Fortnite is developed by Epic Games and operates using the games-as-a-service (GaaS) model. Unlike traditional games that are purchased outright, Fortnite is free-to-play, generating revenue through in-game purchases of virtual items such as skins, emotes, and battle passes. These items offer cosmetic upgrades rather than advantages in gameplay, reflecting a shift in how games monetize their content.

​

The game is also an example of cross-platform play, as it is available on PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. This means that players can interact regardless of the platform they are using, a feature that has helped Fortnite expand its user base globally. Students should understand how this strategy aligns with the idea of media convergence, where different media and technology platforms interact to provide a unified experience.

Understanding Fortnite also involves recognizing Epic Games' use of the Unreal Engine, which not only powers Fortnite but is also licensed to other developers. This demonstrates how media companies diversify their revenue streams.

​

Audience Engagement

Fortnite attracts a broad and diverse audience, from young children to adults, due in part to its free-to-play model, easy accessibility, and approachable, cartoonish design. One of the key points students must focus on is how Fortnite maintains a high level of audience engagement. The game is continuously updated with new content, including seasonal events and collaborations with other media franchises such as Marvel and Star Wars. These collaborations are examples of synergy, where partnerships between different brands enhance the appeal of both.

​

In addition to playing the game, Fortnite players are active in online communities. The game is widely shared on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, where players can stream their gameplay or create content based on their in-game experiences. This highlights the concept of an active audience, where users don’t just consume media but actively participate in its creation and sharing.

​

Media Language and Representation

Students should analyze how Fortnite uses media language through its visual and audio design. The game’s bright, stylized graphics, cartoonish art style, and playful sound effects create an accessible and fun experience, differing from more realistic or violent games. This use of media language helps the game appeal to a younger audience while remaining engaging for older players as well.

​

Fortnite also serves as a study in representation. Its customizable characters allow players to choose avatars that break away from traditional gender roles and racial stereotypes. The diverse range of character designs reflects a more inclusive approach to representation, in line with changing media standards.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​CHECK YOUR LEARNING

1. What is the games-as-a-service (GaaS) model, and how does Fortnite utilize it?

2. How does Fortnite generate revenue despite being a free-to-play game?

3. What advantages do in-game purchases such as skins and emotes offer players in Fortnite?

4. How does cross-platform play contribute to Fortnite’s global popularity?

5. What is media convergence, and how does Fortnite exemplify this concept?

6. How does Epic Games diversify its revenue streams through the Unreal Engine?

7. What makes Fortnite appealing to such a broad and diverse audience?

8. How do collaborations with franchises like Marvel and Star Wars demonstrate synergy in Fortnite?

9. In what ways does Fortnite encourage audience participation beyond gameplay?

10. How does Fortnite use media language to appeal to different age groups through its design?

​

Creative Task: Fortnite Storyboarding – Design Your Own In-Game Event

Create a storyboard for a new in-game event in Fortnite. The event should introduce a limited-time storyline, characters, and challenges, similar to the real-world collaborations Fortnite has done with Marvel or Star Wars.

Your event could involve: A pop culture franchise (e.g., a superhero movie, sci-fi series, music artist); themed battle royale (e.g., space invasion, haunted island, underwater city); A new enemy, boss battle, or environmental challenge (e.g., a giant monster attacking the island). 

​

Storyboard: Draw a 6-frame storyboard to visually represent your event, showing key moments from start to finish. You can include:

 

• Opening scene where players first encounter the event.

• Action-packed battle scenes.

• Key moments where characters or challenges appear.

• The final moment, which could be a victory scene or a dramatic twist.​​​​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​