fortnite

How Much is Fortnite Worth 2024: Its Success and Value

Fortnite, crafted by Epic Games, is an engaging series set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Since its debut in 2017, it has quickly risen to global acclaim and success.

The Fortnite franchise includes two distinct games: Fortnite: Save the World and Fortnite: Battle Royale. The initial release of Fortnite: Save the World was as a paid early access game in 2017, leading many to anticipate a free version would follow.

However, Epic Games opted to keep the experience exclusive by offering the game on platforms like macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4, ensuring it remained a premium offering.

Some Amazing Facts about Fortnite

  • Fortnite has experienced immense success since its launch, consistently generating billions in revenue yearly, such as $5.8 billion in 2021, and it is projected to surpass $6 billion in 2022. Along with revenue growth, the game has also seen a tremendous increase in its player base, climbing from 1 million in 2017 to a staggering 400 million in 2021.
  • In 2020, the game boasted 24.4 million monthly active users, surpassing the popular game MW/Warzone. When it comes to playtime, most Fortnite players dedicate up to 10 hours per week to the game, with 36% playing up to 5 hours and 34% between 6 and 10 hours.
  • As for earnings, Fortnite players have accumulated more than $17 million in total. Notably, Kyle Giersdorf from the USA topped the list with $3.4 million, followed by Austria’s David Wang with $2.2 million, and the USA’s Harrison Chang with $1.8 million.
  • Lastly, Fortnite continues to dominate the streaming world. In 2023, viewers spent a combined 112 million hours watching Fortnite streams and events on Twitch’s video streaming platform.

Overview

fortnite overview
Source: theguardian.com

 

Fortnite, a digital gaming sensation, was launched on July 25, 2017 by Epic Games. The game’s creators, Darren Sugg and Donald Mustard, developed it in their Cary, North Carolina headquarters. Accessible on PC, mobile, web, AR, VR, and consoles, Fortnite caters to a global audience.

Fortnite has quickly become one of the top-grossing video games of all time, with its massive popularity primarily in the United States and a strong presence in Europe. The game consistently attracts players with its regular updates, events, and engaging gameplay.

Accessible in numerous countries, some regions do face restrictions. Interestingly, in 2020, Fortnite boasted the highest number of monthly active users among its battle royale competitors. The addictive gameplay and availability across multiple platforms help maintain high player retention rates, with most players clocking in under 10 hours per week.

Additionally, the world of esports has found a profitable niche in Fortnite. The top 10 earners in this game have collectively amassed over $17 million in winnings, making it an appealing opportunity for aspiring esports professionals.

Ways Fortnite Generates Income

Year Revenue
2022 $6+ billion
2021 $5.8 billion
2020 $5.1 billion
2019 $3.7 billion
2018 $5.4 billion

Fortnite’s primary source of income comes from in-game sales of its virtual currency, called V-Bucks (Vinderbucks). Players use V-Bucks to acquire skins, emotes, and other virtual items, contributing to the game’s substantial revenue.

Additionally, Fortnite offers a Battle Pass subscription service and collaborates with companies for branded events and partnerships to further increase its earnings.

Position in the Gaming Industry


Fortnite’s popularity spans across the globe, with 31% of gamers in the United States having played the game. Its stronghold in the gaming market can also be attributed to its substantial presence in Europe, appealing to players from diverse age groups and backgrounds.

Notable features contributory to Fortnite’s success include its engaging strategic gameplay as well as consistent updates and special events. As the game continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how its market share will fare in the ever-changing gaming industry.

In which countries is Fortnite accessible?

Fortnite enjoys a wide reach across the globe, though certain countries such as China, Iran, and North Korea restrict access due to government regulations. The game’s servers are located in various regions, including:

  • North America
  • Brazil
  • Europe
  • Oceania
  • Asia
  • Middle East

Thus, players from different parts of the world can experience Fortnite’s thrilling gameplay.

Monthly Active Players

fortnite active users
Source: gamechampions.com

Fortnite has experienced remarkable growth in its player base since its inception, quickly rising from 1 million players in 2017 to a staggering 400 million by 2021. The game’s rapid expansion can be attributed to its accessibility on various platforms, such as computers, consoles, and mobile devices, in addition to its engaging gameplay and consistent updates.

Year Number of Fortnite Players
2021 400 million players
2020 350 million players
2019 250 million players
2018 200 million players
2017 1 million players

By 2020, Fortnite led the pack of battle royale games in terms of monthly active players (MAP), boasting 24.4 million users. The runner-up, MW/Warzone, lagged behind with 22 million users. Fortnite’s popularity benefits from factors such as frequent updates, alluring gameplay, a free-to-play model, in-game purchases, and strong player retention rates.

