The Walt Disney Company and Epic Games announced plans to collaborate and develop an expansive metaverse-like game project deeply connected to the popular online game Fortnite.
The companies will work together to build persistent digital worlds that interoperate with Fortnite. Information about the specifics of new entertainment universe is limited, but according to Disney, the new persistent universe will provide opportunities for consumers to play, watch and shop. Fans can also engage with content, characters and stories from Disney franchises including Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar and more. Players will be able to create their own stories, express themselves through digital avatars, share content and have social experiences.
Disney’s $1.5 Billion Investment in Epic Games
Disney is also making a $1.5 billion investment to acquire an equity stake in Epic Games. The deal enables Disney to tap into Epic’s industry-leading game engine technology and Fortnite’s massive reach – the free-to-play battle royale game has attracted more than 350 million registered players globally.
“This marks Disney’s biggest push into the world of games and offers significant opportunities for growth. We can’t wait for fans to experience Disney stories in groundbreaking new ways.”
said Disney CEO Robert Iger.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney said the open and persistent digital universe will bring together Fortnite users and Disney fans.
Now we’re collaborating on something entirely new to build an ecosystem that will unite the Disney and Fortnite communities.
Tim Sweeney said.
Longstanding Disney-Epic Partnership Gets a Boost
The new agreement significantly expands an already close relationship between the entertainment giant and gaming powerhouse. Epic’s Fortnite has previously incorporated Disney IP in various popular in-game events, including a Marvel-themed season that drew over 15 million concurrent players.
Additionally, Disney utilizes Epic’s Unreal Engine across gaming, film and theme parks. Recent examples include video games like Kingdom Hearts 3 and the upcoming Star Wars Jedi: Survivor as well as attractions like the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run.
The fresh injection of capital and commitment to joint projects builds on Epic’s participation in Disney’s 2017 tech accelerator program. The goal of that initiative was to blend entertainment and innovation – something this new cross-disciplinary universe aims to achieve.
Analysts say the deal makes strategic sense as the gaming market continues rapid expansion, with more than 3 billion gamers globally. Disney is already a leading games licensor but the Epic deal unlocks new digital revenue streams and direct access to young audiences.
While financial terms and a launch timeline for the new metaverse-like project weren’t disclosed, expect more details to emerge as this transformative Disney-Epic Games partnership takes shape.
