Fortnite’s latest update has left its fanbase divided, and it’s not just about the game’s new Springfield-themed map or the hilarious Peely antics with The Simpsons. The real controversy? Sidekicks—adorable, customizable pets that come with a hefty price tag. Epic Games is pushing the boundaries of how much players are willing to shell out for virtual companionship, and not everyone is happy about it. But here’s where it gets controversial: while these sidekicks are undeniably cute, their pricing and limitations have sparked accusations of greed, leaving fans questioning whether Epic has gone too far this time.
At first glance, sidekicks seem like a fun addition—think Pokémon meets Fortnite. You can name them, pet them, and they’ll loyally follow you around during matches. But there’s a catch. Unlike back bling pets, which are visible to other players, sidekicks are invisible to anyone outside your party. This lack of visibility has left many players feeling underwhelmed, especially when paired with the steep costs. For instance, leaks suggest upcoming sidekicks could range from 1,000 to 1,500 V-Bucks—that’s up to $13 for a digital pet. And if you want to change your sidekick’s appearance? You’ll need to buy another one. Yes, you read that right.
But here’s the part most people miss: the real issue isn’t just the price; it’s the principle. Fans are frustrated that Epic is asking them to pay multiple times for the same type of item, especially when back bling pets already exist without these restrictions. One Reddit user passionately urged others to ‘vote with their wallets,’ calling the monetization scheme ‘disgusting.’ The comparison to EA’s aggressive pricing strategies in games like EA Sports FC has only fueled the fire. And with some sidekicks expected to cost more than character skins, players are left wondering: where does it end?
Fortnite’s free-to-play model relies on cosmetics and add-ons to generate revenue, but the sheer volume of purchasable items is becoming overwhelming. From gliders and emotes to Lego pieces and now sidekicks, the game is a treasure trove of microtransactions. While these items are optional, they can significantly impact your social experience—kids, for example, have faced bullying for not having ‘cool’ skins. Is this the future of gaming, where standing out comes at a premium?
Despite the backlash, not everyone is upset. Some players are thrilled with their new banana-dog companions, naming them and sharing their joy online. And there’s a glimmer of hope: Epic has reportedly sent out surveys gauging player feedback on sidekicks, suggesting their plans might still evolve. But if history is any guide—like with the normalization of pricey ‘kicks’—sidekicks may not get cheaper; they’ll just offer more options at varying price points.
So, here’s the question: Are sidekicks a step too far, or just another example of Fortnite’s bold experimentation? Do you think Epic is being greedy, or are players overreacting? Let’s spark a discussion—share your thoughts in the comments below. After all, in the world of Fortnite, the line between innovation and exploitation is as blurry as a banana-dog’s coat.
