Disney Corporation has announced that it has bought a stake in Epic Games for $1.5 billion. The companies want to create a “new universe of games and entertainment” within Fortnite.

In this universe, Fortnite users will reportedly be able to interact with content based on Disney franchises, such as Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar, and Pixar Studios projects.

Fortnite users will be able to play exclusive games, make purchases, and watch content. The companies haven’t shared details yet, but Fortnite may include platforms for watching Disney+ shows and movies or ESPN sports.

Additionally, players can create their own stories based on Disney franchises and share them.

LEGO Fortnite

It is unknown how much of a stake Disney has acquired in Epic Games. The deal has not yet closed and is awaiting regulatory approval.

Disney said the deal with Epic Games will be its “largest entry into the video game industry.” The corporation expects that the partnership will open up significant opportunities for growth and expansion and strengthen its relationship with Epic Games. Recall that the companies have been cooperating for not the first year. In particular, they developed the Epic Games engine Unreal Engine, which works with graphics in cartoons and Disney movies.

The deal between Disney and Epic Games resembles the deal that in 2022 Epic Games made with Sony and KIRKBI, the parent company of LEGO Group. Back then, Sony and KIRKBI each invested $1 billion in Epic Games, which led to the LEGO Fortnite game mode with its map and stylized characters in Fortnite late last year. The mode proved to be extremely popular. According to Fortnite.gg, at its peak there were 2.4 million people playing it simultaneously.

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