How many people play Fortnite? After bursting onto the scene in 2017, Fortnite has since become a worldwide phenomenon, amassing 650 million players across the globe as of November 2023, up from 400 million in May 2021. Why is Fortnite so popular? The reasons Fortnite has become such a global hit are clear. Not only is the game free to play, but it is also available on most gaming platforms. On top of this, Fortnite's most popular gameplay mode is the battle royale mode, in which up to 100 players fight it at once. This means that the re-playability of the game is infinite – each game is unique. Keeping players engaged with live services Fortnite Battle Royale is also a live service game, meaning that the game receives regular content updates to keep players engaged. Each season of the game roughly lasts 10 weeks and features events such as online concerts, and cosmetic changes. The game’s current iteration is called "鬼HUNTERS (Demon HUNTERS)" with a theme around yōkai, hunters and Japanese culture. Live service games are here to stay By offering cross-platform, multiplayer gaming with a live service schedule, Fortnite covers two of the biggest gaming industry trends, which the majority of the industry intend to follow. A 2023 of global gaming studios found that more than nine in ten studios were either working on or intending to release a live services title. With regular, cadenced, and themed updates to free-to-play games, studios motivate players to keep returning and, eventually, spend not only time but also money on the game. This seems to work for the parent company Epic Games – Fortnite was one of the most downloaded PlayStation F2P game in the EU and North America in 2024.

Having burst onto the scene in 2017, Fortnite has since become a worldwide phenomenon, amassing almost 250 million players across the globe as of March 2019. Having first been released in July 2017, the battle royale game took just two weeks to reach 10 million players, a figure which doubled to 20 million players after only six weeks. In less than a year, the game had acquired a staggering 125 million players.

Most Fortnite players spend less than 10 hours a week playing, with 36% playing less than 5 hours and 34% playing 6 to 10 hours. Meanwhile, 17% play 11 to 15 hours, 8% play 16 to 20 hours, and only 5% play more than 21 hours a week.

As of June 2020, battle royale star Fortnite had approximately 80.4 million monthly active users worldwide. This is up from 78.3 million MAU in September 2018. The cross-platform title which was released in July 2017 has been popular right from the start and reported 350 million registered users worldwide in 2020.

Fortnite's gender demographics show that 28.5% of players are female, while 71.5% are male, highlighting a predominantly male player base in the popular game.

Action role-playing game Black Myth: Wukong topped the 2024 list for peak number of concurrent players on the online gaming platform Steam, with 2.4 million peak concurrent players. The action-adventure game Palworld, which was released in January 2024, was ranked second. Is Steam keeping pace with the console giants? The fight for supremacy between PC and console gamers is an eternal one. However, it seems that Steam, the main online PC gaming platform, can still keep up with the console giants. In January 2023, Steam registered a record 33 million simultaneous users at peak time, impressive considering the figure stood at 27.4 million just two years before. One of the main advantages of Steam is the staggering library of games available to users, and it appears that players are not afraid of splashing the cash to play their favorite games.   Battle of the Battle Royale games While PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds reigns supreme in the Steam universe, it has stiff competition in the form of its battle royale brother, Fortnite. First released in July 2017, and not available on Steam, free-to-play Fortnite very quickly amassed millions of players and soon became a worldwide hit. Having scooped the award for Best Multiplayer Game at The Game Awards 2018, Epic Games’ smash hit shows no signs of slowing down. But with new players, such as Apex Legends, constantly entering the game, will Fortnite and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds be able to hold on to their loyal fan bases?

Apex Legends became an instant hit on its release in February 2019. Despite the growth in players slowing down in the months after the game's initial release, Apex Legends crossed 170 million players life-to-date as of October 2024. Apex Legends popular among eSports fans Apex Legends is a battle royale game which pits up to 20 three-person squads against each other in a fight to the death an island. While the game evidently has millions of devoted players, many more experience the game through some of their favorite eSports players. The Respawn Entertainment game is consistently one of the top games streamed on Twitch, with Apex Legends viewers watching in their thousands to see teams battle it out. In June 2024, approximately 7 million hours of Apex Legends were watched on major livestreaming platorms worldwide, making it one of the most popular games on Twitch and illustrating its appeal to both players and viewers alike. The rise of battle royale Battle royale games often include hundreds of players competing against each other at one time and this large-scale game mode has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the success of games such as Fortnite and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG). While many of the games are free to play, players can invest money on in-game purchases, which include upgrades to characters and players. Indeed, player spending in battle royale games often runs into the thousands and spending on PUBG Mobile even surpassed the 1.6 billion U.S. dollar mark in September 2020.

