Home / Business and Economy / Epic Games Axes Over 1,000 Jobs Amidst Fortnite Downturn
Epic Games Axes Over 1,000 Jobs Amidst Fortnite Downturn
24 Mar
Summary
- Epic Games laid off more than 1,000 employees recently.
- CEO cited a downturn in Fortnite engagement for the decision.
- V-Bucks prices increased in March 2026 to help bills.

Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite, confirmed on March 24, 2026, that it is laying off over 1,000 employees. CEO Tim Sweeney communicated this difficult news in a memo to staff, expressing regret and stating, "I'm sorry we're here again."
The primary driver for these layoffs is a noted "downturn in Fortnite engagement," leading to the company spending "significantly more" than its revenue. Sweeney also pointed to broader economic factors impacting the gaming industry, such as slower growth and weaker console adoption, as contributing influences.
This decision comes shortly after Epic Games announced an increase in the price of Fortnite's V-Bucks, a change that became effective on March 19, 2026. The company stated this adjustment was necessary to "help pay the bills" as the cost of operating Fortnite has risen substantially.




