Fortnite, one of the world’s most influential online multiplayer games, has recorded its lowest average daily player count in two years, despite launching a high-profile crossover event with the Star Wars franchise.
According to eTrueSports, the average daily player count dropped to approximately 994,711 in May 2025, the lowest figure since May 2023.
This decline coincided with the much-anticipated “Galactic Battle” mini-season, launched on May 2, which included iconic characters like Darth Jar Jar and Emperor Palpatine, as well as interactive Star Wars-themed gameplay featuring Force powers and pilotable starfighters.
Star Wars Event Fails to Spark Player Revival
The Star Wars content was expected to serve as a player magnet. Epic Games heavily marketed the “Galactic Battle” as a celebration of Star Wars Day and introduced new cosmetics, quests, and gameplay mechanics. It culminated in a live event titled “Death Star Sabotage” on June 7, intended to carry player engagement into Chapter 6 Season 4.
However, the numbers suggest the event failed to reignite widespread player enthusiasm. Industry observers point to a seasonal slump: historically, Fortnite experiences its weakest player engagement during May. A similar decline occurred in May 2023, when daily averages dropped to around 927,000.
Fortnite Star Wars Crossover EventLong-Term Downward Trend Continues
The downward trajectory began in December 2024, shortly after the launch of Chapter 6. Despite a brief surge during the holiday season, daily player counts have steadily declined month over month. The average in April 2025 hovered above one million, but May’s drop below that threshold marks a notable setback.
Year-over-year comparisons highlight a broader concern: Fortnite’s 2025 monthly averages have consistently trailed 2024’s numbers, sometimes by as much as 800,000 players. Analysts suggest player fatigue, market saturation, and increased competition from newer titles could be contributing factors.
What’s Next: Hope Rides on Chapter 6 Season 4
Looking forward, Epic Games is banking on Chapter 6 Season 4, which launched on June 7, to help reverse the trend. The upcoming content is rumored to be superhero-themed and includes a fresh battle pass and new gameplay systems designed to attract both new and returning players.
Summer typically brings a resurgence in player activity, aided by school holidays and free time. Historical data shows July often delivers a rebound of 100,000+ daily players, offering a potential lifeline if the upcoming content resonates with the community.
While Epic Games has not publicly addressed the recent decline, the next few months will be crucial in determining whether Fortnite can sustain its cultural and commercial momentum—or if the force is starting to fade.
