Today, Fortnite is best known for its free-to-play battle royale mode that attracts millions of players around the world. However, originally, the franchise was based on a completely different concept. Before the explosion of battle royale in 2017, Epic Games offered Fortnite: Save the Worlda cooperative game combining shooting, building and resource collection. Unlike the current main mode, this title was sold as a premium game.
But almost a decade later, Epic Games has decided to change strategy. The studio announced that Fortnite: Save the World will become free on all platforms starting April 16including on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. This decision could allow a new generation of players to discover this historic mode.
Fortnite’s original mode becomes free-to-play
Fortnite: Save the World is often considered to be the true starting point of the franchise. In this cooperative mode, players must defend different areas against waves of creatures called Husks. The gameplay combines several mechanics:
- third person shooting
- resource collection
- construction of fortifications
- character progression
Unlike battle royale, the objective is not to face other players, but to cooperate to protect the planet against a mysterious invasion. Epic Games describes this mode as “the game that started it all”. With its new free access, Save the World could find a second lease of life.
An opening planned for April 16
Epic Games has confirmed that the transition to free-to-play will be effective on April 16. Players can already express their interest by registering in advance. According to the publisher, this system will also unlock additional rewards for the community. Epic Games explains in its announcement: “After nearly ten years, the game that started it all welcomes even more players to join the fight. » The studio also specifies that players already present will receive several bonuses to celebrate this anniversary.
Rewards for current players
Players who already own Save the World will not be forgotten. Epic Games has announced that they will receive several in-game rewards when the transition to the free-to-play model takes effect. These awards will include:
- of the Superchargers
- of the reward vouchers
- of thegold at stake
According to Epic Games: “As thanks for nine years of saving the world, current players will receive several special rewards. » This move aims to thank the community who have supported Save the World mode since its inception.
A decision linked to Fortnite’s economic changes
This announcement comes in a particular context for the Fortnite ecosystem. Epic Games recently confirmed an increase in the price of V-Bucks, the virtual currency used in the game. In practice, players will continue to pay the same price, but will receive fewer V-Bucks for the same amount.
Save the World’s move to free-to-play can therefore be interpreted as a way of balancing these changes. By making this mode free, Epic Games is offering players a new way to experience Fortnite without an upfront cost. Almost ten years after its release, Save the World could thus experience a new phase of popularity.