Why Does Epic Giveaway Games?

Do you remember the first time you got your hands on your very first gaming rig? Chances are, the first thing you installed was Google Chrome, updated your graphics drivers, and then installed Steam. As a avid gamer, it's almost second nature to install that launcher. But then, there's Epic Games. You know, the company responsible for Fortnite, Unreal Engine, and is well known for giving away games for free. But why would they do that? Isn't that bad for business? Let's dive into the history of Epic Games to understand their strategy.

A Brief History of Epic Games

Epic Games was founded in 1991 as Potomac Computer Systems by a 21-year-old college student named Tim Sweeney. However, the name was short-lived as it was later changed to Epic Mega Games. The company gained recognition after developing a text-based game called ZZT. In 1998, they released Unreal, a first-person shooter known for its advanced graphics, setting the stage for the company's future success. In 1999, they simplified their name to Epic Games and continued to develop games and engines that pushed boundaries in the gaming industry.

The Success of Fortnite

In 2017, Epic Games released Fortnite, powered by the new Unreal Engine. Initially a PVE game, it quickly turned into a battle royale success. The game was available for free on Xbox and Playstation, but for PC, players had to download a new launcher. This decision sparked questions about Epic's strategy. From a business standpoint, wouldn't it make sense to release the game on a launcher with the most exposure? However, Epic had its sights set on establishing its own store and competing with the top dogs in the industry.

The Strategy Behind Free Game Giveaways

Epic Games began giving away free games, including AAA titles that normally sold for $50 to $60. This generous gesture triggered a dopamine spike in gamers' brains, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation. As a result, more and more people flocked to the Epic Games store to claim their free games. This strategy not only built a positive reputation for Epic Games but also increased traffic and user engagement on their platform. However, this approach does come with its challenges. Epic Games has to settle contracts with publishers to offer their games for free, which can be costly. Without additional community features like those found on Steam, Epic Games may continue to be known primarily as a launcher that gives away games for free.

In conclusion, Epic Games' approach to game distribution and promotion may seem unorthodox, but it has undeniably garnered attention and success. Whether you're a fan of their strategy or not, there's no denying the impact Epic Games has had on the gaming industry.