Good news for Fortnite enthusiasts who might have felt short-changed: you still have a chance to claim your piece of a massive $126 million settlement involving Epic Games. This isn’t a drill, and while the initial frenzy might have subsided, the window of opportunity remains open for eligible players to receive a payout.
What’s This Settlement All About?
Epic Games, the powerhouse behind Fortnite, reached a landmark settlement with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for a total of $520 million. A significant portion of this, $245 million, was designated for consumer refunds related to “dark patterns” and billing practices that allegedly tricked players into making unintentional purchases. The specific $126 million fund is part of this larger settlement, aimed at reimbursing parents whose children made unauthorized V-Bucks purchases, or players who were charged for items they didn’t intend to buy, particularly related to the game’s controversial loot box system and specific cosmetic items.
Are You Eligible?
Generally, you might be eligible if you or your child:
- Made an unauthorized V-Bucks purchase between January 2017 and September 2022.
- Were charged for items you didn’t want due to misleading counter-intuitive button configurations.
- Were charged for items, emotes, or cosmetic purchases that auto-renewed without clear consent.
The exact eligibility criteria are detailed on the official settlement website. It’s crucial to check these specifics to confirm your claim.
How to Apply for Your Share (It’s Easier Than You Think!)
The process is designed to be straightforward. Here’s a general guide:
- Visit the Official Settlement Website: Do a quick search for “Fortnite FTC Settlement” to find the legitimate claims website. Be wary of unofficial sites.
- Locate the Claim Form: The website will have a clearly marked section for submitting a claim.
- Provide Necessary Information: You’ll likely need to provide details such as your Epic Games account information, the approximate dates of the purchases in question, and how you wish to receive your payment (e.g., PayPal, check).
- Submit Your Claim: Once all information is entered, submit the form. You should receive a confirmation.
It’s important to act promptly. While the phrase “still time” is accurate, these settlements often have rolling deadlines, and waiting too long could mean missing out entirely.
What To Expect After Applying
Once your claim is submitted, it will be reviewed for eligibility. This process can take some time, given the large number of potential claimants. If approved, you will be notified and your payment will be issued via your chosen method. Keep in mind that the individual payout amounts will depend on the total number of approved claims and the amount of money available in the fund.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. If you believe you’re eligible, take a few minutes to visit the official settlement site and submit your claim. It’s your chance to get some well-deserved compensation from the world of Fortnite!