Lego and Fortnite team up for a Kids Metaverse
Lego and Fortnite yesterday announced a partnership to create a Kids Metaverse based on the iconic Lego Brand. Competing with Minecraft and Roblox, the new enterprise will be developed by Fortnite owner Epic Games. The companies plan to create a family-friendly Metaverse and virtual space.
“The Lego Group and Epic Games will combine their extensive experience to ensure that this next iteration of the internet is designed from the outset with the wellbeing of kids in mind.”
The move comes as Epic Games release Unreal Engine 5 and the launch of Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga as the toy company increasingly positions itself in the video games market.
“We are excited to come together to build a space in the metaverse that’s fun, entertaining, and made for kids and families.”
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney
The announcement also came with a mission statement about protecting children in the Metaverse. Stating that the Lego/Fortnite Metaverse will protect children’s right to play, safeguard their privacy and empower children and adults with digital tools. This comes at a time when existing Metaverse platforms have faced criticism over safety.
Roblox, which recently went public, became one of the largest video game companies in the world, and Minecraft (owned by Microsoft) operate a significant slice of the Kids Metaverse market. Epic, by partnering with an established brand like Lego, clearly see the potential to disrupt the established market leaders with their new concept of a Child-Friendly Metaverse.