Battle royale game Fortnite has hosted several high-profile in-game events which have drawn millions of players worldwide. The Galactus event, which concluded Fortnite's Marvel-themed season 4 of chapter 2 in November 2020, drew 15.3 million concurrent players and still holds the record to date. In November 2024, Remix: The Finale event set the record for a Fortnite in-game concert, attracting 14.3 million players. Additionally, while not a concert or a special event, the launch of Fortnite OG, featuring the game's original map, in November 2023, was the most successful day for the battle royale title, drawing over 44 million players in a day.

Thanks to his second place finish at the Fortnite World Cup Finals in 2019, Jaden Ashman, also known as Wolfiez, is the highest earning Fortnite player from the United Kingdom as of January 2025. Ashman's earnings from the game reaching 1.37 million U.S. dollars, making him the only player based in the UK to hit the six-figure mark for career earnings.

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in April 2020 when many people were stuck at home, gamers turned to their favorite pastime to help them through lockdown. To capitalize on this captive audience, the popular battle royale game Fortnite collaborated with U.S. rapper Travis Scott to put on a live event within the game. This series of five events, named Fortnite: Astronomical, featured various songs from the artist, as well as a world preview song. During the first live show, a peak of 12.3 million players participated in the event, marking an all-time record for the game.

Kyle Giersdorf, more commonly known by his gamertag Bugha, was the most successful Fortnite player in the United States based on prize money earnings as of January 2025. Giersdorf's total career earnings through Fortnite, as of that month, exceeded 3.7 million U.S. dollars. Meanwhile, Harrison Chang aka psalm came in second place with total career earnings amounting to around 1.87 million U.S. dollars. eSports tournament prize pools Professional eSports players can earn up to millions of dollars in prize money at international competitions. As of the year-end 2024, the Dota 2 championships had amassed the highest cumulative prize pool from eSports games worldwide. The International, which is a Dota 2 tournament, was the most lucrative eSports tournament worldwide, with the winners of the 2021 iteration of The International walking away with approximately 40 million U.S. dollars. Popular battle royale games Battle royale games are multiplayer games which combine aspects of free-for-all or team-based shooters with components from survival games, such as having to scavenge for equipment within a hostile open-world environment. As of January 2025, Fortnite was the most popular PlayStation 5 game based on monthly active users worldwide, ranking above entries such as Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto V. When it came to the most streamed battle royale games worldwide Fortnite also took the top spot, surpassing Apex Legends and Call of Duty: Warzone, which racked up 4.7 million weekly viewer hours in March 2025.

First released at the start of 2017, PUBG: Battlegrounds (previously known as PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds) is one of the most popular games on Steam and had 861,598 peak concurrent players in the last recorded month, April 2025. The highest number of concurrent players was recorded in January 2018 at 3.24 million. One of the biggest games on Steam PUBG gained a devoted legion of fans in a short space of time after its release, and cumulative unit sales of the game hit 75 million in December 2021. The game has also been critically acclaimed — it won the Best Multiplayer Game at The Game Awards in 2017 and its free-to-play mobile version for Android and iOS, released in 2018, was nominated for Best Mobile Game at The 2018 Game Awards. This critical success has also translated into commercial success, as the game generated millions of U.S. dollars of revenue, most successfully in the United States. On January 12, 2022, the game has become free to play. Battle of the Battle Royale games PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds is an online battle royale game in which up to 100 hundred players battle it out until there is only one player or one team left standing. This format of game has become very popular in recent years. While PUBG has a strong following, especially on Steam, it has come under pressure from rival battle royale game, Fortnite. First released just several months after PUBG, Fortnite has since become a cultural phenomenon, amassing 500 million registered users in just six years. As of 2025, both PUB and Fortnite are still going strong with their loyal audiences.

First released in 2017 and developed by Epic Games, Fortnite is an online battle royal video game with the objective of being the last survivor and eliminating other opposing players. Following the success of the game, a mobile version was released for Android and iOS the following year. Thanks to in-app purchases and micro-transactions, the app generated revenue of **** million U.S. dollars through player spending worldwide in April 2020. This sharp growth in players is no doubt in part due to the coronavirus pandemic, which spread across the world at the beginning of 2020 and led to many people turning to gaming and other forms of indoor entertainment during periods of lockdown.

According to a February 2020 survey of Fortnite gamers in the United States, respondents had spent an average of ****** U.S. dollars on in-game purchases. Overall, about ** percent of responding Fortnite audiences had spent money on the free-to-play title.

Battle Arena Games Market Outlook

The global battle arena games market size was valued at approximately USD 15 billion in 2023, and it is projected to reach a staggering USD 35 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% during the forecast period. This remarkable growth can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing adoption of advanced gaming technologies, the rising popularity of esports, and the growing number of gamers worldwide.

The growth of the battle arena games market is driven primarily by the rising popularity of esports. The esports industry has experienced exponential growth in recent years, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch competitive gaming events. This surge in interest has led to increased investments in esports tournaments and leagues, further boosting the demand for battle arena games. Additionally, the increasing prize pools and sponsorships have attracted more professional gamers into the industry, thereby driving the market growth.

