Is Fortnite Educational? A Comprehensive Review by Manisha Snoyer
In the world of video games, few titles have sparked as much debate and interest as Fortnite, developed by Epic Games. With its vibrant graphics, engaging gameplay, and massive multiplayer environment, Fortnite has captivated millions of players worldwide, including many children. But as a homeschooling parent, you might wonder: Is Fortnite educational? Should I let my kids play it? This blog dives deep into the educational potential of Fortnite, explores diverse perspectives on gaming, and provides practical advice for parents.
Fortnite, a cultural phenomenon, was crafted by Epic Games, a company founded by Tim Sweeney in 1991. Sweeney, a visionary in the gaming industry, wanted to create a game that blended the excitement of shooter games with the creativity of building mechanics. This vision came to life during an internal game jam at Epic Games around 2011. Initially, the game's development was slow, encountering numerous challenges, including transitioning from Unreal Engine 3 to 4 and altering its art style from dark to a more cartoonish aesthetic.
The official release of Fortnite in July 2017 marked a significant milestone. Sweeney's goal was to create a game that was not only engaging but also constantly evolving. Fortnite quickly gained traction, attracting millions of players worldwide and earning Epic Games billions in revenue. The game has been recognized for its innovative approach, hosting in-game events like the Travis Scott concert, which attracted 28 million viewers. Epic Games has also received accolades such as the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Game Developers Choice Awards and multiple recognitions for Sweeney's contributions to the gaming industry
Differentiation: What Makes Fortnite Special
Fortnite is unique due to its blend of building mechanics and battle royale gameplay. Players can gather resources to construct defensive structures, which adds a strategic layer to the fast-paced combat. This building aspect sets Fortnite apart from other battle royale games like PUBG and Apex Legends, which focus solely on combat. Additionally, Fortnite’s vibrant, cartoonish art style and frequent updates with new content, events, and collaborations with popular franchises keep the game fresh and engaging for players.
Educational Value of Fortnite
Arguments for Fortnite being educational focus on its potential to teach strategic thinking, teamwork, and creativity. The game requires players to plan their moves, collaborate with teammates, and think on their feet to survive and win. These skills can be beneficial in real-life scenarios and educational contexts. Moreover, Fortnite’s Creative mode allows players to build and design their own games, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills .
Arguments Against Fortnite's Educational Value
Conversely, critics argue that Fortnite is not inherently educational and can be addictive. The game's primary goal is survival through combat, which might not align with educational objectives. Concerns also arise about screen time and exposure to in-game purchases. Some parents worry that the competitive nature of the game and its addictive potential might detract from more constructive activities (Business Insider).
The Educational Debate: Are Video Games Good for Kids?
Unschooling advocates often see video games like Fortnite as valuable learning tools. Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, suggests that games can foster important skills such as strategic thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. According to Gray, "Games are natural vehicles for practicing essential cognitive skills and learning how to navigate complex social environments."
On the other hand, critics warn about the addictive nature of video games. Nir Eyal, an expert on behavioral design and author of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products," points out that games like Fortnite are designed to be highly engaging and can potentially lead to addictive behaviors. Eyal explains how these games leverage psychological triggers that keep players hooked, emphasizing the need for moderation and parental oversight. However, in his new book, Indistractable, Eyal recommends approaching this by focusing on what to add (Autonomy, competence, and relatedness) rather than what to take away, and collaborating with children to determine which screen limits to set and how to reinforce them.
Janet Lansbury, a respected parenting advisor and author, argues for extreme caution when it comes to video games, especially for young children. Lansbury believes that video games can disrupt natural developmental processes and create unnecessary stress. Children need real-world interactions and hands-on activities to develop optimally, not screen-based entertainment that can overstimulate and lead to addictive behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of unstructured play and real-life social interactions for healthy development.
Rachel Thomas, a leading voice in the education and technology sector, argues for a balanced approach, differentiating different types of screen time and prioritizing educational relational time. While it's crucial to recognize the potential harms of excessive gaming, we should also acknowledge the educational opportunities games present.
