Fortnite, particularly its Battle Royale mode, has become a dominant force in many households, including mine. Unless you’ve been living under a rock or still hunting for Pokémon in local parks, chances are it’s taken over your home too.
This single game has consumed more of my children’s time than any other games combined, including my now-adult children. It manages to captivate everyone in my family, from my 10-year-old to my 18-year-old. Surprisingly, it’s not just the kids who are hooked; people of all ages are engaged. My children have even connected with their friends’ parents during gameplay, and my son has reported that his entire college dorm is often filled with shouts of strategy and excitement during late-night sessions.
Currently, it’s estimated that over 40 million players are active on various platforms. Even when they’re not playing, my kids can be found glued to their screens watching others play on Twitch or browsing strategy guides on YouTube. At one point, I started worrying about the amount of time spent on the game and its content, but after some research, I decided to impose limits on their playtime instead of banning it altogether.
If you’re unfamiliar with Fortnite and its widespread appeal, here are some key points to consider:
- It’s Free to Play
How did my kids get hooked on this game? The answer is simple: it’s free. Initially launched for desktop computers and later made available on gaming consoles and mobile devices, Fortnite can be downloaded at no cost. In fact, its mobile app is currently the highest-rated app in 47 countries. - Survival Shooter Concept
The objective is straightforward: be the last player standing on the island. Each match begins with 100 players parachuting onto a map armed only with a pickaxe. It’s akin to a video game version of The Hunger Games. Players can compete solo or team up with up to three others, working together to survive as the play area shrinks due to an encroaching storm. - Accessibility and Short Matches
My kids often play together, which fosters a sense of camaraderie that contributes to the game’s popularity. Unlike other intricate shooter games, Fortnite requires little skill to play effectively, and newcomers can win on their first attempt. Matches are brief, can be joined or exited at any time (so don’t fall for the “I can’t leave now” excuse!), and the teamwork aspect can make it more enjoyable. - Cartoonish Violence
One of my concerns about Fortnite is its violent content, as the ultimate goal is to eliminate other players. However, the graphics are cartoonish, with absurd scenarios (like players in animal costumes battling astronauts) that lessen the impact. Unlike more graphic games such as Grand Theft Auto, Fortnite’s lack of blood and gore makes it feel less intense. - Optional In-Game Purchases
Unlike many other games that push players to make constant purchases, Fortnite allows players to enjoy the game without feeling pressured to buy anything. While there are microtransactions available, the game offers a one-time $10 “battle pass” option that many families find reasonable.
Fortnite shows no signs of waning in popularity. Just look at celebrities like Drake, who recently streamed gameplay and created a media frenzy. Athletes and gamers alike are frequently seen showcasing their Fortnite skills and dances on social media.
For parents, it has become a valuable tool for negotiating chores. Want to dive into the game? Complete your chores first, and then the gaming console is all yours. It’s a win-win situation.
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In summary, Fortnite is a free-to-play survival shooter game that has captivated players of all ages with its accessibility, cartoonish graphics, and engaging gameplay. While it raises some concerns about screen time and content, careful moderation can allow it to coexist with family life.
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