Disney and Epic Games Deepen Partnership

The media giant continues to invest in the popular video game developer to expand its entertainment universe.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:09am

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A minimalist studio still life featuring a collection of smooth, geometric objects in shades of blue, grey, and white, conceptually representing the strategic partnership between the media giant and the video game developer.Disney's deepening collaboration with Epic Games aims to bring its beloved franchises to new digital gaming and metaverse experiences.Burbank Today

Two years after announcing a major partnership, Disney and Epic Games are further expanding their collaboration to bring Disney's popular franchises to the 'Fortnite' developer's gaming platforms and metaverse initiatives. The deal aims to engage younger audiences and grow Disney's entertainment universe.

Why it matters

Disney is seeking new ways to reach younger generations of consumers who are increasingly spending time and money in the digital gaming and metaverse spaces. By deepening its partnership with Epic Games, the media conglomerate hopes to leverage the popularity of 'Fortnite' and Epic's other gaming properties to extend the reach of its iconic franchises.

The details

The expanded agreement will see Disney and Epic Games co-develop new interactive experiences, virtual worlds, and in-game events featuring Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars characters. This builds on their initial partnership, which has already resulted in limited-time 'Fortnite' crossover events and the launch of an Epic Games Store for Disney products.

  • The original Disney-Epic Games partnership was announced in 2024.
  • The expanded agreement was announced in March 2026.

The players

Walt Disney Co.

A major American media and entertainment conglomerate known for its iconic franchises including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.

Epic Games

A leading video game and software development company best known as the creator of the popular battle royale game 'Fortnite'.

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What they’re saying

“This expanded partnership with Epic Games will allow us to create new and innovative ways for consumers to experience our beloved franchises.”

— Bob Chapek, CEO, Walt Disney Co.

“We're thrilled to be deepening our collaboration with Disney to bring even more of their iconic characters and stories into our games and the metaverse.”

— Tim Sweeney, Founder and CEO, Epic Games

What’s next

The first new interactive experiences and virtual worlds resulting from the expanded Disney-Epic Games partnership are expected to launch in 2027.

The takeaway

Disney's continued investment in Epic Games demonstrates the media giant's strategic focus on engaging younger audiences through digital gaming and metaverse experiences. This partnership allows Disney to leverage Epic's popular platforms and technology to extend the reach of its iconic franchises.