Epic Games pays Sony for 'Fortnite' cross-play

Epic Games

As Epic Games' challenge of Apple's 30% cut goes to court, we're learning more about the company and its popular game, Fortnite. One of the latest discoveries is that Epic reached an agreement with Sony to pay extra for cross-play support. And the developer continues to pay to this day. 

This information was revealed when Epic CEO Tim Sweeney was asked by the cross-examiner how cross-platform play works in Fortnite, especially when it comes to profits from purchases made via "cross-wallet" features (including features like skins you can buy on one platform and use on others).

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You can now stream 'Fortnite' on Houseparty

If streaming your Fortnite games to your friends appeals to you, that's now possible with Houseparty's new Fortnite integration. It builds on the company's existing integration that brought live video chat into Fortnite using Houseparty's technology. So, your friends can see you live through your smartphone camera while also showing a feed of your active Fortnite game.

According to Epic, the feature supports streams from the PlayStation 4 or 5 or the PC. There are plans to support more platforms in the future. This easy integration was made possible because Epic owns Houseparty after acquiring it in 2019. If you want to find out how you can stream on Houseparty, you can check this FAQ page.

Source: The Verge

You can watch animated shorts on 'Fortnite' this weekend

If you spend time in Fortnite's no-combat mode Party Royale this weekend, you'll get to enjoy some animated shorts this weekend. The game is hosting its "Short Nite" film festival starting on February 20, at 11 a.m. PT or 2 p.m. ET, until the same time the next day. This 24-hour event will show a new short film in the Party Royale mode every 30 minutes.

According to Epic Games' press release, "The films were made by creators and directors from around the world, and feature several award-winning shorts, including winners of the Academy Awards, BAFTAs, and Emmys."

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Epic doesn't plan to hold in-person 'Fortnite' tournaments in 2021

Source: Epic Games

While the COVID-19 pandemic recovery remains uncertain, Epic Games has no plan to hold a 2021 Fortnite World Cup. Instead, its focus will be on the Fortnite Champion Series, with an emphasis on trios. But Epic still hopes physical tournaments will return at some point, and it is looking to experiment with other formats, too.

“We’re looking at other avenues for high-level competition 2021,” Epic says. “Beyond our biggest competitions, in 2021, we’re putting together a schedule featuring more weekly tournaments, unique tournaments, and Creator Cups throughout the year.”

Source: The Verge