In this video, Mark explores the constant changes and updates in Fortnite, specifically how the game uses FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) to keep players engaged and spending money. Mark describes how, during the recent "Fortnite end" event, all game modes were disabled and players were taken to an ominous waiting room above a black void. In a cutscene, the entire game world blipped out of existence, leading to a mini-game collection about collecting "zero point" blobs. After this, Brie Larsen appeared and used sci-fi magic to stitch together chunks of an entirely new world, with a brand new map to play in.
Mark explains that Fortnite has been destroyed and remade twice already, with Epic constantly adding new content and removing other stuff. The map itself has also morphed and changed over time, with themed weeks and limited-time events like movie tie-ins, digital concerts, and entire modes. Mark notes that Fortnite's core game mechanic has remained the same since 2017: 100 people drop onto an island, scavenge weapons and items, and fight to be the last one standing.
Mark argues that Fortnite's constant changes have made it one of the most enjoyable and exciting games to play, with new weapons, costumes, areas, boss fights, and game mechanics constantly being added. However, he also acknowledges that this constant change can be overwhelming for new players, and that Epic's strategy of removing content over time has made the game more approachable.
Mark then discusses how Fortnite uses FOMO to keep players engaged and spending money. He notes that live service games like Fortnite use daily rewards, weekly quests, seasons, battle passes, time-limited events, and streaks to keep players invested. Mark argues that this weaponized FOMO can lead to a crummy experience for some players, who feel trapped by these content treadmills.
Mark also acknowledges that FOMO is more effective on children and young adults, a group that Fortnite tries to court. He notes that some players may find the psychological tug of FOMO too powerful to ignore, leading to gaming addiction or gaming disorder.
However, Mark argues that there are things players can do to fight back against FOMO. For example, intentionally missing out on something can break the spell of FOMO in the future. The most important thing, he says, is to be aware of these tactics and to understand how companies can exploit them.
Overall, Mark praises Fortnite for its exciting and constantly changing gameplay, but also acknowledges the potential downsides of the game's use of FOMO. He encourages players to be aware of these tactics and to make informed decisions about how they engage with live service games like Fortnite.
Commentary:
Mark's video provides a comprehensive overview of Fortnite's constant changes and updates, as well as the game's use of FOMO to keep players engaged. He presents a balanced view of the game, acknowledging both its strengths and weaknesses. Mark's discussion of FOMO is particularly insightful, as he explains how this psychological trick can be used to keep players invested in live service games. Overall, Mark's video is informative and thought-provoking, and provides valuable insights into the world of live service games.
