Fortnite is the world’s most popular video game. The North Carolina-based company behind it, Epic Games, has racked up hundreds of millions of active users and generated billions of dollars from in-game microtransactions.

The sandbox shooter is available on a variety of platforms including PC, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch and iOS devices. Its popularity is based on its flexibility and ability to deliver new content, updates, and features weekly.

Playing Fortnite involves two main modes: Battle Royale and Creative mode. In Battle Royale, players can drop in solo or in squads of up to four to fight for survival in an ever-decreasing map. In the Creative mode, players can create their own private islands, complete missions to earn in-game items and experience, and use their imaginations to build everything from buildings to cars.

There are four ’chapters’ released in the past year, each of which brings a new feature or map to Fortnite. These changes are designed to draw in older players while introducing new ones.

In Season 4 for example, the newest chapter includes superhero items and costumes that bring some well-known comic book characters to the game. The game also includes new maps that are inspired by famous comic book locations.

The game is free to play, but it makes billions of dollars by selling digital skins and seasonal ‘Battle Passes’ that grant access to in-game items. The FTC has recently hit the game’s developer with a $520 million penalty for violating consumer protection laws.

If you’re considering playing the game, it’s important to know how to get started and what to expect from it. First, you should understand that the game’s sandbox style can be addictive. It’s easy to get engrossed in the game and tempted to spend money on in-game purchases, even if they’re not necessary.

Second, you should make sure your child is aware of the risks associated with playing video games online. There’s the potential to be exposed to strangers, and there’s a chance they could encounter violence in the form of profanity or sexual content.

Third, you should ensure that your child is aware of the cost of in-game purchases. Some in-game items can be expensive, especially if your child has high-end hardware.

Fourth, you should check your child’s online activity to see if they are engaging in any other games or activities that aren’t related to Fortnite. This can be a good indicator of whether they’re spending too much time in the game, or not.

Finally, you should consider the game’s rating system. Fortnite has a low age limit of 12+, but it does involve shooting other players – albeit without blood and gore – and this can be an off-putting experience for younger children.

It’s also worth noting that if your child is particularly into the game, it can be difficult to control their actions when they are playing online. They may find themselves chatting with other gamers or posting comments in the chat box that they shouldn’t have posted.