Tag: Epic Games

  • Why Unreal Engine 6 vs 5: Is 5 Finished?

    Why Unreal Engine 6 vs 5: Is 5 Finished?

    Key Takeaway

    – UE6 is viewed as risky: concerns about restarting with a new engine while UE5 still has unfinished aspects, plus potential workflow disruptions for developers.
    – Skepticism centers on performance and stability: ongoing stuttering, high hardware requirements, and “experimental”-feeling features in current tech like Lumen and Nanite.
    – Potential upside if improvements materialize: better multithreading, lower CPU bottlenecks, stable frame rates, and a smoother transition could make UE6 appealing despite early doubts.

    Unreal Engine 6 announcement sparks mixed reactions

    Unreal Engine 6 was officially announced alongside a graphics update for Rocket League, but early reactions have been more skeptical than enthusiastic. On Reddit, many users are essentially asking: “Why is Unreal Engine 6 already coming when Unreal Engine 5 still doesn’t feel finished?” Developers still report persistent issues with performance, stuttering and features that continue to feel experimental. Technologies such as Lumen and Nanite may be technically impressive, but they still come with high hardware requirements and ongoing optimization problems.

    Why skip to a new version before polishing the old one?

    Many observers are now wondering why Epic Games is not making Unreal Engine 5 run smoothly before moving on to Unreal Engine 6. One obvious theory is that UE6 could also serve as a fresh start for Epic, helping the company distance itself from UE5’s somewhat tarnished reputation. At the same time, major additions such as improved multithreading, Verse and deeper integration with Fortnite and UEFN may affect the engine so profoundly that Epic prefers to present them as a new major version rather than another UE5 update.

    Developers voice concerns about moving to UE6

    Besides gamers, game developers are watching the situation especially closely. Switching to a new engine can create opportunities, but in practice it can also mean plenty of trouble: broken plugins, changed workflows and new bugs. Many developers therefore want to watch UE6 from a safe distance for now instead of moving active productions straight to the new version. One of the top comments in the Reddit discussion appears to come from a developer:

    It’s hard to get excited for UE6 when I spent a lot of UE5’s lifecycle waiting for things to not feel experimental. This doesn’t bode well for that reason. That said, it’s a free engine that I benefit from, so unless they completely break the things I need, I don’t care.

    Would UE6 be worth it if improvements land as promised?

    Still, people are not entirely opposed to Unreal Engine 6. If Epic manages to deliver the promised improvements to multithreading support, UE6 could address exactly the areas where UE5 is criticized most: CPU utilization and stuttering. Ideally, the new engine would deliver graphics quality comparable to UE5 while running much more efficiently, with lower system requirements, more stable frame rates and fewer technical compromises. If Epic succeeds, the current skepticism toward UE6 could fade rather quickly.

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  • Tim Sweeney Grills Steam Deck Price Rise; Calls Gabe Newell Greedy

    Tim Sweeney Grills Steam Deck Price Rise; Calls Gabe Newell Greedy

    Key Takeaway

    – Tim Sweeney criticized the Steam Deck price hikes, arguing that Valve should absorb rising component costs while noting that Steam customer spending funds parts.
    – The backlash to Valve’s price increases was predominantly negative, with comparisons to other handhelds positioning the Asus ROG Xbox The Ally as a potential bargain.
    – Critics pointed to Sweeney’s own business criticisms of Valve’s monopoly on digital game marketplaces, suggesting the dispute is as much about market power as about prices.

    Tim Sweeney weighs in on Steam Deck price rise

    Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has a contentious history with Valve. It’s not surprising then that he would chime in on the recent Steam Deck price increase. On social media, he sarcastically criticized the move, arguing that Gabe Newell should absorb the rising component costs.

    Context and contents of the post

    Sweeney shared a Pirat_Nation post that speculated about a $1500 Steam Machine price. The mini PC may also ship for a higher-than-expected MSRP on its unannounced release date. For now, buyers only know that the Steam Deck OLED 1TB is $949, while the LCD 512GB version is $789. Those are significant hikes of $300 and $240 on the gaming handhelds.

