Will Nintendo Ever Allow Mario and Link in Fortnite

Will Nintendo Ever Allow Mario and Link in Fortnite

Last Updated on November 16, 2024

Fortnite is renowned for its crossovers, bringing in iconic characters from popular franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and DC Comics. Yet, one franchise that has remained notably absent from these collaborations is Nintendo. While fans have long hoped to see characters like Mario and Link in Fortnite, recent statements from executives at both Epic Games and Nintendo suggest that this may not happen anytime soon. But is there still a chance for this dream collaboration? Let’s explore the possibility.

Why Hasn’t Nintendo Allowed Mario and Link in Fortnite?

Fortnite’s impressive roster of crossovers has introduced characters from various major franchises. However, Nintendo has yet to allow its beloved characters to join the battle royale game. According to Saxs Persson, Epic Games’ head of ecosystem, the company has made multiple attempts to bring Mario, Link, and others like Zelda and Donkey Kong into Fortnite. Despite their efforts, negotiations have not resulted in a deal. However, Epic Games remains hopeful, and they have not given up on the idea of collaborating with Nintendo.

Nintendo’s Reasons for Declining Fortnite Collaboration

One of the reasons Nintendo has been reluctant to partner with Epic Games involves the company’s perspective on its brand and characters. Kit Ellis, a former Nintendo PR manager, stated that it makes sense for Nintendo to avoid this collaboration. He pointed out that Nintendo has built up its brand over decades, and the company doesn’t need Fortnite to maintain its success. Nintendo’s games, films, and merchandise generate billions in revenue without the need for exposure on another platform.

Moreover, Ellis highlighted that the Nintendo brand is family-friendly, and characters like Mario and Link participating in the violent gameplay of Fortnite could potentially conflict with the company’s values. This stance aligns with Nintendo’s consistent efforts to keep its characters, especially iconic ones like Mario and Link, in environments that reflect their wholesome image.

Is There Hope for a Future Fortnite x Nintendo Collaboration?

Despite Nintendo’s reluctance, Epic Games is not giving up on the idea of eventually bringing Nintendo’s characters into Fortnite. Saxs Persson has stated that Epic Games continues to make efforts and is optimistic about the potential for a future collaboration. Although Nintendo currently sees little benefit in having its characters in Fortnite, the door for collaboration remains open.

As fans continue to speculate about the possibility of Mario, Link, and others appearing in Fortnite, it remains unclear whether the companies will reach an agreement. Epic Games is hopeful that future efforts might lead to a partnership, but Nintendo seems content with keeping its iconic characters within its own ecosystem, avoiding the need for external promotion.

Conclusion

It is difficult to predict whether Nintendo and Epic Games will ever come to an agreement. While Epic is still hopeful, the Nintendo brand is so strong that it doesn’t need Fortnite’s exposure. For now, Nintendo is focused on its own profitable ventures, and players may have to wait for changes in the industry before seeing Mario and Link in Fortnite. Unless there’s a shift in perspective, fans should probably temper their expectations and not expect this collaboration anytime soon.

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