Fortnite's Star Wars season has introduced its most talked-about cosmetic yet - Darth Jar Jar - sparking debate among players due to its unconventional unlock requirements.
A Galactic Controversy Emerges
The polarizing Darth Jar Jar skin became available in Fortnite's Item Shop this weekend with a unique catch: players must first earn 1.28 million XP simply to unlock the purchase option. Even after completing this substantial grind, the skin still costs 1500 V-Bucks (approximately $13).
While XP-locked cosmetics aren't entirely new to Fortnite, this marks the first major implementation in years - especially surprising for what many considered a headline cosmetic of this condensed Star Wars season.
Compressed Timeline Adds Pressure
With Fortnite's Star Wars season concluding on June 7th, players now face a tight window to accumulate the necessary XP. Those who had already completed their Battle Pass suddenly find themselves returning to the grind.
"I was excited for this skin and okay with the usual price tag," shared one Reddit user in a growing discussion thread. "But locking the purchase option behind XP? That's absurd. Why should I work to earn the privilege of spending money? I quit the game immediately."
A Divided Community Reacts
The situation became more complex with the simultaneous release of a standard Jar Jar Binks skin (without XP requirements) at the same 1500 V-Buck price point. Including optional accessories for both variants, collectors could spend up to 6500 V-Bucks on Jar Jar-related content.
"Regular Jar Jar alone costs $20," commented another player. "Getting everything pushes it past $50 for what should've been one skin with multiple styles."
However, some defenders argue cosmetics remain optional purchases. One dedicated player shared: "Earning the XP wasn't terrible - took me about 8-9 hours total. I focused on Rocket Racing and Ranked modes while completing Alignment Challenges for efficient XP farming."
The Season Continues: Mandalorian Content Incoming
As debates continue, Fortnite's Star Wars season moves forward with Mandalorian-themed content. Players anticipate a customizable Mandalorian skin arriving soon in the Item Shop.
The season will culminate on June 7th with a live narrative event many speculate will involve boarding the ominous Death Star that's loomed over the Island throughout the season.
This controversy follows recent tensions between Epic Games and Apple, including Fortnite's apparent blocking from returning to the US iPhone App Store earlier this month.
