The success of Epic Games' battle royaleFortnitehas led to plenty of high-profile events, including a recently announcedFortniteand Crystal Dynamics’Marvel’s Avengerscrossover. However,Fortnitehas also become a prominent platform for events such as concerts, and today it was announced that Japanese musician Kenshi Yonezu will be premiering a new video through a Party Royale on August 7.
Yonezu has had four songs reach the top 10 in the Japan Hot 100 charts. These include “Spirits of the Sea,” theme song for the animated movieChildren of the Sea, which peaked at number one in June 2019 according to Billboard. Epic Games says the artist will “take you on a sonic journey” through various songs onFortnite’s Main Stage, including singles off of his new albumStray Sheepthat is set to release August 5.
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This video premiere event will occur at three different times next Friday: 7:00 a.m. EDT, 1:00 p.m. EDT, and 7:00 p.m. EDT. Much like those who logged on to watch today’sDiplo Presents: Higher Ground concert got a free weapon wrap, anyone who playsFortnitebetween 8:00 p.m. EDT on August 6 and 8:00 p.m. EDT on August 7 will receive a free banner depicting a simplified, black-and-white version of theStray Sheepalbum cover.
By now,Fortnitehas an impressive pedigree of digital concerts, which have undoubtedly received extra clout because of how accessible they are amid gathering restrictions set in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. In April, Epic Games held aTravis Scott concert that brokeFortnite’s concurrent player record, gathering over 12.3 million viewers at once.
The popular battle royale has also served as a platform for trailers and films, including for content related to important social issues. Earlier this week,Fortnitehosted screenings of “We The People x More Than A Vote,“a conversation on racial inequality, voter suppression, and other related concerns prevalent in American life that was put together by Opus United. Players also received a free emote for attending.
Having live events, such as the upcoming Yonezu show, is a great way for Epic Games to keep attention focused on their game and give fans something to do while many are sitting at home. With major content releases likeFortnite’s anticipated car update being delayedfor an uncertain amount of time, it also helps to have these events as consolation.
Fortniteis available now on mobile, PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One. PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are in development.
