Epic Games is bringing a touch of ancient epic poetry to Fortnite. Starting tomorrow, Thursday, July 16, players can pick up a new skin modeled after Matt Damon’s portrayal of Odysseus from Christopher Nolan's upcoming film, The Odyssey.
Quick Facts
- Release Date: July 16, 2026
- Available Characters: Odysseus (Matt Damon) and Agamemnon (Benny Safdie)
- Film Premiere: The Odyssey hits theaters on July 17, 2026
The addition comes as part of a significant game update that also introduces England football legend David Beckham and a selection of Batman-themed character skins featuring swimwear. Epic Games confirmed the news via social media, showcasing footage of the Odysseus skin, which clearly utilizes the likeness of Matt Damon.
Alongside the protagonist, leaker ShiinaBR has revealed that the hulking Agamemnon—portrayed by Benny Safdie in the film—will also be joining the Fortnite roster. While most players will likely look to the item shop to secure these characters, there is an alternative for those looking to save their V-Bucks. A dedicated in-game tournament will offer players a chance to earn the Odysseus skin for free. Those who don't secure the top prize can still earn an exclusive Odyssey-themed loading screen by participating.
A Cinematic Arrival
The timing of this crossover aligns with the theatrical release of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, which opens in cinemas on July 17. The film, which boasts a lengthy runtime of 2 hours and 53 minutes, has been described by Nolan as an attempt to move past traditional cultural prejudices regarding the ancient world. Production notes also highlight the use of a massive, 60-foot practical Cyclops puppet filmed in a real-world cave rather than relying on CGI.
This integration marks another high-profile collaboration for the battle royale. While the literary Homer likely never anticipated his characters appearing in a digital arena, the Odyssey-themed content arrives amidst a broader wave of interest in the ancient epic, including an AI-narrated audio version featuring the voice of Michael Caine and a separate, entirely AI-generated film project.