Disney buys part of Epic Games for $1.5 billion and will create new universe of entertainment and games

The Walt Disney Company has announced the acquisition of shares in Epic Games for $1.5 billion to create a new gaming and entertainment universe connected to Fortnite.

Reportedly, this new universe will offer consumers various ways to play, watch, purchase, and interact with content, characters, and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar, and more. The specifics of how the integration with Fortnite will work are not specified, but Disney states that players will be able to "create their own stories and experiences," "show their passion in Disney's signature style," and share content.

According to The Verge, Disney's new initiative is reminiscent of the recent collaboration between Fortnite and LEGO, where an adventure mode with LEGO graphics was introduced within the game.

Disney CEO Bob Iger emphasized that this announced collaboration represents the company's largest investment in the gaming industry, providing significant opportunities for growth and expansion. It's worth noting that this is not the first partnership between Disney and Fortnite. Over the years, various Disney characters have entered the battle royale, and in 2020, a whole Marvel-themed season took place. 

Fortnite is based on Unreal Engine 5 and is available under a "free-to-play" model. The battle royale is accessible on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, S, Switch, and Android. The launch date of the new universe is not specified, but judging by the teaser, the wait won't be long.