Fortnite Faces Backlash Over Reskinned Item Shop Offerings
Fortnite players are expressing significant dissatisfaction with Epic Games' recent item shop offerings, criticizing the company for selling what appear to be re-skinned versions of previously available cosmetics. Many players point out that similar skins were previously offered for free or bundled with PlayStation Plus subscriptions. This perceived greediness has sparked widespread online debate.
The controversy highlights the evolution of Fortnite since its 2017 launch. The game's massive expansion into digital customization options, a trend expected to continue throughout 2025, has led to a surge in cosmetic items. While new skins and cosmetics have always been a core element of Fortnite, the current influx, particularly the re-skinned variants, is drawing considerable criticism.
A recent Reddit post by user chark_uwu ignited the discussion, focusing on the item shop's latest rotation of what players deem "reskins" of popular skins. The post highlighted the sale of multiple edit styles as separate purchases, a practice criticized given their previous free availability or inclusion in past PS Plus packs. The user's comparison of free additions from 2018 to 2024 further fueled the accusations of Epic Games prioritizing profit over player satisfaction.
The criticism extends beyond skins to other recently introduced cosmetic categories, such as the controversial "Kicks" footwear. The additional cost for these items, coupled with the perceived re-skinning of existing assets, has solidified the "greedy" accusations leveled against Epic Games.
Despite the controversy, Fortnite's Chapter 6 Season 1 update continues to roll out new content, including weapons, points of interest, and a distinct Japanese aesthetic. Future updates, such as the leaked Godzilla vs. Kong crossover, promise further additions to the game's ever-expanding roster of cosmetic items, suggesting Epic Games remains committed to its current monetization strategy. The inclusion of a Godzilla skin in the current season hints at a continued focus on high-profile collaborations, even amidst player concerns.