Disney to acquire US$1.5 billion stake in Epic Games

The Walt Disney Company will invest US$1.5 billion to acquire an equity stake in Epic Games as it expands into the gaming market with new games and an entertainment universe in what will be a multiyear project.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals according to a statement by Epic Games.

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In fact, the investment is part of a collaboration between Disney and Epic Games to create an all-new, open, persistent and social universe that aims to bring Disney stories and experiences to life while interoperating with Fortnite and its active players and creators.

Epic Games said that the new persistent universe will offer a multitude of opportunities for consumers to play, watch, shop and engage with content, characters and stories from franchises such as Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and Avatar to name a few.

Powered by Unreal Engine, players, gamers and fans will be able to create their own stories and experiences, share content with one another while also expressing their fandom in a distinctly Disney way.

“Our exciting new relationship with Epic Games will bring together Disney’s beloved brands and franchises with the hugely popular Fortnite in a transformational new games and entertainment universe,” said Robert A. Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company.

“This marks Disney’s biggest entry ever into the world of games and offers significant opportunities for growth and expansion. We can’t wait for fans to experience the Disney stories and worlds they love in groundbreaking new ways,” he further added.

The collaboration is not the first time both companies have worked together as Disney and Epic games have engaged players through Fortnite content integrations, seasons collaborations, in-game activations and live events through Marvel Nexus War with Galactus.

“Disney was one of the first companies to believe in the potential of bringing their worlds together with ours in Fortnite, and they use Unreal Engine across their portfolio,” said Tim Sweeney, CEO and founder, Epic Games.

“Now we’re collaborating on something entirely new to build a persistent, open and interoperable ecosystem that will bring together the Disney and Fortnite communities,” he added.

As more and more brands target the gaming market, Fortnite recently collaborated with BBDO Singapore and MOH holdings on "The Power of Care" campaign where instead of killing, players are healing others instead.

The campaign is aimed at connecting individuals on a deeply personal level to inspire a newfound appreciation for the healthcare profession as a career choice.

As part of the integrated campaign, players must travel a custom map of Singapore, avoiding hazards and healing each other to complete the course.

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