Fortnite Sidekicks: Cute Companions or Epic’s Latest Cash Grab?

Epic Games has officially unveiled Fortnite Sidekicks – customizable digital pets that will accompany players across the game’s vast multiverse of modes, from Battle Royale and Save the World to LEGO Fortnite and the Festival stage. At first glance, these companions seem like an endearing addition to the Fortnite experience.

Yet, beneath the charming aesthetics and animated reactions lies a heated community debate about customization limits, pricing, and what some call the company’s latest monetization overreach.

According to Epic’s announcement, Sidekicks are designed to “join your adventures and react to the world around you,” adding personality and flair to every match. Each Sidekick can be crafted to reflect the player’s taste – from fur or scales to temperament and gestures – but there’s a significant catch: once you confirm your design, it’s locked forever. You’ll be able to rename your pet or change accessories like hats, glasses, or hoodies, but the base appearance and personality you choose at the start can never be altered. The only workaround? Buying the same Sidekick again.

Epic clarifies: “You can customize the appearance of your Sidekick one time after obtaining it. You can purchase a Sidekick multiple times and give them different appearances; however, each customization must be unique.” That means if you want multiple color schemes or moods for your favorite pet, you’ll have to pay again – and again. While this design may technically allow for diversity, fans see it differently: a cleverly disguised paywall in a game already infamous for expensive cosmetics.

The first batch of Sidekicks launches with Peels, an adorable banana pup available through the November 1 Battle Pass. Following soon are familiar faces like Bonesy, Spike, and Lil’ Raptor on November 7, each with their own themed flair. For collectors, Bonesy will automatically unlock for anyone who already owns the classic Bonesy Back Bling. Cat lovers can also expect their own companion soon after. While the rollout of Sidekicks has excited some players for the sheer cuteness factor, the pricing details have stirred backlash across Reddit and social platforms. Lil’ Raptor and Spike cost 1,200 V-Bucks, while themed versions like Flopstick and Cuddle Team Jr. jump to 1,500 V-Bucks – surpassing even the price of many premium character skins.

Critics argue that the concept of having to repurchase a pet to simply alter its color or base look is a troubling precedent. “Locking customization behind multiple purchases is probably the greediest move Epic has made yet,” one frustrated player wrote on the subreddit. Others lament the shift from creative freedom to corporate greed, recalling earlier days when Fortnite’s cosmetic system felt fairer. One comparison often cited is the Wraps system – where a single wrap could be applied universally across all weapons and vehicles – now replaced by compartmentalized monetization.

Some players defend the feature, noting that at least Sidekicks don’t affect gameplay and can’t be injured in battle. Epic insists these companions are purely cosmetic and meant to enhance fun, not provide advantages. Yet even that reassurance hasn’t quelled the frustration. As one user put it, “Either make them this price and let all styles be selectable, or lower the cost – because right now nobody’s gonna bother.”

Adding to the buzz, Epic teased that the Simpsons crossover will arrive on November 1, 2025. A limited-time Springfield mini-season will bring Homer, Marge, Bart, and even Kang and Kodos to Fortnite’s universe just after Fortnitemares 2025 concludes. While details remain scarce, players are already speculating about themed skins, map changes, and potential quests set in Springfield’s chaotic world.

Ultimately, the Sidekick feature symbolizes the broader tension within Fortnite’s evolving identity – between creativity and commerce. Epic continues to innovate with playful ideas, but each new monetized layer risks alienating long-time players who remember when Fortnite felt more about fun than financial grind. As the community debates, one thing’s clear: Fortnite’s newest companions may be adorable, but the business model behind them is leaving a sour taste in many mouths.