Epic Games has updated its rules and creators will have to censor Fortnite map thumbnails to comply with them.
Fortnite is one of the most popular battle royale games and this is largely thanks to the freedom Epic gives players. The game lets players create maps that players worldwide can use. It gives the creators a more intimate feel since they can let others experience their unique work. From the option to choose between multiple character skins to playing on maps created by friends, few games match the freedom Fortnite gives. However, even a game like Fortnite has to implement some rules to ensure the game is playable for everyone.
Epic Games has amended its rules regarding what’s allowed in Fortnite map thumbnails. While the change won’t affect most players, some creators may have to tread carefully.
Epic Games shared the updated rules on the Fortnite website, where it says it will begin censoring custom map thumbnails.
The official Fortnite site shared the rules with creators so they can implement them in their creations. Epic elaborated that the censoring is to make content more suitable for a general audience. The main things being censored in Fortnite map thumbnails are realistic violence, suggestive themes, and gore.
The first example given on prohibited content is the depiction of any character in a sexualized way. Emphasis is given to body parts such as breasts and buttocks. Fortnite has a large number of young people who play the game. This restriction is likely due to making the content more accessible to everyone, especially children.
The next examples are related to violence that isn’t allowed to be shown in any of the map thumbnails. The thumbnails can’t contain active gunfire and the guns can’t be pointed at the viewer or the heads of any character. These restrictions are also likely implemented so all the audience can be catered to and the younger crowd isn’t shown frightening things.
The last examples given disallow images that can induce strong emotional responses. Epic is now censoring Fortnite creators from using images that can cause the viewer to feel terror or dread. This restriction is likely imposed so no unsuspecting viewer is surprised and overwhelmed by a disturbing image.
It is possible that all the restrictions might have logical backing. Map thumbnails aren’t something Epic has complete control over. The chances of players coming across offensive map thumbnails when simply scrolling through available maps are extremely high. However, adding strict guidelines for players to follow can help regulate these thumbnails.
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