Epic Games
Epic Games is a Cary, North Carolina-based American company behind Fortnite, Unreal Engine and the Epic Games Store, founded in 1991 by Tim Sweeney.
About Epic Games
Updated November 8, 2026Epic Games is an American video game and software company headquartered in Cary, North Carolina. Founded in 1991 by Tim Sweeney as Potomac Computer Systems, the company later operated as Epic MegaGames before adopting the Epic Games name in 1999.
Epic first made its mark with Unreal in 1998, and the technology behind that game grew into Unreal Engine, today one of the most widely used real-time 3D tools in the world. Beyond games, Unreal Engine is used in film and TV production, architecture, automotive design and simulation. The company has now moved on to its next generation: Epic revealed Unreal Engine 6 in 2026.
On the games side, Epic created the Gears of War series and is best known today for Fortnite, which launched in 2017 and became one of the biggest games in the world with its battle royale mode. The company also owns Rocket League developer Psyonix and Fall Guys developer Mediatonic.
In 2018, Epic launched the Epic Games Store on PC, which stands out with its weekly free games and developer-friendly revenue share. Epic is privately held, with Tim Sweeney as its controlling shareholder; Tencent, Sony and Disney, which invested $1.5 billion in Epic in 2024, are among its investors.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Epic Games?
Epic Games was founded by Tim Sweeney in 1991. Sweeney still leads the company as CEO.
Where is Epic Games based?
The company is headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, and has studios and offices around the world.
What are Epic Games’ best-known games?
Fortnite is Epic’s best-known game. The company also created the Unreal and Gears of War series and owns Rocket League and Fall Guys.
What is Unreal Engine?
Unreal Engine is Epic’s game engine, used by studios of all sizes as well as the film, architecture and automotive industries. Unreal Engine 6 is its next generation.
What is the Epic Games Store?
The Epic Games Store is Epic’s PC storefront, launched in 2018. It is known for giving away free games every week.
Who owns Epic Games?
Epic is a private company controlled by founder Tim Sweeney, with Tencent, Sony and Disney among its investors.