Another significant growth factor is the rapid technological advancements in the gaming industry. The introduction of high-definition graphics, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) has revolutionized the gaming experience, making it more immersive and engaging. These advancements have led to the development of more sophisticated battle arena games that offer a realistic gaming experience, thereby attracting a larger audience. Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in games has enhanced the gameplay by providing a more challenging and interactive environment for gamers.

The proliferation of mobile gaming is also a major driver of the battle arena games market. With the increasing penetration of smartphones and the availability of high-speed internet, mobile gaming has become more accessible to a wider audience. Mobile battle arena games, in particular, have gained immense popularity due to their convenience and ease of play. Moreover, the rise of cloud gaming services has further boosted the accessibility of these games, allowing players to stream and play games on various devices without the need for high-end hardware.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region dominates the battle arena games market, accounting for the largest share in terms of revenue. The region's dominance can be attributed to the high number of gamers, the presence of leading gaming companies, and the growing popularity of esports. Countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan are major contributors to the market growth due to their strong gaming culture and advanced gaming infrastructure. Additionally, the region's large population and increasing disposable income have further fueled the demand for battle arena games.

Game Type Analysis

The battle arena games market can be segmented by game type into Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) and Battle Royale games. MOBA games are characterized by their strategic gameplay, where players control a single character in one of two teams. These games require teamwork and strategy to destroy the enemy's base while defending their own. MOBA games like League of Legends and Dota 2 have garnered a massive following, with dedicated player bases and professional esports leagues. The complexity and depth of MOBA games have made them a favorite among hardcore gamers, contributing significantly to the market's revenue.

On the other hand, Battle Royale games have gained tremendous popularity in recent years. These games typically involve a large number of players who are dropped into a game map and must fight to be the last person standing. The appeal of Battle Royale games lies in their fast-paced and unpredictable gameplay, which offers a thrilling experience for players. Games like Fortnite and PUBG have become cultural phenomena, attracting millions of players worldwide. The success of these games can be attributed to their innovative gameplay mechanics, frequent content updates, and strong community engagement.

The MOBA and Battle Royale segments cater to different types of gamers, each with its unique preferences and play styles. While MOBA games are favored by players who enjoy strategic and team-based gameplay, Battle Royale games attract those who prefer solo play and high-intensity action. Both segments have their dedicated fan bases, and the continuous development and introduction of new features and content in these games are expected to drive their growth in the coming years.

Furthermore, the increasing popular

In November 2023, battle royale title Fortnite launched the OG season, taking players back to the original Chapter 1 map and re-introducing various in-game items from the earliest seasons of the game. The nostalgia was strong in this one, and Fortnite players on Xbox and PlayStation consoles spent nearly 1.48 billion hours on the online title in November 2023, up by 146 percent from the hours spent on Fortnite in the preceding month.

Online Game Platforms Market Outlook

The global online game platforms market size is poised to grow significantly, reaching approximately USD 210 billion by 2032 from USD 78 billion in 2023, reflecting a robust CAGR of 10.9%. The key growth factors driving this market include technological advancements, the proliferation of high-speed internet, and the increasing adoption of smartphones and gaming consoles.

One of the primary growth factors for the online gaming platform market is the continuous evolution of technology, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR). These advancements have not only enhanced the gaming experience but have also expanded the scope and complexity of games, making them more engaging and immersive. As a result, players are increasingly willing to invest time and money into these platforms, driving market growth further.

Another significant growth factor is the widespread adoption of high-speed internet globally. Improved internet infrastructure has made online gaming more accessible to a broader audience. Gamers can now participate in multiplayer games, stream content, and download large game files with ease, fostering the growth of the online gaming community. This trend is particularly noticeable in emerging markets where internet penetration is rapidly increasing, leading to a surge in the number of online gamers.

The increasing adoption of smartphones and gaming consoles is also a crucial driver for market growth. Mobile gaming, in particular, has seen exponential growth due to the convenience and accessibility it offers. The rising popularity of gaming consoles with advanced features and capabilities has further fueled market expansion. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has played a role in accelerating this growth, as more people turned to online gaming as a form of entertainment during lockdowns and social distancing measures.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the online game platforms market, driven by a large and growing population of gamers, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. The region's robust technological infrastructure, coupled with high internet penetration rates, positions it as a lucrative market for online gaming platforms. North America and Europe are also significant markets, with a strong presence of major gaming companies and a high level of disposable income among consumers.

Game Type Analysis

The online game platforms market can be segmented by game type, which includes action, adventure, role-playing, simulation, strategy, sports, and others. Action games are one of the most popular segments, characterized by fast-paced gameplay that requires quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination. These games often feature combat, shooting, and physical challenges, making them highly engaging and appealing to a broad audience. The popularity of action games is further boosted by the success of franchises like Call of Duty and Fortnite, which attract millions of players worldwide.

