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, making it once again accessible to players.
The return of the Master Chief skin, initially released in 2020, generated considerable excitement among Fortnite fans. Its reappearance in the Item Shop in 2024 was highly anticipated. However, the December 23rd announcement that the Matte Black style would be unavailable sparked widespread outrage within the community. This contradicted previous assurances that the style could be unlocked at any time after purchasing the skin and playing on Xbox Series X/S. Epic Games subsequently corrected its statement, confirming the Matte Black style remains unlockable as originally promised.
The Master Chief skin's controversial return highlights ongoing tensions between Epic Games and its player base. The change affecting both new and existing owners fueled concerns about potential FTC violations, especially given the recent $72 million refund issued by the FTC to Fortnite players due to "dark patterns" employed by Epic Games. Players expressed frustration at the inability to unlock the Matte Black style, even if they had purchased the skin years prior.
This isn't an isolated incident. The recent reintroduction of the Renegade Raider skin also caused controversy, with veteran players threatening to abandon the game. Current demands for an "OG" style for original Master Chief purchasers are unlikely to be met by Epic Games, despite the resolution of the Matte Black style issue.
