How to change character in Fortnite – equipping skins in four steps

How to change character in Fortnite – equipping skins in four steps
Asmir Pekmic Updated on by

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Fortnite’s different character skins have long been one of the most iconic aspects of the game. Whether it’s original characters or crossovers with some of the most popular franchises around, it seems like everyone has their own favourite characters to use in Fortnite, no matter what game modes they’re playing.

So if you’re just getting started with the game and looking to get some character skins of your own to use, you’ll want to know how to change character to equip them. That’s why we’ve put together a quick guide to explain what you need to know to do just that.

Fortnite how to change character: A player's Fortnite locker with the Alan Wake skin equipped.
Click the top left tile in the Character tab to select the skin you want to equip. Image captured by VideoGamer

How to equip character skins in Fortnite

Once you have at least one character in your Fortnite locker, you need to follow these steps to change it on PC, mobile, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch:

  • Go to your locker by clicking on the Locker tab from Fortnite’s main menu
  • Click on the Outfit icon, which should be the first option on your screen. It should look like the t-shirt icon
  • Choose a new Fortnite character you want to use out of your available outfits. You can also change your character’s gender this way. There are male, female and a couple of non-binary skins
  • Click on the Equip button

You can also change all the other aspects of your Fortnite character too. You may choose a different back bling, pickaxe, glider, and skydiving contrail. Additionally, the Locker allows you to pick a couple of favorite emotes for quick use, as well as wraps, lobby tracks, and loading screens.

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Not play to win

Fortnite skins are all purely cosmetic and don’t give you any actual buffs in-game. You’ll have to rely on your own skill for that.

Keep in mind that if you don’t equip anything, you will be a default character. You also cannot equip outfits you don’t have. For example, even though there is a Mandalorian skin, you can’t use it unless you already have it unlocked.

Fortnite how to change character: The Fortnite Item Shop showing the Zuko and Katara bundle for sale.
The easiest way to get new character skins is buying them from the Item Shop. Image captured by VideoGamer

How to get more characters in Fortnite

There are a few ways that you can get new character skins in Fortnite. Firstly, you can buy skins directly from the Item Shop, unlock them from the Battle Pass, or have them gifted to you. You can also occasionally get some free Fortnite skins. These free skins are typically available for a limited time, so make sure to obtain them before they expire.

Lastly, you can get a bunch of free skins from completing the current Battle Pass. You’ll need to purchase it first and then level up in-game, but if you’re someone who plays a lot of Fortnite, then this is probably the most effective way to get a number of skins quickly.

Changing Fortnite character – FAQ

How do you get new characters in Fortnite?

You can obtain Fortnite characters mostly from the Item Shop. They cost anywhere from 800 to 2,000 V-Bucks. You may also purchase bundles that contain multiple cosmetic items and usually give you a bang for the buck.

Can I get Fortnite characters for free?

You may get free Fortnite characters from time to time. Epic Games releases them every few months, so keep an eye on these skins. Some in-game events, such as the Winterfest, come with many free cosmetic items, including skins.

Can I create my own skin in Fortnite?

Unfortunately, you cannot create your own Fortnite skin at the moment. However, Epic Games teased this feature in 2022 and could release it soon.