Fortnite announces MASSIVE change to Battle Pass exclusivity

Prior to the start of Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 4, Epic Games has revealed an important adjustment concerning the structure of the game’s Battle Pass system. Items related to cosmetics in each seasonal Battle Pass will no longer be unique or exclusive. After approximately 18 months, these rewards from the Fortnite Battle Pass might become available for purchase again. This move signifies a significant turning point in the game’s history as the stress of not wanting to miss out (FOMO) associated with the seasonal Battle Pass is no longer an issue.

Fortnite Battle Pass exclusivity changes explained

Any player of Fortnite over the past seven years has experienced the frustration of not acquiring a specific skin from the numerous seasonal Battle Pass rewards. However, this issue will no longer be an issue moving forward. As announced by Epic Games in their blog post about this update, items from future Fortnite Battle Passes may be available for purchase in the Fortnite Shop at least 18 months after the expiration of the Battle Pass itself.

Although the word “might” is worth highlighting here, the overall message addresses the Battle Pass exclusivity issue many have voiced concerns over. For example, those who missed out on Deadpool in the Fortnite Chapter 2 Season 2 Battle Pass can NEVER unlock that skin. In reality, some players joined the Fortnite chaos later and paid the price for it.

Currently, Fortnite enthusiasts can opt for purchasing the Battle Pass, which comes with its own set of perks, extra V-Bucks, and enhanced XP progression. However, if you choose not to buy the Battle Pass, you can still acquire the cosmetic items individually after a span of approximately 18 months.

Here are some highlights from the Q&A section:

Why did Epic Games decide to make this change?

Additionally, Epic Games highlighted an important reason for their decision in their blog post, which was not only influenced but also significantly supported by years of fan campaigns.

As an avid fan, I’m thrilled about one reason behind the recent update. We aim to ensure that future Battle Pass content, such as outfits inspired by beloved licensed characters, remains accessible for players in the long run. Although we can’t promise every Battle Pass item will appear in the shop post-update, IP content from future Battle Passes might become available at least 18 months after the corresponding Battle Pass ends.

Within just about 24 hours following Epic Games’ inadvertent release of a five-year-old “temporary” Paradigm costume, there’s uncertainty about whether these two events are linked. However, fans of Fortnite have welcomed the modification to the Battle Pass system, as it now offers numerous possibilities. No longer is purchasing the seasonal package considered essential.