In a massive $1.5 billion deal, Disney has acquired a minority stake in Epic Games, the developer behind the gaming phenomenon Fortnite. The move signals Disney’s ambition to become a leading player in the interactive entertainment space.
The investment gives Disney a minority stake of under 40% in Epic Games. It marks a major strategic move by Disney to expand its presence in video games and interactive media, building off the success of Epic’s Fortnite juggernaut which boasts over 350 million players worldwide.
The deal signals Disney’s growing interest in tapping the massive audience on Fortnite to promote its franchises and drive more engagement with customers. It could also lead to new Fortnite-style games set in the worlds of Star Wars, Marvel and more.
Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed the news himself on the company’s earnings call yesterday. “We see an opportunity to broaden our audience and deepen engagement with fans old and new through Epic’s expertise in games and Fortnite’s strong community,” said Iger.
The collaboration will see Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm properties brought into the world of Fortnite. Exact details are still under wraps, but industry insiders speculate we could see new storylines, quests and cosmetic items based on popular Disney franchises.
Epic founder Tim Sweeney expressed his excitement on Twitter: “Thanks to Disney for their partnership and investment. We’re excited to work together to build an even more innovative and interactive future.”
Fans were equally thrilled by the news. “Marvel x Fortnite is all I ever wanted,” tweeted @NiteNiteFort. “Imagine running around the Battle Bus as Iron Man, fighting alongside Spider-Man and Black Widow!”
However, not all reactions were positive. “Disney ruining another franchise, name a more iconic duo,” griped @FortniteHater69. “Soon we’ll have Mickey Mouse building towers and dancing the Floss.”
Only time will tell how the partnership truly plays out. But with Epic’s game-changing Unreal Engine behind it, Disney seems determined to create immersive new entertainment experiences that span movies, television, and interactive games. Get ready to see your favourite characters like never before.
Sources:
https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/7/24065281/disney-epic-games-investment-fortnite-metaverse
https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/disney-and-epic-games-fortnite/