Walmart México Leverages Fortnite for Developer Recruitment
Walmart México y Centroamérica has embarked on a pioneering recruitment strategy, utilizing the popular video game Fortnite to attract and assess software developers. This marks a significant first for a Latin American employer, integrating a gaming platform into its hiring process. The initiative aims to identify skilled talent, from entry-level to senior positions, by evaluating practical competencies within an interactive virtual environment.
Gamified Challenges for Tech Talent
The retail giant has created a custom environment within Fortnite, essentially a mini-game or map, where job candidates can engage in a series of coding challenges. Players, who must be of legal age, can access this unique recruitment island using the Universal Creative Mode Code: 9711-1365-3086. The experience is designed to test skills in key programming languages such as Java, iOS, and Android. The virtual map features five trials or 'worlds' that combine logic puzzles, problem-solving scenarios, and decision-making under pressure, allowing Walmart to gauge a candidate's abilities beyond a traditional resume.
Strategic Move in a Growing Tech Hub
This innovative approach is part of Walmart México's broader strategy to strengthen its technological capabilities. In 2025, the company relocated its IT hub from India to Mexico, establishing the country as a central point for its global technology development. Mexico's burgeoning gaming sector, which ranked as the second-largest gaming market by revenue in Latin America in 2025 according to Statista, provides a fertile ground for this recruitment drive. Juan Carlos Alarcón, Chief People Officer at Walmart México y Centroamérica, highlighted the rationale behind the initiative, stating, 'Imagine, if you can coordinate a squadron in Fortnite, you can probably lead a development team at Walmart.' He emphasized that this method allows the company to 'identify talent based on real competencies.'
Long-Term Vision for Recruitment
The virtual recruitment tool is not a temporary measure; it is slated to remain active through 2027, indicating a long-term commitment to this innovative hiring model. Upon completing the in-game challenges, candidates receive a code that enables them to formally apply for positions through the official Discord channel 'Walmart Tech Lab' or via a QR code linking directly to the company's vacancies site. This strategy aligns with Walmart's recognition in 2025 as a 'Best Place to Code,' positioning it as a top employer for tech talent outside the traditional software industry.
7 Comments
Eugene Alta
Great way to test real-world problem-solving skills. Way better than resumes.
Noir Black
It's certainly an innovative way to engage potential candidates, but I wonder if it truly assesses the depth of coding knowledge required for senior roles. It might be better suited for entry-level positions.
BuggaBoom
It's exciting to see companies embracing unconventional recruitment methods to find talent beyond traditional metrics. Nevertheless, companies must ensure that such gamified assessments are validated to accurately predict job performance and not just game proficiency.
Loubianka
Awesome move! Makes recruitment fun and accessible to a new generation.
Bella Ciao
While I appreciate the effort to think outside the box and connect with a younger demographic, this approach risks alienating skilled developers who aren't familiar with gaming platforms. A hybrid approach might be more effective.
Comandante
Seriously? A game for hiring developers? This is ridiculous.
KittyKat
What about experienced devs who don't play Fortnite? They'll miss out.