Sandbox vs Addictive games
One framework for evaluating video games is whether it can be classified as a sandbox or addictive game. Many experts recommend sandbox games for children due to their emphasis on creativity, exploration, and non-linear gameplay. Sandbox games provide a platform for players to express themselves, experiment, and engage in imaginative play without the pressure of specific objectives or the competitive elements found in more addictive game formats. These games are often seen as beneficial for cognitive development and problem-solving skills, making them a preferred choice for parents and educators who want to balance entertainment with educational value.
Sandbox Games: Sandbox games are characterized by their open-world structure, allowing players to explore, create, and interact with the game environment with a high degree of freedom. These games do not have a specific end goal, instead offering various activities and tasks that players can engage in at their own pace. Key features of sandbox games include:
Creativity and Exploration:
Players can build, modify, and interact with the game world. Examples include games like "Minecraft" and "The Sims," where the focus is on creativity and personal expression (Psychology Today).
Non-linear Gameplay:
These games do not force players to follow a specific path or storyline, allowing for a more relaxed and self-directed experience (Psychology Today).
Less Pressure and Time Constraints:
Because sandbox games do not have a defined endpoint or urgent objectives, players can play without feeling pressured to achieve specific goals quickly (Psychology Today).
Addictive Games: Addictive games are designed to keep players engaged for extended periods through various psychological mechanisms. These games often include elements that encourage repetitive play and create a sense of urgency. Key features of addictive games include:
Reward Systems:
Frequent rewards and incentives, such as leveling up, earning new items, or unlocking achievements, keep players motivated to continue playing. This system can create a cycle of continuous engagement and gratification (Child Mind Institute).
Short, High-Intensity Sessions:
Games designed to be addictive often feature short, intense gameplay sessions that make it easy to keep playing "just one more round." Each session provides a quick dose of excitement and challenge, making it hard for players to stop (Child Mind Institute).
Social Pressure and Competition:
Many addictive games incorporate social elements, such as leaderboards, multiplayer modes, and in-game events that create a sense of competition and urgency. Players may feel compelled to keep playing to avoid missing out or to keep up with friends (Child Mind Institute).
Which Category Does Fortnite Fit In?
While Fortnite has some sandbox features in its Creative Mode, it predominantly fits the mold of an addictive game due to its reward systems, social dynamics, and the structure of its gameplay sessions.
Addictive Elements:
Reward Systems: Fortnite uses a robust reward system, including battle passes, cosmetic items, and frequent updates that introduce new content and challenges. These elements keep players returning to unlock new rewards and progress through the game (Psychology Today) (Child Mind Institute).
Short, Intense Matches: Each Fortnite match lasts around 20 minutes, providing quick, intense gameplay sessions that encourage players to play multiple rounds in one sitting (Psychology Today) (Child Mind Institute).
Social Interaction: The game’s multiplayer nature and team-based modes (Duos, Squads) create social pressure to play with friends and not miss out on the action. The desire to improve and compete can make it hard for players to stop (Child Mind Institute).
Sandbox Elements:
Creative Mode: This mode allows players to build and design their own worlds, offering a sandbox-like experience where creativity and exploration are the focus. However, this mode is a smaller part of the overall game compared to the battle royale mode (Psychology Today).
Educational Skills Fortnite Teaches
Despite the controversies, Fortnite can offer several educational benefits:
Strategic Planning: Players must plan their moves and manage resources.
Teamwork: Collaboration with teammates is essential in team modes.
Creativity: Building structures and designing in Creative mode.
Problem-Solving: Quickly adapting to changing situations in the game.
Spatial Awareness: Navigating and understanding the game's environment.
Time Management: Balancing gameplay with other responsibilities.
Harmful Effects of Fortnite
Despite its popularity, Fortnite has its flaws. Some users criticize the game's reliance on microtransactions and the pressure to purchase in-game items for a better experience. Additionally, the game’s fast-paced updates can sometimes lead to technical issues and bugs. Balancing the game to ensure it remains fair for all players, especially new ones, is also a challeng
Addictive Nature: The game's design can be highly addictive, leading to excessive screen time, which can negatively impact academic performance and social interactions.
