Raging Fortnite players slam ‘money grabbing strategy’ after huge update to item shop is ‘leaked’
FORTNITE players have been left furious after a new “money grabbing” update for the game was reportedly “leaked” online.
Users have hit out at developer Epic Games over the controversial feature that was rumoured to be in development.
Since launching in 2017, Fortnite has become one of the hottest games on the market, with an estimated 650 million players worldwide.
The title has become beloved for its expansive game modes and near-endless customisation options.
High-profile collaborations with top brands like Marvel, the NFL, Star Wars and WWE have only reinforced its global dominance in the free-to-play sector.
However, the game has also seen criticism for its use of microtransactions, through which players spend real cash for in-game currency and unlockables.
These act as a major revenue stream for developers, but have seen backlash from customers and regulators.
Fortnite has largely managed to steer clear of the “pay-to-win” critiques levelled at other platforms as players only purchase cosmetic “skins” to change their character’s appearance rather than to boost performance.
But the entire industry has come under greater scrutiny from legislators, particularly concerning the impact of microtransactions on younger users.
Now, though, it is being reported that Epic are working on introducing a new “shoes” cosmetic to go on sale in the game’s store.
This would apparently let users deck out their characters in the latest footwear, likely through collaboration with major shoe brands.
Fortnite has already worked with Nike and Jordan to bring Air Maxes and Air Jordans into the game.
But an apparent leak from X accounts @ESFortniteBR and @BRLeaks_ES have shown what they claim is back-end code for the cosmetic to be rolled out into the wider game.
The move would capitalise on the rapidly growing “Sneakerhead” movement, particularly popular with young people in the US, where people collect and trade rare trainers.
However, the response on social media to the leaks has been less than warm, with fans pushing back against the introduction of another expensive feature, calling it a “money grab”
One user joked: “Because what Fortnite really needed was more microtransactions.”
Another added: “Instead of working on shoes they should work on banning cheaters.”
And a third simply said: “We don’t need this.”
On the other hand, though, some players were quick to point out that there was no obligation to buy the new shoes and that this form of microtransaction was far less damaging than the “pay-to-win” style.
SunTech has contacted Epic Games for comment.