Games Number of Fortnite MAP
Fortnite 24.4 million users
MW/Warzone 22 million users
GTA V 20.1 million users
Black Ops CW 16.4 million users
Rocket League 15.2 million users

Average Fortnite Playtime for Players

Average Fortnite Playtime for Players
Source: in.ign.com

A 2020 survey unveiled interesting insights about Fortnite players’ weekly playtime in the United States. The data showed that the majority of the gamers, which accounts for 70%, had a playtime ranging from 0 to 10 hours. Specifically, 36% of respondents played for 0 to 5 hours, while 34% dedicated between 6 and 10 hours.

A smaller section, 17%, committed 11 to 15 hours per week. Only 13% of players spent 16 hours or more on the popular game. Here’s a quick breakdown of the playtime distribution:

  • 0 to 5 hours: 36%
  • 6 to 10 hours: 34%
  • 11 to 15 hours: 17%
  • 16 to 20 hours: 8%
  • 21 hours or more: 5%

What are the types of devices used by Fortnite players?

Fortnite players use a variety of devices to play the game. A majority of players, 69%, use a video game console, while other popular devices include smartphones at 46%, and desktop or laptop computers at 28%. Only a small percentage, 8%, play Fortnite on a tablet. The game’s widespread availability across multiple platforms makes it conveniently accessible for diverse users.

Device Percentage of Players
Video game console 69%
Smartphone 46%
Desktop or laptop computer 28%
Tablet 8%

Who are the Top 10 Highest-Earning Fortnite Players?


Fortnite has been a highly profitable esports venture for players globally, with a total of $155,440,377.43 awarded to 500 players over 1298 tournaments around the world.

The leading 10 earners have collectively received $17,388,068.82, with Kyle Giersdorf from the USA claiming the top spot with earnings of $3,491,745.05. Other prominent earners include David Wang from Austria at $2,182,374.23 and Harrison Chang from the USA with $1,874,588.80. These remarkable earnings showcase Fortnite’s popularity and impact as a competitive game.

Rank Country Player Name Earnings
1 USA Kyle Giersdorf $3,491,745.05
2 Austria David Wang $2,182,374.23
3 USA Harrison Chang $1,874,588.80
4 USA Shane Cotton $1,722,383.99
5 Denmark Anas El-Abd $1,551,638.50
6 Norway Emil Bergquist $1,541,795.69
7 United Kingdom Jaden Ashman $1,360,008.07
8 USA Nate Kou $1,241,234.74
9 Netherlands Dave Jong $1,215,593.33
10 Canada Williams Aubin $1,206,706.42

source

Average Spending on In-Game Purchases in Fortnite

A 2020 survey of Fortnite players in the United States revealed that approximately 77% of respondents spent money on in-game purchases. The study also found that the average amount spent on these purchases increased from $84.67 in 2018 to $102.42 in 2020.

The game’s revenue model has significantly contributed to its financial triumph, with estimated revenue exceeding $5 billion in 2019, making Fortnite one of the highest-grossing games ever.

Year Average Amount Spent
2020 $102.42
2018 $84.67

Which Country Has the Most Fortnite Players?

fortnite US
Source: mobileappdaily.com

The United States stands at the top with 2555 ranked Fortnite players and total earnings of $44,663,179.47. The United Kingdom and France take second and third places with 445 and 675 ranked players, respectively. Their earnings amount to $7,320,259.86 and $6,953,408.78, respectively.

Denmark and Canada secure the fourth and fifth spots, making the top five list. They have 252 and 216 ranked players, with total earnings of $6,172,270.38 and $5,874,425.87. Additional countries in the top ten include Brazil, Germany, Sweden, Poland, and the Netherlands. These countries contribute to 58.92% of worldwide Fortnite earnings, highlighting their substantial role in the competitive gaming landscape.

Rank Country Earnings Ranked Players
1 United States $44,663,179.47 2,555
2 United Kingdom $7,320,259.86 445
3 France $6,953,408.78 675
4 Denmark $6,172,270.38 252
5 Canada $5,874,425.87 216
6-10 Brazil, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Netherlands

A survey reveals various play frequencies among teenagers. Notably, 40% of respondents reported they no longer play Fortnite. Of the remaining active players, 13% play multiple times per day, 16% play a few times per week, and 21% play less than once a week. Only 4% reported playing the game daily, while 7% played weekly.

Play Frequency Respondents
Less than once a week 21%
Once a week 7%
A few times a week 16%
Once a day 4%
Multiple times per day 13%
Used to play, but don’t anymore 40%

Number of Concurrent Fortnite Players during In-Game Live Events

in game events fortnite
Source: youtube.com

Fortnite has hosted numerous thrilling in-game events that garnered millions of players globally. The Galactus event, culminating Fortnite’s Marvel-themed Season 4 in Chapter 2, attracted a record-breaking 15.3 million concurrent players, making it the largest live event in the game’s history. In addition to the in-game participants, 3.4 million viewers watched the event on YouTube Gaming and Twitch.

