Epic Games has announced a significant restructuring, which includes the discontinuation of several game modes within its popular title, Fortnite, and the removal of certain standalone racing games from digital storefronts. This strategic shift coincides with the recent layoff of over 1,000 employees, indicating a period of recalibration for the company.
Epic Games Streamlines Offerings: Fortnite Modes and Horizon Chase Titles Affected
In a move reflecting a re-evaluation of its product portfolio, Epic Games is winding down three specific Fortnite game modes: Rocket Racing, Ballistic, and Festival Battle Stage. The company acknowledged that these modes did not achieve the desired level of player engagement, stating, "we failed to build something awesome enough to attract and retain a large player base."
Specifically, "Ballistic," which had been described as a less-serious take on Counter-Strike, and "Fortnite Festival's Battle Stage," a musical player-versus-player experience, are scheduled to cease operations on April 16, coinciding with the launch of Fortnite 40.20. Rocket Racing, along with any user-created content developed using its templates, will be phased out by October 2026. Prior to its full removal, Rocket Racing Quests will be eliminated next week, its track creation template will be withdrawn from the Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), and no further ranked rewards will be distributed this season.
Beyond the Fortnite ecosystem, Epic Games is also ceasing sales of the standalone racing games "Horizon Chase" (a mobile title) and "Horizon Chase Turbo." The latter, a 2018 release inspired by classic 1980s and '90s arcade racers, holds a "very positive" rating on Steam, suggesting a dedicated fan base. Both titles are slated for removal from sale on June 1. However, "Horizon Chase 2," which launched as an Epic Games Store exclusive in 2023, will continue to be available. The future development of new games in the "Horizon Chase" series appears uncertain, especially given Epic's acquisition of developer Aquiris in 2023, which was subsequently rebranded as Epic Games Brasil with a mandate to focus on "groundbreaking content and social experiences within Fortnite."
This consolidation of offerings and personnel adjustments suggest a concerted effort by Epic Games to optimize its resources, focusing on core successful ventures and shedding those that have not met performance expectations. While these decisions may disappoint some players and fans, they underscore the dynamic and competitive nature of the gaming industry, where continuous adaptation is crucial for long-term sustainability and growth.
