Yesterday, a video was published on Fortnite’s official YouTube channel announcing a partnership between Epic Games and Disney with the goal of creating a universe that merges gaming with cinema. To seal this deal, the Mickey Mouse company has shelled out a staggering $1.5 billion, a monumental figure but not among the company’s largest investments. It’s worth noting that in 2009, they paid $4 billion to acquire Marvel and all its licenses.
This agreement, which still needs approval from regulatory authorities, will bring all Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Avatar licenses, among others, to the Fortnite universe. It will also drive the development of new video games based on these IPs using the Unreal Engine. Below is the link to the official statement on The Walt Disney Company’s website.
What Do the Directors of Epic Games and Disney Think About the Agreement?
“Our new and exciting relationship with Epic Games will bring together Disney’s beloved brands and franchises with the hugely popular Fortnite in a new, transformational universe of gaming and entertainment.
This marks Disney’s largest entry into the world of gaming and offers significant growth and expansion opportunities. We can’t wait for fans to experience the Disney stories and worlds they love in new and innovative ways.”
Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
“Disney was one of the first companies to believe in the potential of merging their worlds with ours in Fortnite, and they already use Unreal Engine throughout their portfolio.
Now, we are collaborating on something entirely new to build a persistent, open, and interoperable ecosystem that will unite Disney and Fortnite communities.”
Tim Sweeney, CEO and Founder of Epic Games.
“Disney was one of the first companies to believe in the potential of merging their worlds with ours in Fortnite, and they already use Unreal Engine throughout their portfolio.
Now, we are collaborating on something entirely new to build a persistent, open, and interoperable ecosystem that will unite Disney and Fortnite communities.”
Tim Sweeney, CEO and Founder of Epic Games.