Date Events Players
November 2020 Galactus event 15.3 million players
April 2020 Travis Scott concert 12.3 million players
February 2019 Marshmello concert 10.7 million players
November 2018 Purple cube destruction 8.3 million players

Source: Statista

Among other notable events, the April 2020 Travis Scott in-game concert generated approximately 8.1 million live viewing hours on YouTube and Twitch. Other events, such as the Doomsday, Steve Aoki, and Diplo events held in June and May 2020, amassed 11.8 million, 7.7 million, and 6.01 million hours of viewing, respectively.

Characteristic Hours
Doomsday (June 5, 2020) 11.8 million hours
Steve Aoki (May 9, 2020) 7.7 million hours
Diplo (May 2, 2020) 6.01 million hours
Travis Scott (Apr 23, 2020) 8.09 million hours

Source:  Same

These live events showcase Fortnite’s ability to create engaging experiences for both its players and its audiences.

Who are Players? (Demography)

Fortnite is played by both men and women, although the majority of its players are male. Specifically, 72.4% of Fortnite players are male, while 27.6% are female1. It’s important to acknowledge that Fortnite has a substantial female player base, and its developers have made efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive experience.

The majority of Fortnite players are young adults aged 18-24, who represent about 63% of all players2. In terms of other age groups, 23% of players are aged 25-34, 13% are aged 35-44, and only 2% belong to the 45-54 age group.

Download Count

In March 2018, Fortnite Battle Royale became available on Android and iOS devices. However, this period was brief.

Despite achieving 78 million downloads within its first year, Fortnite was removed from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in August 2020.

Fortnite Players Twitch Time

fortnite twitch
Source: sportskeeda.com

In recent years, Fortnite has garnered a substantial following on Twitch. Throughout 2023, this popular game was watched for a cumulative 112 million hours on the streaming platform. The viewership peaked in 2018 with 1.9 million viewers and experienced a slight dip in 2019. After a period of stability, there was another decrease in viewership in 2021. Nevertheless, the viewer count saw an impressive jump with 848,700 viewers in 2022 and 112,000 in 2023.

Year Hours Watched Viewers
2018 1.3 billion hours 1.9 million
2019 1 billion hours 1.4 million
2020 1 billion hours 1.5 million
2021 966.39 million hours 1.3 million
2022 611.7 million hours 848,700
2023 78.6 million hours 112,000

These trends indicate that while there have been fluctuations in Fortnite’s Twitch viewership, its streaming presence remains strong, appealing to a diverse audience of players and fans.

Traffic Channels

Fortnite mainly relies on direct channels, contributing more than half of its promotional share. Other considerable contributions come from referrals with 7.48% and organic search with 30.06%. Social media is also a valuable resource, contributing 8.08% of the share. Mail and display channels hold a minimal share of 1.73% and 1.01%, respectively.

Channel Type Share (%)
Direct 51.64
Referrals 7.48
Organic Search 30.06
Paid Search 0.01
Social 8.08
Mail 1.73
Display 1.01

Social Media Platforms

YouTube holds the top position as Fortnite’s primary social media platform, boasting 42.55% of its total online presence. In close competition, Twitter occupies 35.60%. Instagram, Reddit, and VKontakte combined contribute only 15.29% of the share, indicating that Fortnite focuses its resources on platforms with the highest reach and engagement.

Platform Share (%)
YouTube 42.55
Twitter 35.60
Others 6.56
Instagram 5.83
Reddit 5.03
VKontakte 4.43

This strategic approach allows Fortnite to share both video and interactive content effectively, connecting with its audience across various platforms.

Who Created Fortnite

Fortnite, a widely-known game, was crafted and brought to life by Epic Games, spearheaded by chief designer Darren Sugg and creative direction from Donald Mustard.

Darren Sugg, acclaimed for his expertise in video game design and direction, played a prominent role as the lead designer and creative director in developing Fortnite’s cooperative multiplayer version, “Fortnite: Save the World”.

Donald Mustard, an experienced video game designer and creative director, has been an integral part of Epic Games since 2009. His tireless efforts and creative vision have contributed significantly to Fortnite’s massive global success.

Offering a Variety of Products and Services in Fortnite

Fortnite continues to captivate gamers by providing an array of products and services for their enjoyment:

  • Battle Royale: The cornerstone of Fortnite’s success, this game mode features 100 players in an intense fight to become the last person standing.
  • Creative: In Creative mode, participants can build unique islands and engage in custom gameplay experiences.
  • Save the World: Embarking on a cooperative gaming adventure, gamers must confront zombie-like creatures while erecting protective structures.
  • V-Bucks: This digital currency facilitates the acquisition of cosmetic goods such as skins, emotes, and in-game items.
  • Battle Pass: With a seasonal subscription, players can access exclusive cosmetic rewards and tackle challenges.
  • Merchandise: A vast selection of Fortnite-themed merchandise—including clothing, accessories, and collectibles—is offered for avid fans.
  • Esports: Competing for monetary prizes, professional gamers can engage in Fortnite’s flourishing esports scene via various tournaments and contests.