On March 16, 2023, Epic Games unveiled their latest project, the Unreal Editor for “Fortnite”, at the State of Unreal presentation. The new editor aims to expand the capabilities of “Creative” mode, which allows players to create their own levels in the game, by providing developers with more powerful tools from Unreal Engine 5. With the Unreal Editor for “Fortnite”, developers can create custom levels and publish them directly to the “Fortnite” ecosystem.

“Fortnite” was first released in 2017, with two game modes: “Save the World” and “Battle Royale”. The latter quickly became a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of players from around the world. It seemed as if overnight everybody was playing “Fortnite”.

In 2018, “Creative” mode was added, allowing players to create their own levels and share them with others. It has since become an incredibly popular aspect of the game, with independent creators being able to make money from their creations as well.

Unreal Engine 5 is a powerful game engine used to create all kinds of 3D productions, such as video games and films. It is currently being used to create “Fortnite”, as well as anticipated titles such as “The Witcher 4” and “Kingdom Hearts 4”. Its predecessor, Unreal Engine 4, was used to create games such as the “Final Fantasy 7 Remake”.

While the Unreal Editor for “Fortnite” is based on Unreal Engine 5, there are some distinct differences. The editor uses creation tools from “Fortnite Creative” to create game mechanics, and it is also used in collaboration with a new programming language known as Verse. Islands are built and edited inside “Fortnite Creative”, while Unreal Editor for ‘Fortnite’ allows for more powerful and complex creations.

Some veteran users of Unreal Engine 5 may notice some limitations with the Unreal Editor for “Fortnite”. While the editor is powerful, it is designed specifically for “Fortnite”, so developers may not have access to all the features and tools of Unreal Engine 5. Although, Epic Games hopes to keep adding more features as they continue to develop the editor.

The release of Unreal Editor for “Fortnite” is expected to have a significant impact on the game’s community. With access to more powerful tools, developers will be able to create more complex and exciting levels, expanding the game’s already vast universe. The editor’s integration with the “Fortnite” ecosystem will also make it easier for players to discover and play new levels, increasing the game’s replayability.

During the State of Unreal presentation, Epic Games also revealed that Island Creators help to generate a significant amount of revenue for “Fortnite”; players who engage with Custom Islands are more likely to spend money in Fortnite’s in-game store. Because of this and the fact that Unreal Editor for “Fortnite” is going to allow for more diversity of creations inside “Fortnite”, Epic Games is going to be sharing 40% of “Fortnite” revenue with eligible creators who make content for the game.

The release of Unreal Editor for “Fortnite” is a significant step forward for the game’s community, and the industry in general. With the ability to create custom levels using these powerful tools, “Fortnite” will continue to attract players and developers from around the world. Epic Games has taken what could have been just a one-hit wonder and solidified it into the mainstream, and their continued investments in “Fortnite” will ensure it remains a major player in the gaming industry for years to come.