It looks like the gaming industry is never done with the layoffs, as Epic Games has now entered the list, laying off more than 1,000 employees.

In the note sent to the employees, CEO Tim Sweeney wrote, "The downturn in Fortnite engagement that started in 2025 means we're spending significantly more than we're making, and we have to make major cuts to keep the company funded."

He further elaborated on the lump sum amount the company would save, stating, "This layoff, together with over $500 million of identified cost savings in contracting, marketing, and closing some open roles, puts us in a more stable place."

Tim also mentioned that the impacted employees will get a severance package, including four months of base pay (with more based on tenure).

"We’re also extending Epic-paid healthcare coverage. For example, in the U.S., they’ll receive paid coverage for 6 months. We’ll also accelerate their stock options vesting through January 2027 and extend equity exercise options for up to two years."

This news has caused a ruckus among players, with some former pro Fortnite players sharing their opinions about Epic Games' decision.

Epic Games' Announcement Breeds Tension

Two major former professional Fortnite players have come up with their opinions regarding the layoffs. Both were left disappointed due to the decision.

Starting with Stable Ronaldo, he stated, "Epic Games and Fortnite is going to completely d-e off when GTA 6 drops. You can say I’m a hater but every day they’re striving into a sh--tier direction and losing the core community of what made Fortnite special to begin with. Stop trying to be a new Roblox. It’s Sad."

Another gamer, Lacy, also had a bitter reaction following the layoffs, stating, "What happened to the game i once loved. Spending millions of dollars on pointless collabs & map makers instead of just making the game better. Stop trying to be the new Roblox and stick to just being Fortnite, this is actually the end."

The gamers are seen comparing Fortnite to Roblox, indicating that Epic Games is trying to make Fortnite more of a platform where users create, build, and publish custom maps and game modes, rather than just letting it be a game for everyone to enjoy.

This argument stems from Epic Games' heavily investing in Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN) and Creative Mode tools over the past few years.

Amid the chaos, Epic Games' main focus is on delivering fresh Fortnite content while gradually transitioning from Unreal Engine 5 to Unreal Engine 6.

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Written by

Dhruv Singh

Edited by

Shraabona Sengupta