Tim Sweeney: Fortnite's Struggle to Be Seen as More Than Battle Royale

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has emphasized the company's ambition to transform Fortnite into a multifaceted platform beyond its core battle royale gameplay. During Unreal Fest 2025, he acknowledged that the perception of Fortnite as solely a shooter remains a significant hurdle. While new experiences like Lego Fortnite and music-driven content have made strides, Sweeney noted that engaging players consistently in these genres is still a work in progress. Epic plans to enhance capabilities within its Unreal Engine-powered editor for creators, fostering a more diverse ecosystem. Sweeney believes Fortnite's evolution is essential in maintaining relevance and competing against future gaming innovations.

Tim Sweeney indicates that Fortnite is struggling with its identity, as many still view it strictly as a shooter, despite efforts to position it as a "everything game" with diverse genres and experiences.

Fortnite has become a cultural phenomenon since its launch in 2017, initially gaining massive popularity as a battle royale game. Over the years, it has expanded with various collaborations and modes that allow for creative gameplay, including concerts and other entertainment experiences. Epic Games is now focusing on broadening the game's appeal and ensuring that it remains competitive amid changing gaming trends and technologies.