Epic Games
Epic Games lays off over 1,000 employees due to Fortnite downturn
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Epic Games announced layoffs affecting more than 1,000 employees on March 24, citing a downturn in Fortnite engagement that has led to spending exceeding revenue. CEO Tim Sweeney expressed regret in a blog post, noting the cuts along with over $500 million in other cost savings will stabilize the company. Affected staff will receive severance packages including at least four months of base pay and extended healthcare.
In the aftermath of Epic Games' March 24 layoffs affecting over 1,000 employees—many from Fortnite teams—developers have voiced worries about the battle royale game's future. CEO Tim Sweeney called on remaining staff to deliver fresh content while eyeing a shift to Unreal Engine 6, but reactions and backlash underscore the challenges ahead.
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Epic Games announced the removal of three lesser-played Fortnite modes amid efforts to cut costs. Rocket Racing will end in October 2026, while Ballistic and Festival Battle Stage shut down on April 16. The decision follows layoffs of over 1,000 employees earlier this week.
Epic Games has outlined the update schedule for Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 1, with the next patch arriving soon after the ongoing Winterfest 2025 event. The v39.20 update will introduce changes like the return of classic sky lighting to Fortnite OG. This patch marks a key step before the season's conclusion in early March.
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Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has announced that Fortnite will not launch on iOS in Japan next year, blaming Apple's recent policy changes for obstructing competition. The decision stems from Japan's new Mobile Software Competition Act, which required Apple to allow third-party app stores but, according to Sweeney, led to new fees and surveillance measures instead.
Epic Games has temporarily disabled the Peacemaker emote in Fortnite after players raised concerns that it resembles a swastika. The emote, part of the Chapter 5 Season 4 battle pass, features a gesture that some interpret as offensive when viewed from specific angles. Epic is reviewing the item following social media backlash.