When Fortnite becomes an educational playground... CNES has understood this, and has launched a new map called Amazonia: Space to the rescue in March 2025. Available free of charge on PC and consoles, this map invites players to explore a space mission to protect the Amazon rainforest, starting from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou. The aim is to raise young people's awareness of climate issues through a realistic and entertaining scenario.
The mission begins with Ariane 6 placing a satellite into orbit. The player must then carry out a "calibration/ground-truth" operation, comparing satellite data with reality. The game takes a new turn when a fire breaks out in the Amazon rainforest. The player uses satellite tools to intervene and pilot a seaplane to extinguish the flames. Several areas of the Guiana Space Center are modeled, including the ELA-4 launch pad, the Ebène trail and the Karouabo creek, offering a concrete glimpse of the local biodiversity.
This project is part of the CNES strategy to make space accessible to as many people as possible. Following on from initiatives such as role-playing games on Twitch and challenges on simulators, this Fortnite map is particularly aimed at younger audiences. CNES points out that"Fortnite now offers gaming experiences in all fields and for all audiences. Everyone can create their own universe, just as content creators on YouTube or Twitch do today".
A second chapter, produced with the Rainforest Organization, will soon be available. Entitled Save the Rainforest, it will enable players to meet Brazil's indigenous peoples and tackle the issues of deforestation. The data used in the game is based on real-life projects, such as TropiSCO and ALEOFEU, from the Space for Climate Observatory, a CNES initiative. And to access the map, here's the code for the island in question: 1524-9147-5495. To your joysticks and keyboards!
