The Epic Games is distributing a new free cosmetic for the most dedicated Fortnite players. Since early January 2026, the Kitsune Sidekick has been automatically granted to anyone who owns a specific old in-game accessory. This move is a direct response to community requests, which complained about the lack of Sidekicks in the Chapter 7 Season 1 Battle Pass. In this way, the company rewards longtime fans and keeps engagement high in the Battle Royale.
To receive the Kitsune companion, however, you need to have a rare item in your collection. The claim is automatic and free for those who already own the original Kitsune back bling. This item was obtained at level 28 of the Chapter 1, Season X Battle Pass, released many seasons ago. Therefore, the offer celebrates veteran players who have been with the title for years. If you meet this criterion, the new Sidekick should already be in your locker, ready to equip in Battle Royale or LEGO Fortnite modes.
What if I don't have the required accessory?
If you didn't have the original Kitsune accessory, unfortunately you won't be able to get the Sidekick for free. There are no codes or alternative quests to unlock it. Still, Epic Games offers other options in the in-game Item Shop. Meanwhile, if you suffer from FOMO (fear of missing out), you can spend your V-Bucks on another available Sidekick. The shop update brought Kit, a robotic cat known since Chapter 2, Season 3. To get it, you need 1,200 V-Bucks, the game's virtual currency.
This strategy of rewarding old players is not unprecedented. Recently, Epic did something similar with the Bonesy Sidekick, given to those who already had the corresponding back bling. So this seems to be a trend to value old items and build fan loyalty. Keep an eye on future updates, as more offers like this may appear throughout 2026, especially after the Winterfest event ends.