Adventure games, on the other hand, offer players a narrative-driven experience, focusing on exploration, puzzle-solving, and interaction with in-game characters. This segment has seen substantial growth due to the increasing demand for games with rich storytelling and immersive environments. Titles like The Legend of Zelda and Uncharted have set high standards in this genre, attracting a dedicated fan base and driving market growth.

Role-playing games (RPGs) have also gained significant traction in the online game platforms market. RPGs allow players to control a character or group of characters and immerse themselves in a fictional world. These games often feature complex storylines, character development, and strategic combat, which appeal to gamers who enjoy long-term engagement and in-depth gameplay. Popular RPGs like The Witcher and Final Fantasy have contributed to the growth of this segment.

Simulation games, which replicate real-world activities and scenarios, have a unique appeal in the online gaming market. These games range from life simulations like The Sims to flight simulators and farming simulations. The versatility and educational value of simulation games have broadened their appeal, attracting a diverse audience. The continuous development of more realistic and detailed simulation games is expected to drive growth in this segment.

Strategy games require players to plan and execute tactic

According to a February 2020 survey of Fortnite gamers in the United States, ** percent of respondents played Fortnite roughly *** to *** hours per week, while **** percent admitted to playing for ** weekly hours or more.

Mobile Shooter Market Outlook

The global mobile shooter market size was valued at approximately USD 8.5 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 24.3 billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.5%. This significant growth can be attributed to several factors, including advancements in mobile technology, increasing internet penetration, and the rising popularity of mobile games among various age groups.

One of the primary growth factors driving the mobile shooter market is the continuous evolution and improvement of mobile hardware. Modern smartphones come equipped with powerful processors, high-resolution displays, and advanced graphics capabilities, which enhance the gaming experience and make mobile shooter games more appealing. These technological advancements allow for more complex and visually stunning games, which attract a larger audience and drive market growth.

Additionally, the increase in internet penetration and the widespread availability of high-speed mobile networks, such as 4G and the emerging 5G technology, have significantly contributed to the growth of the mobile shooter market. High-speed internet enables seamless online multiplayer experiences, which are a crucial aspect of many mobile shooter games. The ability to play games online with friends and competitors from around the world adds to the appeal and popularity of these games, further boosting market growth.

Another key growth factor is the changing demographics and preferences of gamers. The mobile gaming market is no longer limited to a younger audience; it now includes a diverse range of age groups, including adults who grew up playing video games and continue to enjoy them. The convenience of mobile gaming, which allows people to play anytime and anywhere, has also played a significant role in attracting a broader audience. This expanding demographic base is driving the demand for mobile shooter games and contributing to the overall market growth.

The Battle Royale Game genre has become a significant driver of growth within the mobile shooter market. This genre, known for its intense, last-man-standing gameplay, has captivated a global audience, offering both competitive and casual players an engaging experience. The success of games like PUBG Mobile and Fortnite in this category is a testament to the genre's widespread appeal. These games provide players with dynamic environments and strategic challenges, fostering a sense of community and competition. The social and interactive elements of Battle Royale Games, such as teaming up with friends or competing against players worldwide, have further contributed to their popularity and market expansion.

From a regional outlook, the Asia Pacific region holds a dominant position in the mobile shooter market, driven by countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea, where mobile gaming is highly popular. North America and Europe also represent significant markets due to their well-established gaming industries and high consumer spending on digital entertainment. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America regions are expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years, fueled by increasing smartphone adoption and improved internet infrastructure.

Game Type Analysis

The mobile shooter market can be segmented by game type into First-Person Shooter (FPS), Third-Person Shooter (TPS), Battle Royale, Tactical Shooter, and others. Each game type offers unique gameplay mechanics and appeals to different segments of the gaming community. The First-Person Shooter (FPS) segment is particularly popular due to its immersive gameplay experience, where players view the action through the eyes of the protagonist. FPS games like Call of Duty: Mobile and PUBG Mobile have garnered massive followings and continue to dominate the market. The realistic graphics and engaging gameplay of FPS games contribute significantly to the market's overall growth.

The Third-Person Shooter (TPS) segment also holds a substantial market share. These games offer a broader field of view and allow players to see their avatars, which can enhance the gameplay experience for some users. TPS games like Fortnite and Garena Free Fire have become immensely popular, especially among younger gamers. The success of these games has led to increased investment in developing high-quality TPS games, which further drives market growth.

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Michał Kamiński, playing under the ID Kami, was the highest-earning Fortnite player in Poland as of January 2025. Kamiński is the leading Fortnite player in the entire country. Between 2018 and 2025, the e-sports player accumulated over *** million U.S. dollars in prize money earnings.