Fortnite Refund Frenzy: FTC Sends $126M Back to Players Duped by Epic Games

Hot Take:

Who knew that battling in Fortnite could earn you more than just virtual victories? With refunds rolling in, some players might finally have a reason to floss dance in real life. Epic Games might have been epic at gaming, but the FTC just leveled up the refund game. It’s a victory royale for the bank accounts of 969,173 players!

Key Points:

• FTC approves $126 million in refunds for Fortnite players due to alleged manipulative purchase tactics by Epic Games.
• The claim portal is reopened for eligible players to submit for a third round of refunds.
• Epic Games faced accusations of tricking users into unwanted purchases and violating children’s privacy laws.
• The first round of refunds in December 2024 distributed $72 million to eligible users.
• Eligible purchases made between January 2017 and September 2022 can be claimed until July 9, 2025.

Epic Refund Royale

In a plot twist worthy of a Fortnite narrative, the FTC is shelling out $126 million in refunds to players who, let’s face it, probably didn’t need another virtual dance emote. This marks phase two of the settlement saga with Epic Games, who seemed to have played a little too loose with the rules of the digital marketplace. The allegations? Epic’s in-game store was a labyrinth of confusion, with purchase prompts and offers that were more misleading than a mirage in a desert map.

Game On, Wallets Open

Epic Games’ alleged skill at tricking players into accidental purchases has landed them in hot water. The FTC claims that dark patterns were employed to separate players from their cash without as much as a “Are you sure?” pop-up. From underage players making purchases sans parental approval to charges occurring during game sleep mode, it seems Epic was operating on a “let’s see what sticks” strategy. Refunds from the first round averaged $114; this time, they’re sweetening the pot to $130. It’s not a jackpot, but it sure beats a llama loot box.

Claim It Like You Mean It

If you were one of the many who fell victim to the enticing, albeit confusing, calls to purchase V-Bucks or shiny skins without fully knowing what was happening, the FTC is here to right those wrongs. Eligible players can now submit their claims for the third time, with the window open until July 9, 2025. Think of it as your chance to rewind time and undo those impulsive purchases that left you shaking your head.

Money Matters and Parental Powers

Epic Games might have been the pied piper of in-game transactions, leading players into a financial frenzy, but it turns out the FTC has their own tune. For those underage players who were caught in the purchase crossfire, parents or guardians can step in to claim those refunds. Even Epic’s most epic fans could use some real-world gold coins, after all.