Fortnite, Epic Games' virtual juggernaut, has become an unexpected platform for historical education. The game, known for its massive battle royale tournaments, entertaining emotes, and crossover character skins, most recently including the likes of Jujutsu Kaisen and even Futurama, is preparing to host a Holocaust museum. This initiative underscores the game's continuing evolution into a multifaceted platform not just for entertainment but for learning and awareness as well.
This isn't Fortnite's first dance with history. The game previously paid tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., in a collaboration with the DuSable Museum of African American History and the Estate of Martin Luther King Jr.
This interactive experience, March Through Time, gave players the chance to walk through a vivid representation of the civil rights leader's life and the larger context of racial discrimination he combatted. While some deem this integration of history and gaming a tad jarring, it was evident that Epic Games recognized the unique outreach potential Fortnite offered. Now, another developer is looking to harness this power for good.
Luc Bernard, the visionary behind the idea for the Holocaust museum and the director of The Light in the Darkness, is emphasizing the crucial role games can play in education. As Bernard notes, an alarming 80% of people have never set foot in a Holocaust museum. This virtual representation is not only a bridge to those unable to visit these museums but also a means of reaching Fortnite's vast younger audience, many of whom may be unaware of the Holocaust's grim realities. Given Fortnite's staggering 400 million+ players, the museum's potential reach is unparalleled.


