Epic Games has made a strong comeback after a challenging 2023, with CEO Tim Sweeney declaring the company financially sound and announcing record-breaking user numbers for Fortnite. The popular battle royale game reached a new peak of 110 million monthly active users over the holiday season, showcasing its enduring appeal and Epic's successful pivot.
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| Fortnite's vibrant gameplay illustrates the game's appeal that has led to record user numbers |
Financial Recovery and Growth
Following significant layoffs and the sale of Bandcamp last year, Epic has spent the past 12 months rebuilding and refocusing its efforts. The company's turnaround is evident not only in Fortnite's success but also in the Epic Games Store, which hit a new high of 70 million monthly active users in September 2023.
New Incentives for Developers
To further bolster its position, Epic has introduced a new incentive for game developers using the Unreal Engine. The company will reduce its royalty fee from 5% to 3.5% for games that launch simultaneously on the Epic Games Store and other platforms. This move aims to attract more developers to the Epic ecosystem without relying solely on exclusivity deals.
Parental Controls Enhanced
In a separate but significant update, Epic has introduced new parental control features for Fortnite, addressing concerns about screen time for younger players. Parents can now set time limits that work across all game modes and connected devices, including the Unreal Editor for Fortnite.
Key features of the new parental controls include:
- Customizable play windows and duration limits
- 30-minute warnings before time expires
- Option for children to request additional play time
- Detailed time reports for parents
While these controls add a valuable tool for managing children's gaming habits, it's worth noting that determined players could potentially circumvent them by creating multiple accounts. Epic advises parents to use these tools in conjunction with active supervision.
As Epic Games continues to evolve and adapt to the changing gaming landscape, these latest developments demonstrate the company's commitment to both its financial health and the well-being of its younger player base. With Fortnite's persistent popularity and new initiatives to support developers and families, Epic appears well-positioned for continued success in the competitive gaming industry.
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| Epic Games enhances parental controls to promote healthier gaming habits among its younger players |