Fortnite fans angry about cosmetic items with sudden age restrictions
It’s safe to say no one expected this. In a move that seemingly came out of nowhere, Epic Games has banned “around 7%” of all skins and given them age-related blockers for some maps. This is reportedly an attempt to “protect” younger players from content that may be considered inappropriate. However, this move has left the Fortnite community angry – with many of them demanding refunds for some items.
Certain E-for-everyone maps in Fortnite will ban cosmetics deemed inappropriate for minors. Even if you’ve paid hundreds of dollars to secure a wide selection of skins, they could suddenly all be locked behind an impenetrable barrier – for now. It’s an extensive list that’s affected: hundreds of skins are blocked for use on maps intended for everyone – even the youngest players.
Blanket policy
Photo credit: Epic Games
Epic Games’ decision to ban and ban hundreds of skins is being questioned by fans around the world. There are some confusing elements included in this takedown, including some emotes that seem like they contain nothing explicit at all.
So what exactly is included in Epic Games’ new age restriction policy?
Well, if your skin has anything to do with a weapon, it’s blocked. That means if a gun is in a holster or scabbard, or the equipment shows anything from ammo clips to explosives, it will be jammed. This affects loading screens, skins, emotes – everything. It also targets elements deemed “scary,” but if we’re honest, that’s almost entirely subjective.
For some it’s a random mix. For example, double knives have been banned, but individual weapons such as a knife or a sword are perfectly fine and permitted under the new regulations.
Related: What Fortnite OG Weapons Have Returned?
But why?
In a new move by Epic Games to prevent minors from being exposed to inappropriate content, there is now a requirement to display age ratings for every planned Fortnite island. Of course, this concept also extends to cosmetics. Here’s the latest from Epic Games:
‘More on today’s rating announcement. Approximately 7% of Fortnite outfits can only be equipped on Teen islands. Over the next year, we will ensure that most of these outfits are compatible with all age groups by automatically adapting their appearance to the island you choose to play.”
The plan is to adapt the new changes to make them more user-friendly. However, it is unknown when this change will occur. Until then, users will find their expensive cosmetic items locked out on various islands.
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