Epic Games faces $74 million refund over child transactions
Epic Games is a computer game producer best known for its release of Fortnite, which quickly gained global popularity. The studio recently encountered issues due to financial practices involving children.
Fortnite—this game certainly needs no introduction. It features concerts in virtual reality, unique skins, and celebrity endorsements. Travis Scott, Metallica, and Ariana Grande have all been associated with the game, reflecting its substantial budget. Epic Games has also appealed to players with a strong pop culture interest by incorporating characters such as Indiana Jones, Anakin Skywalker, Spider-Man, and the Alien.
The free game has greatly contributed to its popularity (the song of the same name by Taylor Swift certainly played a part), but internet users can make microtransactions. The virtual currency, V-Bucks, allows players to purchase additional skins or various battle packs, enriching the basic gameplay.
Epic Games must return over 74 million dollars
As mentioned earlier, Fortnite relies on microtransactions. Players can purchase virtual currency by topping up their accounts or transactions with a debit card linked to a device. It was revealed that Epic Games exploited this system, allowing children to make transactions without their parents' knowledge, thereby using their financial resources. The company must now refund the total amount obtained from such purchases—over 74 million dollars, approximately 58 million pounds.
