Fortnite Increases V-Buck Prices by 25% to Cover Costs

Epic Games has announced a significant increase in the prices of V-Bucks, the in-game currency for Fortnite, effective March 19. This change, disclosed on March 10, will see prices rise by up to 25% in response to escalating operational costs. The adjustments also include a reduction in the number of V-Bucks players can earn through the battle pass.

Details of the Price Increase

The V-Buck price hike is the latest move in a trend that has seen the broader gaming industry increase pricing structures. Previously, Epic raised V-Buck bundle prices by 12-15% in late 2023. Players will notice a significant decrease in the V-Bucks received for the same pack prices:

• The $8.99 pack will provide 800 V-Bucks instead of 1,000.
• The $22.99 pack drops from 2,800 to 2,400 V-Bucks.
• The $36.99 pack decreases from 5,000 to 4,500 V-Bucks.
• The $89.99 pack is reduced from 13,500 to 12,500 V-Bucks.

Impact on the Battle Pass

Players will also feel the impact of the changes to the battle pass. The price for the battle pass has been adjusted from 1,000 V-Bucks to 800 V-Bucks, with players now recovering only 800 V-Bucks upon completion. Previously, players could earn up to 1,500 V-Bucks from a complete pass cycle, but now that value has been cut significantly.

• The old OG Pass now costs 800 V-Bucks, down from 1,000.
• The Music and LEGO passes see reductions from 1,400 to 1,200 V-Bucks each.

Furthermore, subscribers of the Fortnite Crew will also see their monthly V-Bucks allowance decrease from 1,000 to 800.

Cost Implications for Players

For clarity, the Hoppers bundle previously listed at 2,000 V-Bucks will now cost players around $22.49. This situation implies that the upcoming Chapter 7 Season 2 Battle Pass, priced at 800 V-Bucks, will deplete an entire $8.99 pack.

To soften the blow, Epic has introduced a 20% Epic Rewards credit on purchases made through its digital storefront. This credit applies on platforms including PC, iOS, Android, and the web, and can be redeemed for use in Fortnite, other Epic titles, or the Epic Games Store. Existing V-Buck gift cards will still redeem at their printed values.

These changes reflect Epic’s efforts to balance rising costs while keeping Fortnite financially viable for its large player base.