    Response to shortages and market claims

    The Epic Games chief acknowledges the component shortage that Valve used to justify the changes. However, he counters that “Steam customer spending ultimately funds” the parts. With its popular marketplace, some analysts believe that the company earns at least $10 billion in revenue each year.

    Public jab and perceived wealth

    Taking a jab at majority owner Gabe Newell, the post snarkily says the “supply chain for megayachts” has also been disrupted. Newell enjoys lounging on the enormous boats, viewed as symbols of his immense wealth. While cruising, he rarely makes controversial public statements.

    Public reception and parallels

    The reaction to the Steam Deck price increase has been overwhelmingly negative. Although gaming handhelds from Lenovo and MSI are now more expensive, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally looks like a bargain. It’s also raised concerns about the Steam Machine, which many insiders expect to sell for well over $1000.

    Community sentiment and criticisms

    Despite the outcry, Sweeney didn’t find much support on social media. Gamers accuse him of his own bad business practices, including several rounds of layoffs at Epic Games. Other fans think the CEO is jealous of the superior Steam launcher and its connected thriving communities.

    Underlying discourse

    In reality, the criticism may have little to do with the cost of the Steam Deck and Steam Machine. Sweeney has attacked Newell’s company for having a monopoly on digital gaming marketplaces.

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  • Tim Sweeney: Epic to Overcome Insurance Challenges for Laid-Off Developer

    Tim Sweeney: Epic to Overcome Insurance Challenges for Laid-Off Developer

    Key Takeaway

    1. Tim Sweeney publicly committed to resolving the lack of life insurance coverage for laid-off employee Michael Prinke, who has terminal brain cancer.
    2. Sweeney clarified that Prinke’s medical condition was not a factor in the layoff due to confidentiality laws, but the company is now working to address the insurance issue.
    3. The situation has ignited broader debates about layoffs, employee healthcare, and company responsibility, especially concerning employees with pre-existing conditions.

    Epic Games Boss Addresses Tragedy

    Tim Sweeney, the head of Epic Games, has spoken out about a sad event where an employee who was laid off recently find out he has terminal brain cancer, and unfortunately, he didn’t have any life insurance. This has caused a lot of upset, but Sweeney promise to help the family now that he knows about it, sharing this via a public post on social media platform X.

    Public Support for the Family

    He revealed that he’s now in touch directly with the family after Jenni Griffin, the wife of Michael Prinke, posted a message that gained attention fast because many people saw and shared it. Sweeney said he will do what he can for them to fix the situation regarding insurance and support, promising to address the problem head-on. He made clear that he was not aware of the illness during the layoffs because of company rules about privacy, but now he wants to make things right.

    Reaction and Updates

    Fast after the news went public, Sweeney responded to the viral post by assuring everyone that health details are confidential and that these medical issues weren’t part of the layoff decisions. He apologized to the public for not anticipating this devastating situation and promised to resolve the insurance coverage for Prinke’s family. Jenni Griffin later shared an update on social media, showing that talks with the right people are underway which might lead to a solution soon.

    Layoffs and Context

    In 2026, Epic Games fired more than a thousand staff because Fortnite’s player numbers dropped and the company was overspending without enough revenue. The layoffs were a move to keep the business stable. Among those let go was Michael Prinke, who had worked for seven years and contributed significantly to documentation and tools for Unreal Engine.

    His wife expressed her frustration on Facebook, saying that because Michael’s brain cancer was a pre-existing condition, he wasn’t able to get life insurance from other sources. This adds a layer of complexity to their financial and emotional struggles during a very difficult time.

    Online Debates and Corporate Responsibility

    The situation has stirred up many discussions on the internet about how companies manage layoffs, especially when vulnerable employees are involved. Many people feel that corporations should be more upfront and compassionate during such process, particularly for those with serious health issues. For now, it seems that Tim Sweeney has taken a step in the right direction by acknowledging the problem and proactively working to support Michael Prinke’s family. His efforts reflect a recognition of corporate responsibility in times of personal crisis.

