Fortnite Makes Another Big Change to Master Chief Skin

Following significant player backlash, Fortnite has reinstated the unlockable Matte Black style for the Master Chief skin. Epic Games reversed its initial decision to remove the style, ensuring players can once again obtain it.

The Master Chief skin's return in December 2024, during Fortnite's Winterfest event, was initially met with excitement. However, the subsequent announcement on December 23rd that the Matte Black style would be permanently unavailable sparked widespread outrage within the community. This was particularly controversial given previous assurances that the style could be unlocked at any time after purchase. The original 2020 announcement explicitly stated that players on Xbox Series X/S could unlock the style simply by playing the game.

This reversal follows concerns raised by players who felt the change unfairly impacted both new and existing Master Chief skin owners. The controversy also came on the heels of the FTC issuing $72 million in refunds to Fortnite players due to "dark patterns" employed by Epic Games. Some players even suggested this situation could attract further regulatory scrutiny.

The situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding skin availability and perceived unfair practices within the game. While Epic Games has resolved the Matte Black style issue, calls for an "OG" style for original purchasers of the Master Chief skin persist. The recent reintroduction of the Renegade Raider skin also fueled similar controversies, with some long-time players threatening to abandon the game. The likelihood of Epic Games adding an OG style remains low.

In short, the Master Chief skin's return and subsequent Matte Black style saga serves as a prime example of the intense community engagement and potential repercussions surrounding in-game cosmetics and player expectations in Fortnite.