Fortnite Battle Royale was released on July 17, 2017. From the get-go, this-third person shooter game immediately received high praise for several reasons. For one, the element of three-dimensional building controls were included for the first time ever in a shooting game. This is the most unique part of the game, and in my opinion, really accelerates Fortnite ahead of any other first or third person shooting games I have ever played. 

For me, building has become the most vital part of my gameplay. Ever since I switched from the standard building controls to the builder pro controls with custom key binds, I have become a much better builder and editor as well. Secondly, the vibrant, cartoon-like graphics in Fortnite really hit home for all day one Fortnite players. From those beautiful and graphic sunsets, to the well designed and detailed buildings, Fortnite has included a visual appeal to gamers that is not seen in games of its competitors. Games such as Call of Duty, Legends, and CS GO all provide a darker, more war scene type of map. As a gamer, I enjoy the bright colors because it not only gives me a better feel in the game, but also enhances my vision when approaching opponents in the distance. 

Furthermore, Fortnite is a free game, with optional purchases once downloaded. When I first heard of the game, this was intriguing to me because even if I did not end up enjoying the gameplay, it would be at no charge. However, the creators (Epic Games) have done a great job including things such as battle passes and new daily item shops to interest people in purchasing items such as pickaxes, skins and gliders. They created a virtual currency called V-Bucks that they allow gamers to purchase for in game credit. For example, a legendary glider or skin would be worth 2,000 V-Bucks, or 20 American dollars. This is very appealing to the young gaming audience because Epic Games comes out with cool and new skins almost every day to make you stand out in battle royale matches. 

Ever since the hype around Fortnite emerged, a plethora of celebrities started playing it as well. Fans of the game include Drake, Travis Scott and Juju Smith-Schuster. In an article by Redbull.com, “Fortnite has also become the third most viewed and streamed game on Twitch, behind League of Legends and CS:GO.” Fortnite has also created a gaming and streaming career for many up and coming streamers. The game created a competitive game mode called Arena which allowed players to cue up in more competitive, high intensity matches. Additionally, Fortnite holds weekly tournaments in which professional players compete with one another in scrim type matches that are full of explosive gameplay. Of the more popular streamers, Ninja, Mongraal, TFue and TSM Myth really built the foundation of Fortnite mechanics and were the first group of streamers that helped create the Fortnite fan base. Epic Games has also set up many pro-am events as well, that have included many professional athletes, music artists and big name movie actors.

Lastly, the activity of the Fortnite community is unlike any other. Considering the game has been around over years now, Epic Games has been adding new elements in the game that continue to attract gamers. For example, new landing locations on the map, new weapons and new building and aiming mechanics. All of this together allows players to try out new settings and improve their in game skills. 

Overall, Fortnite is indisputably the best game of the decade, simply due to its uniqueness and ability to stay appealing to all age groups. Personally, I will always be a fan of the game and continue to support its content creators as well. I have never had this much fun playing a video game with my friends before and I will forever appreciate Fortnite for being a part of my childhood.