In-Game Purchases: The presence of microtransactions can encourage compulsive spending behavior, which is a concern for parents.
Violence: The game involves shooting and elimination, which might not be suitable for younger children and could desensitize them to violence
Mitigating Harmful Effects
Parents who have successfully managed their children's Fortnite playtime suggest setting clear rules and sticking to them. Engaging in the game with their children can also provide insight into its appeal and help monitor content. Encouraging children to take part in offline activities and social interactions ensures a balanced lifestyle. Using Fortnite as a reward for completing tasks can also be an effective strategy.
Set Clear Limits:
Establish and enforce time limits on gaming to ensure it doesn't interfere with other activities.
Encourage Breaks:
Encourage regular breaks to prevent prolonged screen time and reduce eye strain.
Monitor Content:
Keep an eye on the game's content and your child's reactions, stepping in if anything inappropriate arises.
Promote Physical Activity:
Balance gaming with physical activities to promote overall health and well-being.
Unreal Engine
While Fortnite itself is primarily a game for entertainment, the underlying technology of Unreal Engine offers various educational opportunities. From fostering creativity and design skills to introducing basic concepts of game development and programming, Unreal Engine helps make Fortnite a platform that can inspire and educate its players.
Creativity and Design Skills:
Unreal Engine powers Fortnite's creative mode, where players can build and design their own worlds. This mode encourages creativity, spatial awareness, and design thinking, similar to educational benefits seen in games like Minecraft.
Introduction to Game Development:
By interacting with a game built on Unreal Engine, players can gain a basic understanding of game development concepts. This can spark interest in learning more about programming, 3D modeling, and animation, which are valuable STEM skills.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
The challenges and mechanics of Fortnite require players to use problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Understanding the underlying mechanics of how the game operates, thanks to Unreal Engine, can deepen their appreciation and understanding of these skills.
Collaborative Learning:
Unreal Engine facilitates a multiplayer environment where collaboration and teamwork are essential. These social skills are critical in both educational settings and future workplace environments.
Modding and Scripting:
Advanced users can explore modding and scripting within Unreal Engine, providing a hands-on learning experience in coding and game modification. This can be an entry point into more formal computer science education.
Considerations for Parents: How to Decide Which Approach to Use
When determining the best approach to manage your child's Fortnite play, consider the following factors:
Age and Maturity:
Younger children may need stricter controls and closer supervision. Guidelines often suggest children under 13 should have limited and closely monitored game time (Psychology Today).
For older children and teenagers, a more flexible approach that emphasizes self-regulation and responsibility might be appropriate (Psychology Today).
Individual Temperament:
Some children may naturally balance their gaming with other activities, while others might struggle with setting limits. Tailor your approach based on your child's ability to manage their time and responsibilities independently (Child Mind Institute) (Psychology Today).
Family Values and Priorities:
Align your strategy with your family’s values. If educational benefits are a priority, encourage gameplay that fosters creativity and strategic thinking. If social interaction is valued, focus on modes that enhance teamwork (Psychology Today).
Behavioral Observations:
Monitor your child’s behavior for signs of gaming addiction or negative impacts on their mood and social interactions. Adjust limits accordingly to address any issues that arise (Child Mind Institute) (Psychology Today).
Communication and Involvement:
Engage in open discussions about gaming and its effects. Involve your child in setting rules and understanding the reasons behind them. This collaborative approach can promote better adherence to the agreed-upon limits (Psychology Today) (Psychology Today).
Potential Impact of Violence in Video Games
Desensitization to Violence:
Repeated exposure to video game violence can desensitize children to real-world violence, reducing their emotional response to violent situations (Psychology Today).
Studies have shown that playing violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors over time (Psychology Today).
Aggressive Behavior:
Some research suggests a correlation between playing violent video games and an increase in aggressive behavior in children and adolescents. This can manifest as increased verbal aggression, physical aggression, and reduced empathy towards others (Psychology Today) (Child Mind Institute).
