With Victory Royale after Victory Royale, it's easy to forget just how long *Fortnite* has been captivating players worldwide. Initially launched as a zombie survival game, it evolved into a Battle Royale phenomenon, becoming a global sensation. This article delves into the rich history of *Fortnite* and highlights its age.

How Long Has Fortnite Been Around?

It may be hard to believe, but by July 2025, *Fortnite* will celebrate its eighth birthday. This milestone will not only look to the future but also pay homage to the game's storied past.

The Full Fortnite Timeline

Save the World – The Birth Of Fortnite

*Fortnite* first caught the public's eye with its survival mode, *Save the World*. Players focused on building defenses and surviving waves of zombie-like creatures known as "husks." This was the original vision for *Fortnite* before Epic Games ventured into the Battle Royale genre.

Entering the Battle Royale World

The introduction of the Battle Royale mode transformed *Fortnite* into a household name. Its unique twist of incorporating building mechanics set it apart from other Battle Royale titles, leading to explosive growth in the gaming community.

The Evolution Of Fortnite Battle Royale

The Beginning

The original map from Chapter 1 remains a beloved piece of *Fortnite*'s history, cherished for its nostalgia and iconic Points of Interest (POIs) like Titled Towers and Retail Row. The early seasons were marked by simple yet engaging gameplay and memorable live events, such as the rocket launch, Kevin the Cube, a floating ice island, volcanoes, and the epic showdown between the Mecha Team Leader and a monster. The introduction of the controversial BRUTE mech and the climactic black hole event capped off an unforgettable chapter.

Taking Over the eSports World

*Fortnite* concluded Chapter 1 with the $30 million World Cup, where players from around the globe competed to determine the best in the game. Bugha emerged as the champion, becoming one of the first superstars of *Fortnite*. Following this, Epic Games established a seasonal championship in various regions, enabling players to showcase their skills and pursue careers as professional eSports athletes. Today, major regions like NA East, NA West, Brazil, Oceania, Europe, and Asia host numerous tournaments, including the FNCS and cash cups, culminating in the Global Championship held in different cities worldwide each season.

A New Chapter

Chapter 2 brought a fresh map and innovative mechanics such as swimming, boats, and fishing, along with new weapons and skins. This chapter expanded the *Fortnite* universe significantly.

Carrying the Momentum

Chapter 3, released in 2022, introduced sliding and sprinting mechanics, enhancing the gameplay experience. The Creative mode allowed players to design and share their custom maps, revolutionizing the way players interacted with the game. In March 2023, creators could monetize their maps, providing a new avenue for earning. To address the steep learning curve of building, Epic Games launched Zero Build mode, making the game more accessible to new players.

Transitioning To Unreal Engine

Chapter 4, released in 2023, utilized Unreal Engine, significantly enhancing the game's graphics, physics, and overall performance. The transition resulted in a more detailed and vibrant gaming experience. Chapter 5, launched in 2024, further showcased the capabilities of Unreal Engine with new modes like *Rocket Racing*, *LEGO Fortnite*, and *Fortnite Festival*. The long-awaited first-person mode was introduced, changing the game's perspective, and movement mechanics were revamped with new features.

Worldwide Appeal

*Fortnite*'s continuous gameplay and story updates, along with impressive collaborations, have kept it at the forefront of the gaming world. Live events and virtual concerts featuring global superstars like Travis Scott, Marshmello, Ariana Grande, and Snoop Dogg have solidified *Fortnite*'s status as more than just a game—it's a global phenomenon.

*Fortnite* is available on various platforms, including the Meta Quest 2 and 3, ensuring its accessibility to a wide audience.