Is Fall Guys Owned by Fortnite? Unraveling the Epic Games Connection
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is no, Fall Guys is not owned by Fortnite. However, the relationship is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While Fortnite and Fall Guys remain distinct games, they share a common parent company: Epic Games. This article delves into the specifics of this relationship, exploring the history, acquisitions, collaborations, and future of these two popular titles.
The Acquisition: Epic Games and Mediatonic
The key event in understanding the connection between Fall Guys and Fortnite is Epic Games’ acquisition of Tonic Games Group in March 2021. Tonic Games Group is the parent company of Mediatonic, the UK-based studio that developed Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout. This acquisition didn’t make Fall Guys a Fortnite property, but rather brought the development team and the Fall Guys IP under the Epic Games umbrella.
Why Did Epic Games Buy Mediatonic?
Epic Games’ rationale behind the acquisition likely stemmed from a desire to diversify its portfolio and capitalize on the immense popularity of Fall Guys. The game’s unique blend of platforming, battle royale mechanics, and colorful, cartoonish aesthetic resonated with a broad audience, offering a different experience than Fortnite‘s more competitive, shooter-focused gameplay. Bringing Mediatonic into the fold allowed Epic Games to tap into a new creative well and strengthen its position in the gaming market.
Fall Guys Goes Free-to-Play
Shortly after the acquisition, a significant shift occurred: Fall Guys transitioned to a free-to-play model. This move, mirroring Epic Games’ successful strategy with Fortnite, broadened the game’s accessibility and significantly increased its player base. The free-to-play launch coincided with the game’s release on Xbox and Nintendo Switch, further expanding its reach. With crossplay and cross-progression, players on all supported platforms could now join the chaotic fun.
Collaborations and Crossovers
While Fall Guys and Fortnite remain distinct games, there have been collaborations between the two titles, blurring the lines of their separate identities. These collaborations typically involve the introduction of Fall Guys-themed skins and cosmetic items in Fortnite, and vice versa. This cross-promotion not only generates excitement among players of both games but also introduces each title to a new audience.
Destiny 2 Crossover
One notable example of Epic Games leveraging its portfolio is the Destiny 2 crossover, which included content for both Fortnite and Fall Guys. This event highlights the synergy Epic Games can create between its properties, offering players unique and interconnected experiences.
Separate Identities, Shared Ownership
Despite the shared ownership and occasional crossovers, it’s important to emphasize that Fall Guys and Fortnite retain their distinct identities. Fortnite remains a battle royale game with building mechanics, while Fall Guys offers a lighthearted, obstacle course-based competition. Mediatonic continues to develop and support Fall Guys, maintaining its unique gameplay and art style.
Mediatonic Layoffs
Recent news regarding layoffs at Mediatonic as part of Epic Games’ broader cost-cutting measures has raised concerns about the future of Fall Guys. While the studio itself will not be closed, the layoffs undoubtedly impact the development team and could potentially affect the frequency and scope of future updates.
The Future of Fall Guys
The future of Fall Guys under Epic Games’ ownership remains uncertain. While the game’s transition to free-to-play has proven successful in attracting a large player base, maintaining long-term engagement requires consistent updates, innovative content, and a supportive development team. The recent layoffs at Mediatonic raise questions about Epic Games’ commitment to the game’s future, but only time will tell what lies ahead for the colorful battle royale.
If you are interested in the academic study of video games and their impact on society, explore resources and research on the Games Learning Society website, GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Epic Games own Fall Guys?
Yes, Epic Games owns Fall Guys through its acquisition of Tonic Games Group, the parent company of Mediatonic, the game’s developer.
2. Did Fortnite make Fall Guys?
No, Fortnite did not make Fall Guys. Fall Guys was developed by Mediatonic. However, both companies are owned by the same parent company: Epic Games.
3. Is Fall Guys more popular than Fortnite?
At certain points, particularly shortly after its initial release, Fall Guys experienced peak viewership that surpassed Fortnite. However, Fortnite generally maintains a larger and more consistent player base.
4. Is Fall Guys free on all platforms?
Yes, Fall Guys is free-to-play on PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PC (via the Epic Games Store).
5. What did players who bought Fall Guys before it went free get?
Players who purchased Fall Guys before it went free-to-play received a “Legacy Pack,” which included a nickname, nameplate, three costumes, and access to a premium season pass.
6. Why did Fall Guys become free?
Epic Games likely made Fall Guys free-to-play to broaden its accessibility and increase its player base, a strategy that proved successful with Fortnite.
7. Is Stumble Guys a copy of Fall Guys?
Stumble Guys is a game that is very similar to Fall Guys, with many considering it a clone. There have been claims of both games copying elements from each other.
8. When did Epic Games buy Mediatonic?
Epic Games acquired Tonic Games Group (and therefore Mediatonic) in March 2021.
9. What is Fortnite?
Fortnite is an online video game developed by Epic Games, comprising Fortnite: Save the World and Fortnite Battle Royale. The latter is a free-to-play battle royale game.
10. Who owns Fortnite?
Epic Games owns Fortnite. Tim Sweeney, co-founder, and CEO is the major shareholder, holding over 50% of the company.
11. Are Fall Guys and Fortnite collaborating?
Yes, Fall Guys and Fortnite have collaborated on various occasions, featuring crossover skins and cosmetic items in both games.
12. What is Epic Games display name?
If your Epic Games display name has been automatically reset, it’s because you’ve violated one of the Community Guidelines.
13. How long has Fortnite existed?
Fortnite was released in 2017.
14. What was Fortnite originally called?
Fortnite was originally launched as Fortnite: Save the World, a cooperative survival game.
15. Will Fall Guys be permanently free?
As of now, Fall Guys is available to download for free on the Epic Games Store, and once added to your collection, you’ll own it permanently, and can play it whenever you want. It is expected to remain a free-to-play game.