Epic Games CEO on Fortnite and Blockchain: A Future Possibility?

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney recently addressed the potential use of blockchain in Fortnite, suggesting that while it may be considered in the future, crypto and NFTs will not be part of the game.

Sweeney responded to a query from Game Fund Partners co-founder Jonah Blake about the use of blockchain in Fortnite. He indicated that while blockchain might be used eventually, it won’t involve crypto or NFTs. Sweeney finds the concept of blockchain fascinating, particularly its potential as a decentralized solution for handling distributed transactions in an open ecosystem.

Blockchain as a Database Alternative

Sweeney expressed interest in the “underlying idea” of blockchain technology, calling it “awesome”. He envisions blockchain as a decentralized database alternative. This is similar to how Pirate Nation, a crypto role-playing game, uses multiple blockchains for transactions. Sweeney views blockchain not just as a financial tool but as a technology that could evolve how data is managed and processed in gaming.

Sweeney stated in a recent interview that he is more interested in the technology aspects of blockchain than in its financial uses. He emphasized the importance of cryptographic consensus protocols and zero-knowledge proofs as useful elements that may improve several systems. For Sweeney, the technical potential of blockchain outweighs its potential financial application.

Open Metaverse Vision

Strongly supporting an open metaverse that prioritizes decentralization and interoperability in virtual environments is Sweeney. In line with his opinions expressed in 2021 when he disapproved of Facebook's rebranding as Meta, he feels that no one business should be in charge of the metaverse. But he also issued a warning, describing the idea of effortlessly transferring materials between games as impossible and possibly demeaning to the creators of AAA games of excellent quality—such as those who design iconic skins like the renegade raider or expansive virtual worlds.

Instead of focusing on fantastical ideas, Sweeney advocates for a practical approach to interoperability within the metaverse. He supports efforts to establish open standards and protocols that allow different games and digital experiences to interact more realistically. The Metaverse Standards Forum, which Epic Games is involved with, aims to develop these technical standards to foster better interoperability.

Sweeney acknowledged that the association of blockchain with crypto has affected its reputation. He believes that blockchain could have benefited from a longer period of development in niche communities before becoming a financial instrument. The technology’s image has been tarnished by speculation, scams, and regulatory issues.

Looking Forward

Despite these challenges, Sweeney remains optimistic about blockchain’s future. He believes that the technology will ultimately prove its value. However, he advises caution due to the current chaotic state of the blockchain space, suggesting that it is still a "Wild West" environment.