The Fortnite Star Wars collaboration has just released its most talked-about cosmetic yet - requiring players to complete an astonishing 1.28 million XP grind before even getting the chance to purchase Darth Jar Jar.
The Controversial Galactic Grind
While available in Fortnite's Item Shop this weekend, the Darth Jar Jar skin requires players to first reach this staggering XP threshold. Even after completing this challenge, the Sith-themed Jar Jar Binks variant still costs 1500 V-Bucks (approximately $13).
Though Fortnite has implemented XP gates before, this marks the first time in years they've done so with such a highly anticipated cosmetic release during time-limited Star Wars event.
The Frustration Builds
With Fortnite's Star Wars season set to conclude on June 7th, players now face a tighter deadline to accumulate the necessary XP. Many who had already completed their battle pass now confront additional grinding requirements.
"I was completely fine with a standard paywall for this skin," one Reddit user lamented in a thread discussing the release. "But locking it behind an XP requirement just feels insulting – I'm supposed to earn the privilege of spending money? I closed the game immediately."
The controversy intensifies with the simultaneous release of standard Jar Jar Binks skin (without XP requirements) at the same 1500 V-Bucks price point. Combined with various accessory bundles, completing the full Jar Jar collection could cost players upwards of 6500 V-Bucks.
A Divided Community
"Regular Jar Jar alone costs $20," another player commented. "Want both versions? That's $52 for what should've been a single skin with multiple styles."
More patient players report completing the XP requirement through dedicated grinding sessions across Fortnite's various modes:
"Honestly, the XP grind wasn't terrible – took me about 8-9 hours total," shared one determined fan. "I spaced it across three sessions using Rocket Racing and completing Alignment Challenges. Once I saw how quickly XP accumulated, the price actually seemed reasonable compared to previous premium skins."
The Mandalorian Invasion
As the Star Wars season enters its final weeks, anticipation builds for upcoming Mandalorian-themed content – including customizable armor pieces – prior to the season-ending live event on June 7th.
Rumors suggest this climactic finale may involve an assault on the Death Star that's been looming ominously above the Battle Royale map since season launch.