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  • Epic Games layoffs: developer with terminal brain cancer loses life insurance

    Epic Games layoffs: developer with terminal brain cancer loses life insurance

    Key Takeaway

    1. Epic Games’ layoffs caused severe personal consequences, including the loss of life insurance for employees battling critical health issues.
    2. The termination of life insurance due to layoffs directly impacted Michael Prinke, a cancer patient, leaving his family in financial and emotional distress.
    3. The situation highlights the human toll of corporate decisions made in response to business challenges, underscoring concerns about accountability and compassion.

    Epic Games’ layoffs lead to tragic consequences for employee battling cancer

    Recently, the video game industry has seen an increase in layoffs, but the one from Epic Games was especially heartbreaking. The company, famous for Fortnite, laid off about 1,000 staff members because of a significant decline in player activity projected to continue into 2025, which led to higher costs than profits. The CEO Tim Sweeney stated that these layoffs were necessary to keep the business going, offering workers four months of severance and six months of health coverage in the US. Despite these efforts, stories of the impacted employees are emerging, with one family suffering immensely.

    The personal story of Michael Prinke

    Michael Prinke, who had worked as a programmer and technical writer at Epic for nearly seven years, was among those who lost his job. His wife, Jenni Griffin, took to Facebook to explain how the layoffs worsened his already serious health predicament, as he is fighting terminal brain cancer. Because he was employed full-time, he had company-provided life insurance, giving some peace of mind for his family’s future. But, with his job lost, this vital coverage was cut off instantly. She shared heartbreaking details, stating that his pre-existing condition now disqualifies him from getting new life insurance anywhere else, leaving her feeling helpless and overwhelmed.

    The toll of the layoffs on a family

    Jenni Griffin wrote about the grim reality they now face: how to pay for a funeral, keep their home, protect their child, and care for their dogs. She shared a picture of a brain MRI showing an aggressive tumor in the frontal lobe, pleading with Epic’s decision-makers for help. She emphasized that Michael isn’t just another employee; he’s her husband, their child’s father, and a beloved person. Their limited time together makes her desperate to find support, hoping that someone from Epic, who approved the layoffs, would understand the human impact of their decision.

    Epic’s response and hope for support

    While Michael’s health insurance remains active for now, losing his life insurance leaves his family vulnerable, especially during such a critical time. His wife expressed her fears about their future but also shared that, since her post, Epic staff have reached out. An update indicated that discussions are underway with the relevant parties at Epic, with a promise to provide more information soon, likely by Tuesday. She ends with a plea for compassion, wishing the decision-makers recognized how their choices affected real lives and hope that assistance may be forthcoming.

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  • Epic Games Cuts 1,000 Jobs to Stay Afloat Amid Challenges

    Epic Games Cuts 1,000 Jobs to Stay Afloat Amid Challenges

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games is experiencing significant layoffs, with over 1,000 employees let go due to declining Fortnite engagement and financial struggles.
    2. The company is implementing over $500 million in cost-saving measures, including cuts to contracts, marketing, and open positions.
    3. The gaming industry is facing broader challenges, such as lower consumer spending and slower growth, impacting companies like Epic Games.
    4. Epic Games has a history of overcoming tough periods, but it remains uncertain if they can navigate their current challenges successfully.
    5. Laid-off employees in the U.S. will receive health insurance for six months and a severance package of at least four months’ salary.

    Although Epic Games is known for much more than just Fortnite, any decline in this key game’s popularity seems to affect the whole company. Currently, the American firm employs over 4,000 people while managing the widely used Unreal Engine, the Epic Games Store, and numerous games. The titles released by Epic Games Publishing include Fall Guys, Alan Wake Remastered, PC Building Simulator 2, End of Abyss, among others. Unfortunately, troubles that started in 2025 are still causing difficulties for them.

    Layoffs Announced

    A message sent to employees at Epic yesterday stated:

    “We’re letting go of more than 1000 Epic employees today. I regret that we find ourselves in this position again. The drop in engagement for Fortnite that began in 2025 has resulted in us spending much more than what we earn, and significant cuts are necessary to keep the company afloat. This layoff, along with over $500 million in identified savings through contracts, marketing, and closing certain open positions, helps us to create a more secure future.”

