Fortnite Olympic Event Faces Fan Backlash

Fans express strong disapproval over the IOC's handling of the Fortnite Olympics Event.

Fortnite Faces Backlash as Olympic Event Simplifies eSport

The International Olympics Committee announced the Olympic Esports Series 2023, including Fortnite as the tenth title. Instead of traditional competitive formats, it will host an invitational where twelve players from the Fortnite Champion Series will participate in a shooting challenge within the game's Creative mode. This decision has sparked outrage among fans who feel the IOC is disconnected from the eSports community. They argue that unlike other events, Fortnite's inclusion is reduced to a mere accuracy test, diminishing its competitive essence.

The criticism stems from a broader frustration within the gaming community. Many believe that the IOC missed an opportunity to showcase more inclusive and popular titles like FIFA or League of Legends, which represent the true spirit of eSports. Instead, the focus on a shooting-based challenge for Fortnite has drawn comparisons to how traditional sports oversimplify complex games. Fans are calling for the IOC to better understand the nuances of eSports and the needs of its players and audience if it hopes to gain legitimacy within this rapidly growing field.

Highlights

The direction of eSports in the Olympics remains precarious and uncertain.