Following significant player backlash, Fortnite has reinstated the unlockable Matte Black style for the Master Chief skin. Epic Games reversed its earlier decision, confirming players can now unlock this style as originally intended.
The December Fortnite Winterfest event has largely been well-received, but the Master Chief skin's return proved contentious. Initially, Epic Games announced on December 23rd that the Matte Black style, previously advertised as always unlockable, would be removed. This sparked widespread community outrage, with many citing potential FTC violations. The FTC recently issued $72 million in refunds to Fortnite players due to alleged "dark patterns" employed by Epic Games. The change affected both new and existing Master Chief skin owners, adding fuel to the fire.
This reversal follows the reintroduction of the Renegade Raider skin, another move that divided the community. While some celebrated its return, long-time players threatened to abandon the game. Currently, some players are requesting an "OG" style for those who purchased the Master Chief skin at launch, a request Epic Games seems unlikely to fulfill, despite resolving the Matte Black style issue. The Master Chief skin, initially released in 2020 and last available in the Item Shop in 2022, returned in 2024, only to face this unexpected controversy. Epic Games' initial statement in 2020 promised the Matte Black style's perpetual unlockability, a promise they have now reaffirmed.
