Fortnite’s popular Creative map “Steal the Brainrot” has sparked major backlash after adding expensive loot boxes and gambling-style wheels just days after Epic Games allowed creators to sell in-game items.
The map, one of Fortnite’s biggest hits with millions of players, now offers bundles up to $45 (4,900 V-Bucks) and a roulette wheel where users spend V-Bucks for random rewards. Players call it “predatory gambling” aimed at kids, with some comparing it to loot boxes Epic faced lawsuits over before.
Epic Games enabled third-party microtransactions in Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN) last week, letting creators earn 40% of sales. Steal the Brainrot’s developer quickly added the features, including a “Present Rot” pack and chance-based spins.
On X and Reddit, fans are furious. One post said: “This is 100% gambling. I’m terribly disappointed.” Another warned: “Kids are gonna use their parents’ money to get scammed.” Some creators boycotted, calling it a “complete insult” to Fortnite’s integrity.
The developer refunded purchases and took the map offline temporarily amid complaints. Epic has not commented yet, but players demand better rules on chance-based mechanics.
This controversy highlights risks as Epic opens monetisation, especially for a game popular with young players. Watch for Epic’s response soon.
Source: IGN
