Who Owns Fortnite

Core Insights - Fortnite, developed by Epic Games, has become a significant player in the online gaming industry since its release in 2017, with various game modes and a strong community following [1][2][3] Company Overview - Epic Games, founded by Tim Sweeney in 1991, is based in Cary, North Carolina, and has evolved from a computer consulting business to a leading video game developer [2][4] - The company is known for its Unreal Engine, which powers not only Fortnite but also other popular games and is utilized across various industries [3] Game Development and Features - Fortnite has introduced multiple game modes, including the recent Ballistic mode, which emphasizes strategy and teamwork [1] - The platform regularly updates its content to enhance user engagement, with new missions and features added to existing modes like LEGO Fortnite [1][3] Awards and Recognition - Fortnite has received numerous awards, including "Best Co-op Game" and "Ultimate Game of the Year," although it faced stiff competition at the 2024 Game Awards [1][3] Ownership and Investment - Epic Games is privately held, with significant investments from Tencent (40% stake), Disney (9%), and Sony (4.9%), among others [7][12] - The company has raised substantial funding, including $1.25 billion in 2018, which increased its valuation to $15 billion [6][9] Financial Performance - Despite its popularity, Epic Games has reported losses ranging from $100 million to $200 million annually from 2019 to 2021 [8][16] - The valuation of Epic Games has fluctuated, dropping from $31.5 billion in April 2022 to $22.5 billion following the Disney investment in 2024 [8][16] Strategic Partnerships - Epic Games has formed partnerships with major companies like Sony and Kirkbi to enhance its market position and expand Fortnite's reach [10][12] - The collaboration with Disney aims to integrate popular characters and stories into the Fortnite universe, marking a significant expansion opportunity [8][10]