Epic Games has finally disclosed the drop rate for Fortnite's Pirate Token, an ultra-rare in-game collectible that grants players access to the Pirate Shop for 14 days. This move comes after a wave of player backlash and even attempts to report the studio to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) due to a lack of transparency surrounding the item's acquisition.
The Treasure Hunters mini-season, which launched on November 1, placed the Pirate Token at the center of controversy. Players argued that the odds of obtaining such a valuable item should be public knowledge to prevent wasted time and effort. Epic Games addressed these concerns through a post on the official Fortnite Status X/Twitter account, detailing the drop rates for various in-game items, including the Pirate Token.
Fortnite Treasure Hunters Drop Rates
Normal Match:
- Weekly Gold Outfit: 1 in 1,562,500
- Pirate Shop Access: 1 in 137,500
- Weekly Vehicle & Decal: 1 in 7,813
- Weekly Pickaxe or Backbling: 1 in 568
- Weekly Jam Track: 1 in 391
- Weekly Loading Screen: 1 in 272
- Gizmo (any): 1 in 127
Treasure Hours:
- Pirate Shop Access: 1.5x
- Weekly Gold Outfit: 7.5x
- Weekly Vehicle & Decal: 10x
The uncertainty surrounding the Pirate Token's drop rate led many players to express frustration online. Some players reported dedicating significant time to opening chests without success, with some claiming to have opened over 15,000 chests without obtaining certain items. This frustration escalated to the point where some players contacted the FTC, citing predatory and deceptive business practices.
While fans have largely welcomed the transparency, many believe Epic Games should have provided these odds at the season's launch. It remains unclear if Epic will implement earlier transparency for future in-game events of this nature. This incident follows other recent controversies, including player campaigns against the 'Nikki from Obsession' skin and reports of delays for a secret Star Wars and Marvel crossover shooter being developed by Epic.