Fortnite x Disney collab to bring huge gameplay changes and iconic characters, Epic reveals

There is no love lost between Epic Games and Disney as both companies have collaborated quite often and brought numerous entertainment franchises to the former’s BR title Fortnite. Whether it’s Star Wars, Marvel or even the most recent The Incredibles, Disney is doubling down with Epic to build its own universe within the already expansive metaverse that Fortnite has now become.

Earlier this year in February 2024, Epic and Disney made a major announcement that shook the gaming community: to bring an “Expansive and Open Games and Entertainment Universe Connected to Fortnite” for their fans. Disney also announced they’ll invest $1.5 billion to acquire an equity stake in Epic Games alongside the multiyear project.

However, now certain crucial details about the said collaboration are revealed which changes the entire gameplay and connected experience for Fortnite players.

Disney characters like Mickey Mouse “won’t hold a gun” in Fortnite, says Epic

During Unreal Fest 2024, Epic Games EVP Saxs Persson sat down with The Verge and revealed some details about the Disney x Fortnite connected universe project. He said, “Disney wants a persistent place where all things Disney can be there, but they want to be part of an ecosystem we’ve built.”

Expanding upon his comment he revealed the partnership between the two will result in a new app or as he calls it a “front door” where a Disney fan can enter their choice of experience, whereas a Fortnite player will enter through the Fortnite front door which will take him to Epic’s side of the experience. However, the lockers between the two will be seamlessly connected.

When asked about how Disney characters will play out in traditional Battle Royale gameplay in Fortnite, Persson revealed not all characters from the brand will be able to hold guns. “A [Lego] minifig doesn’t hold a gun. Brands should be able to enforce the brand guidelines to the degree that they’re comfortable with that brand being associated with particular ratings”, Persson explained.

Soon, Fortnite players will get characters such as Maleficent, Cruella De Ville, and Captain Hook in the game, but they’re not going to be the ones you’ll find without a gun.

“Some IPs are not teen IPs or mature IPs. They are E for everyone IPs”, said Persson why some of the characters like Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck will be restricted from using weapons and will offer a different gameplay experience to players.

While neither Epic nor Disney have revealed when the said collab will release in Fortnite, players are currently on a Marvel high after a cinematic live event featuring Doctor Doom has left them wanting more from the current season.