# Fortnite’s Age Restriction Update Sparks Community Backlash
## Fortnite OG Season Celebrations Short-Lived due to Controversial Update
Fortnite’s community recently indulged in a wave of nostalgia as the game reintroduced its original map, a much-celebrated event dubbed the OG season. However, the atmosphere shifted rapidly from celebration to contention following Epic Games’ latest announcement.
## New Age Ratings Imposed on Fortnite Islands and Cosmetics
Epic Games announced on the Fortnite website that all Fortnite islands will now carry an age rating, a move previously anticipated by fans. However, the surprise twist that sparked uproar was the decision to **also give each cosmetic item an age rating**. This means that if an item does not align with an island’s classification, players will be unable to equip it within that space. Should an item already be equipped, it will be replaced by a default item.
The goal of this change, as stated in the announcement post, is “to help parents and players make informed decisions about the thousands of games and other experiences in Fortnite.”
## Developers Respond to Criticism with Future Update Plans
In a follow-up statement, the Fortnite developers clarified the extent of the impact, explaining that **about 7% of Fortnite outfits are restricted to Teen-ranked islands only**. They also revealed plans to modify most of these outfits to be compatible across all rankings. Over the coming year, these outfits will automatically adjust their appearance based on the island on which players choose to play.
Remarkably, modes such as Battle Royale and Zero Construction maintain a T for Teen rating, exempting them from these cosmetic restrictions. Despite this, the decision to restrict the use of paid cosmetics in certain areas has been met with considerable criticism.
## Community Outcry on Social Media
Reactions on social media were swift and severe, with many players voicing their dissatisfaction. One user, @archer_fortnite, lamented on X/Twitter, stating, “**This may be the worst update in the history of the game.**” Others have gone as far as to suggest that this move could “destroy Fortnite” or its community, expressing their discontent in no uncertain terms.
## Online Petition Calls for Reevaluation of Restrictions
The community’s response has not been limited to social media uproar. An online petition calling for Epic Games to “reevaluate” the age restriction system has gathered momentum, amassing **4,291 signatures** at the time of reporting.
## Additional Security Measures Rolled Out by Epic Games
Despite the backlash, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the only security feature being rolled out by Fortnite. Epic Games also introduced a new voice report feature that allows players to record audio and send anonymous reports in an effort to maintain a safe gaming environment. Yet, while these features may aim to increase security, they coincide with the game’s return to the classics in its “OG” update. Interestingly, this throwback to the original map has helped Fortnite achieve its highest number of daily players, demonstrating that nostalgia still holds a powerful allure for the Fortnite community.
## Conclusion
While safety and informed decision-making in gaming are commendable aims, the implementation of such measures can result in unforeseen backlash from the community, especially if they affect the player experience. Epic Games will likely be keeping a close watch on community feedback as they navigate the challenges of balancing user enjoyment with responsible gaming initiatives.