The Game Business Show Epic's Tim Sweeney: "We can build an economy that's bigger and better than the one in Roblox"
Jun 5, 2025
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games and visionary behind Fortnite, dives into the future of gaming and AI. He discusses the competitive edge of the Epic Games Store against giants like Steam. Sweeney emphasizes ethical data usage for AI training and the potential for monetization strategies in building player trust. The conversation also touches on Fortnite's comeback on iOS and its role in fostering community engagement. Additionally, he shares insights on empowering smaller dev teams and the evolving landscape of user-generated content.
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Ethical AI Data Usage
- AI in gaming toolsets should strictly use data with creators' consent to maintain ethical standards.
- Using properly licensed data enables AI to enhance creative productivity without legal or moral issues.
Fortnite vs Roblox Audiences
- Roblox and Fortnite serve different audiences with unique expectations and game styles.
- Both platforms provide massive audiences rivaling any console, creating varied opportunities for creators.
Player-First Monetization Model
- Epic rejects pay-to-win and loot box monetization, favoring player-friendly economies with interoperable items.
- This approach builds trust, rewards creators better, and avoids monetization pitfalls seen in other platforms.