Fortnite in 2026: Evolving into a Full Fledged Metaverse Hub
As 2025 draws to a close, Epic Games is steering Fortnite toward a bold vision transforming the iconic battle royale into a comprehensive metaverse, a persistent social platform mixing gaming, creativity, and community interaction.
2025 Highlights and Foundations
Fortnite maintained strong momentum in 2025 with high profile collaborations, including a The Simpsons mini season that peaked at 2.7 million concurrent players, Power Rangers crossovers, and an experimental AI controlled Darth Vader NPC.
The game also returned to the U.S. App Store and Google Play after lengthy legal battles. Modes like LEGO Fortnite, Fortnite Festival, and Zero Build expanded the ecosystem, while updates to graphics and ragdoll physics kept the core battle royale competitive against rivals like Call of Duty: Warzone.
Metaverse Ambitions for 2026
Epic’s roadmap emphasizes Fortnite as a “gateway” rather than just a shooter. Key developments include:
- Unity Integration: A major partnership with Unity will allow Unity developed games to be playable directly within Fortnite starting in 2026, vastly expanding the library of experiences alongside UEFN creations.
- AI Enhancements: Building on 2025’s voice controlled AI tests, expect deeper integration of neural networks, including interactive AI bots for gameplay commands and more immersive esports broadcasts.
- Creator Economy Boost: Creators can now sell in-game items, with enhanced payouts (up to 74% revenue share through 2026) to rival platforms like Roblox.
- Mobile and UEFN Improvements: New tools in Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN) optimize islands for mobile, with ongoing reductions in app size via Thin Client technology.
Nostalgic 90s themed collaborations are likely to continue, tapping into retro appeal.
Competitive Scene: FNCS 2026
The Fortnite Champion Series shifts back to Duos format after a year of Trios, with an expanded schedule featuring four LAN events, including a Mid-Season LAN and a Reload Elite Series LAN. Top rosters see shakeups:
- Team Liquid bolstered by Bugha’s addition.
- NRG and FaZe Clan strengthened with stars like Clix and Peterbot.
- Emerging talents in Zero Build duos could challenge veterans.
Since: October 29, 2025
