CARY – Citing the ongoing racial tension and protests across the US, Epic Games is delaying the launch of a new season for its globally popular Fortnite game as well as a related live event called “The Device.”

“The team is eager to move Fortnite forward, but we need to balance the Season 3 launch with time for the team to focus on themselves, their families, and their communities,” the Fortnite development team wrote in a blog post.

“The live event The Device will be delayed to Monday, June 15, and the Season 3 launch delayed to Wednesday, June 17. We know this delay comes on the heels of another one, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during these difficult times.”

Fortnite has drawn hundreds of millions of players and lits ive events that draw millions of participants. The new season had been set to open on June 11. The Device was set for June 6.

“Recent events are a heavy reminder of ongoing injustices in society, from the denial of basic human rights to the impact of racism both overt and subtle against people of color,” the Fortnite team said.

“We’re acutely aware of the pain our friends, families, team members, players, and communities are experiencing.

“We believe in equality and justice, diversity and inclusion, and that these fundamentals are above politics.”

Fortnite has drawn hundreds of millions of players and lits ive events that draw millions of participants.

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Epic resets new Fortnite season for June 11, prevails in lawsuit