engage with their beloved characters and stories from across Disney’s vast empire, including Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar, and more.
The announcement, made during Disney’s Q1 FY24 Earnings Call, unveils plans for an open, persistent, and social universe crafted in the Unreal Engine. This new platform promises to empower players to craft their narratives, celebrate their fandom in uniquely Disney manners, and share their creations and experiences in beloved ways. “Our exciting new relationship with Epic Games will combine Disney’s cherished brands with the massively popular Fortnite, creating a transformative new gaming and entertainment universe,” stated Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. This venture is described as Disney’s most significant entry into gaming, highlighting immense potential for growth and expansion.
Tim Sweeney, CEO and Founder of Epic Games, echoed this enthusiasm, noting Disney’s early recognition of the potential in merging their worlds with Fortnite’s dynamic universe. The partnership aims to construct a persistent, open, and interoperable ecosystem that unites the Disney and Fortnite communities like never before.
While specifics about the project remain under wraps, and no launch date has been provided, the initiative is described as a multi-year endeavor. It aims to build upon the existing collaborative successes between Disney and Epic in Fortnite, which have seen integrations like Marvel and Star Wars skins and monumental live events attracting millions of players worldwide.
This new experience is anticipated to function similarly to existing Fortnite extensions such as LEGO Fortnite, Rocket Racing, and Fortnite Festival. These are standalone experiences within the Fortnite universe, offering unique games that players can access directly from Fortnite itself.
As Disney and Epic embark on this journey, fans eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world where gaming, storytelling, and fandom intersect in innovative and interactive ways. The Disney-Epic partnership not only signifies a landmark moment in the evolution of entertainment and gaming but also promises to redefine how stories are experienced and shared in the digital age.
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