Epic & Lego to build a metaverse for kids

In a statement, Epic Games CEO, Tim Sweeney, revealed that the Fornite developer and Lego are coming together to create a virtual space aimed at kids.

“We are excited to come together to build a space in the metaverse that’s fun, entertaining, and made for kids and families,” Sweeney said

Though details are scarce on the partnership being the two companies. However, a press release reveals that whatever it is they end up building, it will be designed as a family-friendly virtual space from the beginning.

“The Lego Group and Epic Games will combine their extensive experience to ensure that this next iteration of the internet is designed from the outset with the wellbeing of kids in mind,” the companies explained in a press release.

Epic has extensive experience creating virtual worlds, primarily through the enduringly popular Fortnite, while Lego has had an increasingly large focus on video games, most recently with the launch of Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga this week.

Meanwhile, two of the most popular online video games — Minecraft and Roblox — offer a similar style of sandbox building as Lego bricks.

There’s no information about what this new Fortnite-meets-Lego world could look like when it will be available, or on what platforms it’s expected to launch.

But the companies did announce a trio of principles they say will guide its creation: “protect children’s right to play by making safety and wellbeing a priority; safeguard children’s privacy by putting their best interests first; empower children and adults with tools that give them control over their digital experience.”