Creators working with the new Unreal Editor for Fortnite will be compensated for their unique creations, but it’s certainly less straightforward than Support-A-Creator.
As we previously reported, Epic Games has just launched the Unreal Editor for Fortnite. This new tool enables creators to use the power of the Unreal Engine to create custom experiences within the game. So far, this has resulted in some pretty impressive screen captures of what eager developers have already created.
However, what has gone somewhat less noticed is that these creators now have the opportunity to earn cash within the Fortnite ecosystem with the simultaneous launch of Creator Economy 2.0. Earning that money, however, may not be as simple as one would think.
What is Creator Economy 2.0?
Epic has altered the way creators will get paid using a somewhat convoluted method called “Engagement Payouts,” according to a post on the Fortnite Creator website. Previously, Epic employed a program called Support-A-Creator, which required users to enter a creator code when purchasing items at the shop. When that occurred, the influencer or creator whose code was used got 5% of that sale within the store.
The SAC method leads to the downside of users needing to remember the code for their favorite creators and to remember to use it. According to Epic,
“Epic’s existing Support-A-Creator program that underpinned Creator Economy 1.0 remains, but is returning to its roots as an affiliate marketing program for streamers and social media content creators. We’ve removed the Support-A-Creator device within Fortnite islands to keep gameplay focused on fun. Players can now show support for their favorite creators’ islands simply by playing them. “
Existing creators with published islands who sign up by April 21, 2023, will be paid retroactively for engagement starting March 1, 2023.
How Does Creator Economy 2.0 Work?
Epic will place 40% of net revenue from the Fortnite Item Shop into an “Engagement Pool.” Each month, payments will be made from this pool to publishers of all eligible islands, including Epic’s own islands, like Battle Royale. Payments will be based on two key factors.
- Player Popularity: Islands that attract new players and re-engage lapsed players or people who haven’t played for a set amount of time.
- Player Retention: Islands where players return every day or weekly.
So, while 40% of revenue has been thrown around — that’s not exactly the whole story. Instead, eligible creators will all get a part of the Engagement Payout Pool based on percentages and statistical performance rather than getting directly compensated for their islands. The Engagement Payout Pool will be 40% of real money spent on Fortnite, V-bucks purchases, Fortnite Crew subscriptions, starter packs, cosmetics, and Quest Packs.
That being said, the amount of revenue aspiring developers could have a part of is pretty tremendous, with the game earning billions of dollars in revenue each year. What is not so certain, at least yet, is what will happen to the mid-tier or lesser-known creators whose islands may not see much traffic.
Who Gets Paid with Creator Economy 2.0?
The following criteria must be met for individuals and companies to get payouts as part of Creator Economy 2.0:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Fortnite account must be at least 90 days old
Creators that would like to sign up for the program can do so in the new Epic Creator Portal, where they can also connect with the community and promote their brands. Epic is currently working on a program to enable younger creators under the age of 18 to also monetize their work.
Ultimately, it’s somewhat unclear how much people will get paid for their creations, as it’s not a 1:1 scenario of “sell this item, make this percentage.” That being said, it is a way for creators that promote the overall health and player base in Fortnite to earn some of the profits the company has been able to amass from their flagship title.
If you have a super popular Island that has longevity and can even bring new players to the game, chances are you’ll get a piece of the pie. If you have a niche but a dedicated community, it might be harder for you to earn meaningful money. Only time will tell, however, if we get any Unreal Editor for Fortnite millionaire developers.
For more news like this, see our News Section.
