Fortnite's current Star Wars season has unleashed its most anticipated cosmetic yet - but stunned players by locking it behind a grueling 1.28 million XP requirement.
The controversial Darth Jar Jar skin appeared in Fortnite's item shop this weekend with an unprecedented barrier - players must first accumulate massive XP totals just to unlock the purchase option. Even after completing this exhausting grind, the skin still carries a 1500 V-Buck price tag (approximately $13).
Unprecedented XP Wall Frustrates Fans
While Fortnite has previously implemented XP requirements for certain cosmetics, this marks the first major instance in years - and the decision seems particularly puzzling for a headline skin in this limited-time Star Wars event.
Compounding player frustration is the rapidly closing window to complete this challenge, with the Star Wars season concluding on June 7. Those who already completed their Battle Pass now face additional hours of grinding.
"I was excited for this skin and would have gladly paid," one Reddit user lamented. "But requiring me to earn the privilege to spend money? I instantly quit the game."
Pricing Structure Sparks Controversy
The situation worsens with the simultaneous release of a standard Jar Jar Binks skin - available immediately for 1500 V-Bucks - and various accessory bundles. Collecting all Gungan-themed cosmetics would cost approximately 6500 V-Bucks (over $50).
"Basic Jar Jar costs $20 alone," another player criticized. "Getting both versions plus accessories totals $52 for what should be one skin with alternate styles."
Fortnite x Star Wars Watch Party Island Screenshots
View 7 Images
Defenders Cite Player Choice
Some community members defend the system, noting cosmetics remain optional purchases. "He's just a skin - don't buy it if you don't want it," one player advised, referencing the character's troubled Star Wars history.
Others found the XP requirement manageable: "Took about 8-9 hours total. I focused on Rocket Racing and Alignment Challenges for maximum XP efficiency. At 1500 V-Bucks, it's actually cheaper than premium skins like Deathstroke."
Mandalorian Content Coming Next
As the Star Wars event enters its final week, Epic Games shifts focus to Mandalorian warriors. A highly customizable Mandalorian skin will soon appear in the shop, culminating with a live narrative event on June 7. Many speculate this will involve the ominous Death Star looming over the game map.
The controversial release follows Epic Games' ongoing legal battle with Apple, which recently blocked Fortnite's return to the iOS App Store in the U.S.
