Disney invests $1.5B in Epic Games, plans new “games and entertainment universe”
Enlarge / What is this, some sort of "meta universe" or something? (credit: Disney / Epic)
Entertainment conglomerate Disney has announced plans to invest $1.5 billion for an "equity stake" in gaming conglomerate Epic Games. The financial partnership will also see both companies "collaborate on an all-new games and entertainment universe that will further expand the reach of beloved Disney stories and experiences," according to a press release issued late Wednesday.
A short teaser trailer announcing the partnership promises that "a new Universe will emerge," allowing players to "play, watch, create, [and] shop" while "discover[ing] a place where magic is Epic."
In announcing the partnership, Disney stressed its long-standing use of Epic's Unreal Engine in projects ranging from cinematic editing to theme park experiences like Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Disney's new gaming universe will also be powered by the Unreal Engine, the company said.