Cognitive and Emotional Effects:
While some argue that violent games can improve cognitive skills, these benefits may come at the cost of increased aggression and emotional desensitization. Parents should weigh these potential risks when deciding on game suitability (Psychology Today).
Unhealthy Social Interactions in Fortnite
Cyberbullying:
The open chat feature in Fortnite can expose children to cyberbullying and toxic behavior from other players. This can include verbal abuse, harassment, and exclusionary tactics that negatively impact the child’s mental health and self-esteem (Aura) (Child Mind Institute).
Peer Pressure:
The social nature of Fortnite can create pressure to play for extended periods to keep up with friends, which can lead to conflicts with parents and other responsibilities. Children may feel compelled to play to avoid missing out on social interactions (Child Mind Institute).
Negative Behavioral Modeling:
Exposure to inappropriate language and behavior in the game can influence children to mimic such behavior in real life. It's important for parents to discuss the difference between in-game conduct and acceptable real-world behavior (Child Mind Institute) (Aura).
Educational Value Score: 15/100
Overall Score: 15
Fortnite scores a total positive score of 57 and a total negative score of 42, resulting in an Overall Educational Value Score of 15. The game’s strengths lie in its engaging and innovative gameplay, potential for teaching strategic thinking, and its customization options. However, concerns about addiction, violence, and the lack of structured educational content significantly impact its overall score. While Fortnite can be a valuable tool for developing certain skills, it requires careful management by parents to ensure it does not negatively affect children's overall well-being and education (Wikipedia) (GameRevolution) (Internet Matters) (Your Teen Magazine) (FamiSafe).
Positive Scores
Uniqueness (8/10): Fortnite combines unique elements of construction and combat, offering an innovative gameplay experience that sets it apart from other battle royale games like PUBG and Apex Legends. Its Creative mode further enhances its uniqueness by allowing players to build their own games and worlds (Wikipedia) (Internet Matters).
Engagement (9/10): The game’s vibrant graphics, regular updates, and social aspects make it highly engaging. Players enjoy the dynamic gameplay and the opportunity to collaborate with friends in various modes (Your Teen Magazine).
Accuracy (6/10): While Fortnite's primary focus is not on educational accuracy, it does incorporate strategic elements and real-world physics in its gameplay, albeit in a cartoonish manner (GameRevolution).
User-Friendliness (8/10): Fortnite is generally easy to navigate and play, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface. However, some technical issues and bugs can occasionally arise during updates (Wikipedia) (Internet Matters).
Pedagogy (5/10): The game indirectly teaches strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, but it is not designed as an educational tool (Internet Matters) (Your Teen Magazine).
Homeschooling (4/10): Homeschooling parents have mixed opinions about its educational value. While it can teach certain skills, many parents are concerned about its potential for addiction and distraction (GameRevolution) (FamiSafe).
Learning Focus (4/10): Fortnite emphasizes strategic and creative thinking through its gameplay, but it lacks structured educational content aimed at academic learning (Your Teen Magazine).
Personalization (7/10): The game offers extensive customization options for avatars and play styles, allowing players to tailor their experience to some extent (Wikipedia).
Special Needs (4/10): While Fortnite can be engaging for children with certain special needs due to its interactive and visual nature, it does not offer specific accommodations for learning disabilities like autism or ADHD (Internet Matters).
Value (6/10): The game is free to play, but in-game purchases can add up quickly. Parents appreciate the no-cost entry but are wary of potential hidden costs (Wikipedia) (FamiSafe).
Negative Scores
Boredom (2/10): Fortnite’s engaging gameplay rarely leads to boredom, though some players may find repetitive elements tiresome over time (Wikipedia).
Addictive Components (8/10): The game’s design is highly engaging, but this can lead to addictive behaviors. Many parents report challenges in limiting their children's screen time (Your Teen Magazine) (FamiSafe).
Violence (6/10): Despite its cartoonish graphics, Fortnite involves shooting and elimination, which can be concerning for parents. However, it avoids realistic blood and gore (GameRevolution) (FamiSafe).
