Epic Games Store could get more lightweight as Unreal Engine Marketplace set to move elsewhere
Mario Bautista
Epic Games has announced a significant shift in its distribution strategy, with the Unreal Engine Marketplace set to leave the Epic Games Store, becoming a newly launched platform called Fab. This move, marks a departure from the traditional model of bundling development tools with a gaming storefront.
The decision to separate the Unreal Engine Marketplace from the Epic Games Store has been met with a mix of reactions from the gaming community. While some fans expressed concerns about the potential implications for convenience, others welcomed the move as a step towards streamlining the experience. Below you will find the official statement released by the Marketplace Team:
Positive notes
One of the primary benefits of the transition to Fab is expected to be a reduced load on the Epic Games Store launcher. For users solely interested in playing games, this could translate to a faster and more efficient experience. Additionally, Fab will likely offer a more tailored environment for developers, providing easier access to relevant tools and resources.
If Epic Games can effectively position the new platform as a go-to destination for Unreal Engine assets and tools, it could be a positive development for the gaming industry. However, only time will tell whether this move will prove to be a win. And if it does indeed make the gaming-focused Epic Games Store more lightweight, we see it as a big win.
Longterm implications uncertain
However, the long-term implications of this change remain uncertain. While Fab should offer a more focused platform for developers, there are concerns for users who rely on multiple digital storefronts. It is also unclear how this move will affect Unreal Engine as a whole, which has become prominent in game development.
Reddit users have already begun discussing the potential implications of this announcement. Some expressed optimism about the possibility of a lighter and more streamlined launcher, while others voiced concerns about the potential for increased challenges. One user commented, “Oof idk (I don’t know) if this is good or bad news,” reflecting the mixed sentiments surrounding the change.
Fab is currently set to launch in October, meaning the transition will likely be happening from launch or at least within the first few months. Ultimately, the success of the new storefront will depend on how well it addresses the specific needs of those using it daily.
