Fortnite is probably the only game that’s seen more dance-offs than a 90’s disco and more collaborations than a pop star on a world tour. However, as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, at least for some in Fortnite’s capable leadership.
The man behind Fortnite, Donald Mustard, has decided to hang up his creative boots and retire from Epic Games. The former chief creative officer of Epic Games took to Twitter to announce the disheartening news in a long farewell message, stating:
“After an incredible adventure, I will be retiring from my role as Chief Creative Officer at Epic this month…
“From the ambitious Advent Rising, to the start of ChAIR where we created Undertow, Shadow Complex, and the Infinity Blade trilogy, to the honor of our tiny team becoming part of Epic, each new chapter allowed me to accomplish something new and original. I am especially proud of the opportunity I’ve had to help create and shape Fortnite.”
“I am humbled to have been a part of the team that every day tries to bring ‘joy and delight’ to the Fortnite community! We love watching you experience every moment – leaping from the Battle Bus for the very first time, seeing the rocket crack open the sky, dancing with friends after a Victory Royale, being sucked into a black hole or being washed out to sea as The Island flipped over – and on and on! I can’t wait to now share in the future of Fortnite as a player alongside all of you! The teams are in the best hands and they are working on huge, jaw dropping, amazing things!!!”
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney tipped his hat to Mustard, thanking him for the “amazing times and accomplishments. Mustard, who’s been in the gaming business for an incredible 25 years, has been the creative genius behind Fortnite’s meteoric rise. From the moment players leaped off the Battle Bus for the first time to witnessing the sky crack open, Mustard has been the man behind it all.
While Mustard’s departure might seem like a shock, it’s important to remember that change can be a good thing. Remember when Fortnite introduced that black hole event and players lost their minds? That was a game-changer (literally), and it turned out pretty darn epic (pun intended). So, who knows? This could be the dawn of a new era for Fortnite.
Mustard’s next move is to spend some quality time with his family. And who can blame him? After 25 years of game development, a little R&R is well deserved. The question still remains: who’s going to fill Mustard’s shoes? Those are some big shoes to fill, considering the man’s legacy – only time will tell.
In the meantime, Fortnite fans, keep your eyes peeled. With Chapter 5 on the horizon and rumors of an open-world game mode, the future looks bright. As for Donald Mustard? Here’s to hoping he enjoys his Victory Royales from the comfort of his couch.
