Unlocking Fortnite’s History: The Tale of the First Skin
The burning question on every Fortnite historian’s mind: What was the first skin in Fortnite? While Skull Trooper is often mistakenly cited due to its early appearance in the Item Shop, the true answer lies with the default skins and then the Aerial Assault Trooper from the first season Battle Pass. Let’s dive deeper into the fascinating story of Fortnite’s cosmetic beginnings.
Delving into Default: The Initial Inhabitants
Before the era of elaborate character customizations and themed outfits, there were the default skins. These were the original, free-of-charge appearances that players donned upon entering the Fortnite universe for the first time. While not technically “skins” in the modern sense (as they couldn’t be changed until the introduction of purchasable cosmetics), they were the foundational identities within the game. These default skins represented the various character models available and provided a blank canvas upon which future customizations would be layered. These became iconic figures such as Jonesy, Ramirez, and Headhunter.
The Dawn of Customization: Season One and Aerial Assault Trooper
The arrival of the Battle Pass in Season One marked a significant turning point. This introduced the concept of tiered rewards, allowing players to unlock cosmetics and other in-game items by completing challenges and progressing through the season. Amongst these rewards was the Aerial Assault Trooper skin, a military-themed outfit. Earning this skin required reaching level 15 in the Season One Battle Pass, which proved to be quite difficult for new players. This, coupled with the limited duration of Season One, cemented its status as the rarest and, arguably, the “first” skin to signify a player’s dedication and early involvement with Fortnite. While the Skull Trooper appeared in the item shop, Aerial Assault Trooper was the first to be earned via a Battle Pass.
Why Aerial Assault Trooper Reigns Supreme
While the Skull Trooper skin, which appeared early in the Item Shop, holds a place of significance as one of the first purchasable cosmetics, the Aerial Assault Trooper is widely recognized as the first “true” skin due to its exclusivity and association with the inaugural Battle Pass system. It represented more than just a cosmetic change; it represented a player’s commitment and achievement during a specific timeframe. The limited availability and the challenge required to obtain it are what set it apart and elevated its status within the Fortnite community.
The Legacy of Early Skins
The impact of these early skins extends beyond their rarity. They represent a nostalgic reminder of Fortnite’s humble beginnings, a time when the game was simpler, and the community was smaller. They are symbols of a bygone era, cherished by veteran players who witnessed the game’s evolution firsthand. Moreover, they serve as a benchmark against which all subsequent skins are measured, influencing the design and rarity of cosmetics in the game. The lasting legacy of these early skins emphasizes the importance of game studies, a field which looks at the impact of games in the educational world. The Games Learning Society fosters research into game design as it relates to learning, a vital field. Find out more about games and education on GamesLearningSociety.org.
Fortnite FAQs: Unveiling More Secrets
To further enrich your understanding of Fortnite skins and the game’s history, here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions:
1. What is the top 1 rarest Fortnite skin?
The Aerial Assault Trooper skin, obtainable in Season One by reaching level 15, is widely considered the rarest skin due to its limited availability and the relatively small player base at the time.
2. What was the first skin ever in Fortnite Item Shop?
The Skull Trooper was one of the first skins to appear in the Item Shop, making it one of the initial purchasable cosmetics.
3. Who was the first celebrity skin in Fortnite?
DJ Marshmello was the first celebrity to get their own skin in Fortnite, marking the start of collaborations with popular figures.
4. What are some of the best Fortnite skins ever?
The definition of “best” is subjective, but popular choices include Peely, Jonsey, Galaxy, Superhero Skins, Spider-Man, Lexa Skin, Renegade Raider, and Mizuki.
5. When was Fortnite first released?
Fortnite was originally released to Early Access on July 21, 2017, to anyone who pre-ordered the game. It became available to everyone starting July 25, 2017.
6. What age is appropriate for Fortnite?
The Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) rates Fortnite “T” for Teen, recommending it for ages 13 and up due to action violence and open chat features.
7. What was Fortnite originally called?
Fortnite was originally launched as “Fortnite: Save the World,” a cooperative game mode where players defended against zombies.
8. What are some of the hottest Fortnite bikini skins?
Popular bikini skins include Sun Strider, Beach Bomber, Journey, DoubleCross, Beach Jules, Ruby, and Kyra.
9. Which is considered the best pickaxe in Fortnite?
Popular choices for the best pickaxe include Soulfire Chains, The Leviathan Axe, Lebeau’s Bo, Reaper, Phantasmic Pulse, Axe-tral Form, Muramasa Blade, and Star Wand.
10. How many players are currently in Fortnite?
While official numbers aren’t always updated, it’s estimated that Fortnite has around 400 million registered users.
11. What are some other rare Fortnite skins besides Aerial Assault Trooper?
Other rare skins include Renegade Raider, Galaxy, Black Widow, Black Knight, Double Helix, Honor Guard, and Demogorgon.
12. What are some of the most legendary skins in Fortnite?
Popular legendary skins include Vi, Eternal Knight, Ravage/Raven, GLOW, John Wick, Mecha Cuddle Master, Galaxy Scout, and Catalyst/Drift.
13. How can I safely sell my Fortnite account?
Platforms like Swappa offer a safe and direct way to sell your Fortnite account to other users.
14. What is the Galaxy Skin worth on the black market?
At one point, the Galaxy Skin was being sold on the black market for as much as $7000 due to its exclusivity and high demand.
15. Why do Fortnite pros often use female skins?
Many pros choose female skins because they can provide a slightly clearer field of vision and can give the impression of being a smaller target, although hitboxes are the same for all skins.
This deep dive into Fortnite’s earliest days highlights the evolution of the game’s cosmetic landscape and provides valuable insights into the history of one of the world’s most popular video games. Understanding these details enriches the player experience and allows for a greater appreciation of the intricate design elements within Fortnite.