    Industry Challenges

    The message also discussed challenges faced across the industry, like lower spending and slower growth, along with stricter cost measures. It pointed out some unique difficulties for Epic, such as the ongoing effort to provide appealing Fortnite content each season and the initial phase of re-entering the mobile market while optimizing for that platform.

    Historical Context

    Additionally, the note reflected on the tough periods Epic had in the 1990s during the transition from 2D to 3D with Unreal 1, in the 2000s as they developed console games like Gears of War, and in 2012 when they shifted to online gaming with Paragon and Fortnite. It remains uncertain if they can overcome these challenges yet again.

    In the United States, employees who are being laid off will receive health insurance coverage for six months, along with a severance package that guarantees at least four months of their base salary.

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  • Fortnite Returns to Google Play for Android Users Worldwide

    Fortnite Returns to Google Play for Android Users Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fortnite is officially back on Google Play as of March 19, 2026, making it easier for Android users to install the game.
    2. The new “Invite a Friend” feature helps players level up and unlock the new Yeddy Outfit.
    3. Mobile updates include Marvel | Blitz matches with new loot and a redesigned Fortnite Festival Main Stage for portrait mode.
    4. Players can earn 20% back in Epic Rewards by using Epic’s payment system for purchases on Google Play.
    5. Fortnite was previously removed from Google Play in 2020 due to policy conflicts, but the relisting restores direct access for Android players.

    Fortnite is back on Google Play for users all over the world, with Epic officially announcing its return to Android on March 19, 2026. In their statement, Epic mentioned that this relisting coincides with a new season of Battle Royale, offering a more convenient way for Android players to install the game via Google’s app store.

    New Features and Friend Invites

    According to Epic’s official message, players can now easily download Fortnite from Google Play and dive into the new season alongside their friends on Android devices. The company is also using this opportunity to highlight its Invite a Friend feature, which is designed to assist players in leveling up and unlocking the new Yeddy Outfit.

    Exciting Mobile Updates

    The return to Google Play is not the only mobile update Epic has shared. They also mentioned the Marvel | Blitz matches, which now feature updated loot, including Captain America’s Shield. Additionally, the Fortnite Festival Main Stage has been updated to support portrait mode on mobile devices. Epic claims that this new layout allows players to tap directly on the note highway and includes haptic feedback during gameplay.

    Rewards and Payment Options

    Epic has also announced that players can receive 20% back in Epic Rewards when they opt to use Epic’s payment system for their purchases. This option is already available on Google Play in the United States. Moreover, Epic states that the same payment method can be used globally on iOS, the web, and through the Epic Games Store on PC. They are continuing to work on making this payment option accessible on Google Play across more regions.

    Fortnite had not been available on Google Play since 2020, when Epic launched a direct payment system that went against Google Play’s policies, resulting in the game being taken down from the store. While Android users could still play the game through alternative means, it was not a straightforward download from Google Play. The relisting on March 19 restores direct access to the Play Store for Android players everywhere.

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  • Epic Games Unveils New Free Game for Mobile Players

    Epic Games Unveils New Free Game for Mobile Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games offers free games weekly, including titles for PC and mobile users.
    2. The current free game for mobile is “Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap,” available on Android and iOS.
    3. This game is a modern remake of the classic “Wonder Boy III,” featuring updated graphics and sound.
    4. The storyline involves a protagonist cursed by the Meka-Dragon and seeking the Salamander Cross to return to human form.
    5. The game has received over 1,900 reviews on Steam, with a “Very Positive” rating, and the giveaway lasts until March 19.

    Epic Games is giving away free games every week, letting players add to their game collections without spending any money. While the focus is usually on PC games, there are also free titles for mobile users. If you enjoy gaming on a mobile device, there’s a popular 2D side-scrolling title you can grab at no cost right now.

    New Free Game Available

    Last week, Epic allowed players to download Little Nightmares for free on mobile platforms. That offer has now wrapped up, and it’s been switched out with Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap. This game can be accessed on both Android and iOS devices, and players can get it through the Epic Games Store mobile app.