Unhealthy Competition (5/10): The competitive nature of the game can lead to unhealthy levels of stress and frustration among younger players, especially when they struggle to win (Internet Matters).
Excessive Prioritization of School Standards (0/10): Fortnite does not focus on academic standards, which is both a positive and a negative depending on the perspective of its educational value (Your Teen Magazine).
Addiction is a Real Thing: Getting Help
If you notice signs of addiction, such as withdrawal from social activities or a decline in academic performance, it's crucial to seek help. Resources such as the National Institute on Media and the Family and local mental health professionals can provide guidance and support.
Not All Screen Time is Bad: What's Better?
While screen time often gets a bad rap, not all of it is detrimental. Educational video games like Minecraft and Civilization offer collaborative and learning-focused experiences. Minecraft, for instance, can teach kids about architecture, engineering, and environmental sustainability. Civilization introduces players to historical events, strategic planning, and governance.
It’s ok to say no
As a parent, it's important to recognize that it's perfectly acceptable to say no to Fortnite or any other video game if you believe it is not suitable for your child. If you have concerns about the game's impact on your child's behavior, academic performance, or mental health, setting firm boundaries is within your rights and responsibilities. Many parents and experts recommend holding off on games like Fortnite for younger children, particularly those under the age of 13, due to the game's violent content and potential for addictive behavior (Psychology Today) (Child Mind Institute). Saying no can be part of a broader strategy to ensure your child engages in a variety of healthy activities that support their overall development. It's essential to communicate your reasons clearly to your child and involve them in discussions about alternative activities they can enjoy. This approach not only reinforces your values but also helps your child understand the importa
The Promise of Collaborative Educational Video Games
Educational video games hold immense potential. They can make learning interactive and fun, fostering skills that traditional methods may not effectively address. Games like Minecraft and Civilization are excellent alternatives, offering engaging ways to learn and collaborate.
Modulo's Minecraft Club
At Modulo, we understand the importance of engaging children with technology in a mindful and prosocial environment. Our Minecraft Club is designed to teach children how to use technology responsibly and collaboratively. Facilitated by experienced teachers, this club encourages kids to work together on projects, fostering communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills. By creating a structured yet enjoyable setting, we help children navigate the digital world in a healthy and educational way.
Fortnite, like many video games, has its pros and cons. While it can teach valuable skills such as strategic thinking and teamwork, it also carries risks of addiction and exposure to violence. As a homeschooling parent, it's essential to weigh these factors carefully, set clear boundaries, and consider alternative educational games. By doing so, you can ensure that your child's gaming experience is both enjoyable and beneficial.
Minecraft Club!
Club meets on Fridays with a facilitator, kids can play together on the server anytime
1:00pm - 3:00pm PST /4:00 - 6:00pm ET
K-5th grade
Limited to 10 students
Requirements: Must have a Bedrock Minecraft account and be able to access Zoom.
(Bedrock is the standard edition)
With the recent pandemic, people have been confined to their homes and have been missing out on valuable social interactions. Applications like Zoom seek to remedy this, but something is still missing. There isn’t that level of connection with one another as there is in person. However, we can try to use a combination of things to help our club members feel connected.
Using Minecraft as our medium, our club members can have a virtual experience with their peers! One great example of such use is the creation of virtual graduations. In the past year, schools have been using Minecraft to host virtual graduations for their students. Although the experience isn’t entirely the same, we can use Minecraft to have our club members see each other inside the game and have them build valuable and meaningful connections with other campers.
This club seeks to encourage kids to bond with each other using a combination of Zoom and Minecraft. Campers will be able to see each other in person on Zoom and as their avatar on Minecraft. They will be participating in team based games and learn to work together to accomplish their goals. We will also be mixing it up with interactive, physical activities such as 20 questions, scavenger hunts, yoga and art to help the kids keep physically active and get to know each other better!
Our server can fit 10 kids and they are welcome to meet up during the week to play outside of regular club hours.
Disclaimer: This blog is a reflection of various perspectives and is intended for informational purposes. Always consider your child's individual needs and consult with educational professionals if necessary.
