The Original Fortnite: Before Battle Royale Took Over
The original Fortnite game was called “Fortnite: Save the World.” This cooperative player-versus-environment (PvE) game tasked up to four players with defending against hordes of zombie-like creatures by building forts, crafting weapons, and completing various missions. This original vision for Fortnite existed long before the globally recognized Battle Royale mode catapulted the franchise into superstardom.
The Genesis of Fortnite: Save the World
The concept of Fortnite was born from an internal game jam at Epic Games around 2011, following the success of Gears of War 3. The developers aimed to create something “different and fun,” which led them to a cooperative PVE zombie game. This would become Fortnite: Save the World, a game where players would work together to battle “husks” (the zombie-like creatures) and protect their world. It was initially announced in 2011, though development took several years.
Early Access and Launch
Fortnite: Save the World was first released in Early Access on July 21, 2017, for those who had pre-ordered the game. Initially, it was available on Xbox One, PC, Mac, and PlayStation 4. The game became available to everyone on July 25, 2017. This marked the true beginning of Fortnite, albeit in a form drastically different from what most associate with the name today. At this time, it was sold as a $40 retail product, without the now-famous Battle Royale mode.
The Pivotal Shift: The Rise of Battle Royale
Two months after the launch of Save the World, Epic Games released Fortnite Battle Royale. This free-to-play mode, inspired by the growing popularity of the battle royale genre, quickly caught the attention of the public. Battle Royale’s massive popularity overshadowed Save the World and became the core association of the word “Fortnite” in pop culture. Though it wasn’t the original vision for the game, this mode was the key to Fortnite’s massive global appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Original Fortnite
To help clarify more details about Fortnite: Save the World and its history, here are 15 frequently asked questions:
1. Is Fortnite still a zombie game?
While the original concept of Fortnite centered around a cooperative PvE zombie experience in Save the World, the majority of players today associate Fortnite with its Battle Royale mode. Save the World mode is still available, but it’s far less popular.
2. Was Fortnite originally a PC game first?
No, Fortnite was not originally a PC-exclusive game. When it was launched into Early Access on September 26, 2017, it was available on macOS, PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One simultaneously. This multi-platform release was crucial for its initial accessibility.
3. Why is it called Fortnite?
The name “Fortnite” was derived from the game’s original Save the World mode, where the goal was to survive for a fortnight (two weeks). The developers simplified it to just “Fortnite”. Later the Battle Royale mode was added, using the same name, which is why the name is still relevant.
4. What was Fortnite called in China?
In China, Fortnite was known as “Fortress Night.” It was operated by Tencent Games, a major investor in Epic Games. The beta version of this was shut down in November 2021.
5. How long is a Fortnite?
A “fortnight” is a period of two weeks or 14 days. This term is not as commonly used as it once was in some areas, so the game’s name could sound unusual to some.
6. Is Fortnite over 18?
No, Fortnite is not an 18+ game. It’s rated “T” for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB), which means it is appropriate for ages 13 and up. The rating is mainly due to the game’s mild violence, including the use of weapons. It is also rated 12+ by PEGI in Europe.
7. Is Fortnite a beta?
No, Fortnite is no longer considered to be in beta. While the game continues to be updated with new content and features, it is not considered a beta version. It is a fully released game with ongoing improvements.
8. Does Save the World still exist?
Yes, Save the World still exists, but it has been moved to the “Discover” menu within the game. It was removed from the game mode select screen, making it less prominently featured. However, it remains playable for those who own it. The mode cannot be played on the Nintendo Switch.
9. Is Fortnite a 12-year-old game?
The game is rated 12+ by the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system, meaning that it contains content that might not be suitable for children below this age. This is due to scenes of mild violence involving weapon use.
10. Was Fortnite created in 2010?
No, Fortnite was not created in 2010. It was first announced in 2011, with development starting around that time. The game was eventually released in 2017.
11. Is there an OG Fortnite game?
The term “OG Fortnite” refers to the original version of Fortnite Battle Royale, especially the map and gameplay from Chapter 1, particularly around season 5. The new season called Fortnite OG is bringing back these older versions of the game.
12. Did Fortnite exist in 2011?
Fortnite began as a concept and internal project at Epic Games around 2011 after the release of Gears of War 3. This marks the initial phase of what would become the multi-game behemoth we know today.
13. Is Fortnite a Gen Z game?
Fortnite is particularly popular with Gen Z, with a high percentage of them playing the game. However, it has also seen significant popularity across other generations, including Gen X. It’s a brand that appeals to a wide range of ages.
14. Is Fortnite still popular?
Yes, Fortnite remains one of the most popular battle royale games globally. Despite the existence of other popular battle royales such as Warzone or Apex Legends, Fortnite continues to hold a leading position in the gaming industry.
15. Who owns Fortnite?
Fortnite is owned by Epic Games. Tim Sweeney, the co-founder and CEO, is the majority shareholder, owning more than 50% of the company. Tencent holds a stake of over 40% in the company. Epic Games handles the development, publishing, and distribution of its games.
Conclusion
Fortnite: Save the World was the original vision for the game, a cooperative zombie survival title that focused on base building, crafting, and team-based missions. While Battle Royale has come to dominate the Fortnite brand, the initial concept of Save the World is still available and continues to play a crucial part in the game’s history. Understanding the origins of Fortnite allows players to appreciate the evolution of this gaming phenomenon and gives context to the many changes the franchise has experienced since its early beginnings.