    Gameplay and Features

    Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap blends action, exploration, and adventure gameplay. It’s a modern version of the classic Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap, which first came out on the Sega Master System in 1989. This remake retains the main gameplay elements of the original while introducing updated graphics and sound.

    In the storyline, the protagonist gets cursed after a defeat by the Meka-Dragon, transforming into a half-human, half-lizard creature. To revert back to their human state, the player needs to locate a magical artifact called the Salamander Cross, which can lift curses.

    Visuals and Reception

    A standout feature of the remake is its hand-drawn visuals and newly arranged soundtrack. Yet, players have the option to revert to the original 8-bit graphics and sound effects at any time during their playthrough for a nostalgic touch.

    In total, the game boasts over 1,900 reviews on Steam and carries a Very Positive rating. Just a heads-up, this giveaway is active until March 19, when it will transition to another free offering.

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  • Google Reduces Play Store Fees After Epic Settlement Changes Payments

    Google Reduces Play Store Fees After Epic Settlement Changes Payments

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is shifting its Play Store commission from “up to 30%” to a range of 10% to 20%, based on purchase type and billing method.

    2. The changes are linked to a proposed agreement with Epic Games, pending court approval, detailing new fee structures for developers.

    3. For the External Payments program, fees are set at 10% for auto-renewing subscriptions and 20% for other in-app digital content, with the first $1 million in annual earnings for eligible developers also at 10%.

    4. Google’s new developer guidelines allow for more flexibility in billing and distribution, recognizing alternative payment options alongside Google Play Billing.

    5. A “Registered App Stores” system is being planned to make it easier to install competing Android app stores, with initial rollout expected in the US, UK, and Europe.

    Google is changing its Play Store commission structure, moving away from the previous “up to 30%” model. Reports suggest that most fees will now be in the range of 10% to 20%, depending on the type of purchase and the billing method used.

    Connection to Epic Games Settlement

    These updates are part of a proposed agreement with Epic Games, which is still waiting for court approval. The specifics about the fee structure for developers are already mentioned in Google’s Play Console Help pages, which detail the costs associated with programs that direct users to outside payment options or content links.

    Fee Breakdown

    For the External Payments program, Google states that the fees for qualifying external transactions will be 10% for auto-renewing subscriptions and 20% for other in-app digital content. Notably, the first $1 million (USD) of annual earnings for eligible developers will also be charged at a rate of 10%. Meanwhile, the External Content Links program follows a similar structure, maintaining the 10% for subscriptions and 20% for other transactions (again, with the first $1 million at 10% for qualified developers). Additionally, there’s a fee for “app download events” that occur within 24 hours of a click, which costs $2.85 for apps and $3.65 for games.

    Larger Changes on the Horizon

    Apart from the “lower fees,” a significant change is that Android will be more flexible regarding billing and distribution. Google’s developer guidelines now acknowledge that sales can happen via Google Play Billing or through approved alternatives as per its payment regulations. This is a key aspect of the broader “choice” solutions and settlement conditions.

    Reports also indicate that Google is looking to implement a “Registered App Stores” system, which will ease the process of installing competing Android app stores from the internet. They are also planning to expand the options available for developer billing systems.

    The timing of these changes is as crucial as the fee percentages. Major news sources report that the rollout tied to the settlement will begin first in the US, UK, and Europe, with wider global adaptations to follow later, depending on the specific program and the court’s decision.

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  • Epic Games CEO: Steam Rules Force 30% Fees to Valve

    Epic Games CEO: Steam Rules Force 30% Fees to Valve

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is facing a £656 million class-action lawsuit in the UK over Steam’s pricing and commission structure.
    2. Epic Games’ Ryan Fleury believes Valve’s 30% transaction fee is justified due to the valuable services Steam provides.
    3. Tim Sweeney argues that the issue goes beyond the fee; Steam’s rules prevent developers from directing players to other purchasing options.
    4. Sweeney compares Valve’s practices to past mobile platform policies by Apple and Google, which were deemed unacceptable by courts.
    5. He claims Valve is the only major PC digital storefront still enforcing such payment policies, likening it to paying a dealer for every gas fill-up after buying a car.

    Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has shared his views on the business practices of Steam as Valve faces significant challenges. Currently, Valve is dealing with a £656 million class-action lawsuit in the UK over issues related to Steam’s pricing and commission structure. Amidst this legal battle, Sweeney weighed in on discussions about Steam’s payment practices and whether developers have truly fair choices.

    Discussion on Pricing

    The topic was sparked when Ryan Fleury, a senior programmer at Epic Games, expressed his opinions on X regarding Valve’s 30% transaction fee. Fleury argued that Valve maintains a dominant position because Steam has invested years into providing valuable features and services, many of which are offered at no cost. He believes that the elevated prices are justified for the services provided. According to him, those who feel the fee is excessive should consider creating a cheaper alternative instead of seeking government intervention against Valve, as competition is already available.

    Response from Sweeney

    Sweeney countered this viewpoint, stating that the issue extends beyond the 30% fee; it also involves Steam’s payment rules. He pointed out that Steam prohibits games from directing players to different purchasing options. This requirement compels developers to utilize Steam’s payment system and, as a result, pay Valve a percentage each time a transaction occurs.

    Sweeney drew parallels to past practices on mobile platforms, where Apple and Google mandated that all in-app purchases be routed through their systems, taking a slice of each transaction. Courts eventually deemed this practice unacceptable, allowing developers on iOS and Android to guide users towards alternative payment methods, which means Apple and Google do not take a cut from those transactions.

    Valve’s Unique Position

    He contends that Valve is now the sole major digital storefront for PCs still upholding such policies. While he agrees that digital stores are entitled to charge a fee for selling a game, he believes it’s unreasonable to expect a share of all subsequent in-game purchases. He likened this scenario to buying a car and being required to pay the dealer 30% on every gas fill-up afterward.

    Tim Sweeney shared these insights via X.

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  • Epic Games Store February 2026 Free PC Game Leaked Early

    Epic Games Store February 2026 Free PC Game Leaked Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Game Announcement: Epic Games will reveal its latest free PC game, with a leak suggesting it will be “Botany Manor.”

    2. Claim Period: Players can claim “Botany Manor” for free from February 5 to February 12, 2026, and it will remain in their library forever once claimed.

    3. Game Setting: “Botany Manor” is a first-person puzzle game set in late 1800s England, where players assume the role of Arabella Greene, a retired botanist.

    4. Puzzle Mechanics: Gameplay involves solving puzzles related to plant care, requiring players to consider factors like lighting and temperature, while gathering clues throughout the manor.

    5. Narrative Style: The game’s story unfolds through exploration rather than cutscenes, revealing Arabella’s experiences and challenges as a woman in science during that era.

    Epic Games is about to reveal its latest free PC game today, but it seems like the secret might have already been leaked. A Reddit user named MeguminShiro, who has previously shared reliable leaks about Epic Games’ free titles, claims that the first free game for February 2026 is Botany Manor.

    Free Game Availability

    The leak indicates that players can start claiming the game on February 5, and it will be free until February 12. After that date, a new title will take its place. As always, once the game is claimed during this free period, it will remain in your library forever.

    Game Overview

    Botany Manor is a first-person puzzle game set in England in the late 1800s. You take on the role of Arabella Greene, a retired botanist residing in a vast countryside manor. Your primary objective is to complete her research by cultivating rare and unusual plants. To achieve this, you’ll need to explore the manor and its gardens while hunting for clues.

    Puzzle Mechanics

    The gameplay revolves around solving puzzles by figuring out what each plant requires to thrive. Some plants demand specific lighting, temperature, or environmental conditions, while others might need more creative approaches. Clues are scattered throughout the house, found in books, letters, notes, and old scientific tools.

    As you wander through the manor, you’ll uncover more about Arabella’s life and her career. The narrative unfolds through the environment instead of lengthy cutscenes, offering players small insights as they transition from one room to another. The game also sheds light on the challenges she faced as a woman in science back in that time.

    In addition, Epic Games users can also obtain Definitely Not Fried Chicken starting today. This title will be available until February 5, and if MeguminShiro’s leak is correct, it will be succeeded by Botany Manor.

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