Fortnite introduces Sidekicks - but why are some fans annoyed?

Some fans are not sold on sidekicks

Fortnite has introduced a new pet feature to the game, called sidekicks.

Sidekicks are customizable pets that follow players around during matches.

The first sidekick to be introduced in the game is Peels - a banana-dog - who can be unlocked as part of this season's Battle Pass starting 1 November.

Fortnite have said that more sidekicks will be heading to their shop - for a cost - on 7 November.

However some fans have spoken out online about their unhappiness with some parts of the game's new pet feature, and have expressed their concerns about the potential cost of the new pets in the store.

Enemies won't be able to see a players sidekick

This isn't the first time that Fortnite have introduced pets to the game.

During the season six patch in 2018, Fortnite introduced Backbling pets which ride around on the players back, and can be interacted with by other players.

The new sidekick pets do not take damage, and can run alongside a player, but cannot be seen or interacted with by 'enemies' in the game.

Some players have expressed their disappointment at not being able to show off their new pet, however others have agreed that it could lead to players being seen more easily by other players they are battling against.

This picture from the official tutorial video shows how much sidekicks might cost.

Players can also name their sidekick - and change it as many times as they'd like - and alter their appearance - for example the colour of their fur, their eye colour, patterns and their size.

However, Fortnite have said that players will only be able to change their pet's appearance once, and if they want to change it again, they will have to buy one from the shop.

In the tutorial video Fortnite have shared for sidekicks, the prices shown in the shop are set at around 1,200 - 1,500 Vbucks - the games currency, which can cost real money to buy.

Some players have recently reported that they have received a feedback survey in Fortnite asking them: "How do you feel about having to purchase an additional copy of the same sidekick if you want to customise your sidekick with different features?"

As the sidekicks have not yet been added to the store, this means that things could change before they are launched.

Do you play Fortnite? What do you think about the new sidekicks? Let us know in the comments...