Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has dismissed claims that the company is frustrated with Disney over delays in their joint Fortnite project. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that some Epic executives were unhappy with Disney’s slow decision-making process. But Sweeney has called that claim “BS,” saying the collaboration has been smooth and fast-paced.
Sweeney says Disney partnership is faster than most
Responding on social media, Sweeney denied the report’s anonymous quotes.
“The anonymous quote is BS,” Sweeney wrote. “The speed of Disney and Epic collaborations like Darth Vader has been awesome and is around 10x the ordinary speed of media company dealings in this business.”
Sweeney also claimed that Epic had already shared a positive statement with the journalist — but it was not included in the article.
New Disney-Fortnite mode in the works
The WSJ report had revealed new details about the secretive Disney mode planned for Fortnite. The project was announced after Disney invested $1.5 billion in Epic Games in early 2024. The new mode is expected to launch no earlier than fall 2026.
Leaked concept art suggests the new experience will look like a virtual Disneyland with hubs dedicated to different Disney brands. However, exact gameplay details are still unclear.
Also Read: Google reveals next-gen Genie 3 that can create 3D games with just a single line of prompt
Who owns the moves?
The report also mentioned internal discussions at Disney about user-generated content in the game — especially dances featuring Disney characters. Legal questions have been raised over who would own such fan-created material.
The project is reportedly being led from Disney’s side by Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney parks and resorts. According to the WSJ, D’Amaro has spent time with Sweeney, even going on hikes with him to discuss the vision.
Deepening ties between Epic and Disney
Epic Games and Disney have built a strong relationship in recent years. Fortnite has already featured characters and content from Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and Disney Animation. Some of Fortnite’s most memorable seasons have been tied to Disney properties.
Recently, the two companies even tested an AI-powered Darth Vader in Fortnite. Players could speak with him using generative voice technology. The launch was rocky — fans quickly made Vader say things he wasn’t supposed to — but Epic fixed it fast. Over 10 million players eventually chatted with the Sith Lord.
Also Read: How to preload Battlefield 6’s open beta: Dates, maps, and what to expect
Fortnite’s new season is here
This week, Fortnite kicks off a new season filled with mutant bugs taking over the Island. Characters from the Halo universe are joining the action as well. Meanwhile, in the OG mode, Fortnite rewinds to the popular Season 5 era. Players expect the return of Kevin the Cube — though Epic may be remixing the storyline for some unexpected twists.
FAQs
What is the Disney-Fortnite project?
It’s a new mode being developed inside Fortnite, backed by Disney’s $1.5 billion investment in Epic Games. It’s planned as a virtual world featuring Disney-themed hubs.
When will the Disney mode launch in Fortnite?
According to reports, the mode is expected to launch no earlier than fall 2026.
Did Epic Games complain about Disney?
No. Tim Sweeney denied the claim, calling it false and praising Disney’s collaboration speed.
Who is leading the Disney side of the project?
Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney parks and resorts, is reportedly overseeing the project.
What happened with AI Darth Vader in Fortnite?
Players used generative AI to talk to Darth Vader, but the feature had to be quickly patched due to inappropriate responses. It was later fixed and became a hit.
