What is "epic games"?

Detailed explanation, definition and information about epic games

Detailed Explanation

💾 Cached
Epic Games is an American video game and software developer based in Cary, North Carolina. Founded in 1991 by Tim Sweeney, the company has grown to become one of the most prominent players in the video game industry. Epic Games is known for creating popular video game franchises such as Fortnite, Gears of War, and Unreal Tournament, as well as developing the Unreal Engine, a widely-used game development platform.

One of the key factors that has contributed to the success of Epic Games is its innovative approach to game development. The company has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in video games, both in terms of graphics and gameplay. For example, Fortnite, which was released in 2017, introduced the battle royale genre to a mainstream audience and quickly became one of the most popular games in the world. The game's unique building mechanic, which allows players to construct structures in real-time during gameplay, has been widely praised for its innovation and depth.



In addition to its innovative game design, Epic Games has also made a name for itself by offering developers a range of tools and resources to help them create their own games. The Unreal Engine, which was first released in 1998, has become one of the most popular game development platforms in the industry, used by developers around the world to create a wide range of games across multiple platforms. The engine's powerful graphics capabilities and intuitive design tools have made it a favorite among both indie developers and major studios.

Another key factor in Epic Games' success is its approach to monetization. Unlike many other game developers, Epic Games has taken a more player-friendly approach to monetization, offering players the ability to purchase in-game items and cosmetics without affecting gameplay. This has helped to build a loyal and engaged player base, as players feel that they are not being pressured into spending money in order to enjoy the game.



One of the most significant developments in recent years for Epic Games has been the launch of the Epic Games Store. Launched in December 2018, the store is a digital distribution platform for PC games that competes directly with established platforms such as Steam. The Epic Games Store offers developers a more favorable revenue split than its competitors, taking only a 12% cut of sales compared to the 30% cut taken by Steam. This has made the Epic Games Store an attractive option for many developers, particularly indie developers who may struggle to make a profit on other platforms.

In addition to its game development and distribution efforts, Epic Games has also made a significant impact on the wider gaming industry through its Unreal Engine. The engine is used not only for game development but also for a wide range of other applications, including virtual reality experiences, architectural visualization, and film production. The engine's versatility and power have made it a favorite among developers in a wide range of industries, and its impact on the wider tech world cannot be understated.



One of the most notable recent developments for Epic Games has been its legal battle with Apple. In August 2020, Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of anti-competitive behavior for its App Store policies. The lawsuit was sparked by Apple's decision to remove Fortnite from the App Store after Epic Games introduced a direct payment system that bypassed Apple's 30% commission on in-app purchases. The legal battle has since escalated, with both companies taking legal action against each other in multiple jurisdictions around the world.

Despite its legal troubles, Epic Games continues to be a major player in the video game industry, with a strong lineup of upcoming games and continued support for its existing titles. The company's commitment to innovation, player-friendly monetization, and support for developers has helped to solidify its position as one of the leading game developers in the world. With the continued success of Fortnite, the growth of the Epic Games Store, and the ongoing development of the Unreal Engine, Epic Games looks set to remain a major force in the industry for years to come.