A rare boxed copy of Fortnite has been sold for $42,500, highlighting the phenomenon of video game collectibles. This pristine copy, graded at a 10 A++ by Wata, is an Xbox One version from the game's original 2017 print run and includes access to the original Save the World mode. Although Fortnite is a free-to-play game, this sale emphasizes how limited physical copies can command exorbitant prices in the collectors' market. The game has evolved significantly, now offering diverse experiences and collaborations within its expansive universe, making it not only a gaming platform but a cultural hub.

nWhy would someone pay so much for a copy of a free-to-play game like Fortnite?

Collectible video game copies, especially rare or graded editions, can sell for high prices due to their limited availability and demand among collectors. The $42,500 sale reflects a broader trend where gaming memorabilia is seen as an investment, similar to art or antiques, despite the original game's free-to-play status.

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Fortnite was released in 2017 by Epic Games, initially featuring the co-op survival mode Save the World, with its popular battle royale mode becoming a cultural phenomenon shortly after. The game has since expanded to include collaborations with iconic media franchises and features countless in-game events, attracting millions of players globally. This auction highlights Fortnite's transition from a simple game to a vast multimedia experience.