Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, is set to make his grand debut as part of the iconic Fortnite franchise, much to the excitement of fans worldwide. Following weeks of speculation fueled by leaks and leaks, Epic Games has confirmed the launch date for Messi's Fortnite skin and accompanying cosmetics.
Mark your calendar—Messi's Fortnite skin will be available from December 13 at 7 PM ET (midnight GMT on December 14). This release is not just any skin; it marks the intersection of sports and gaming, offering players the chance to navigate the battlefield as one of football's greatest icons.
According to prominent Fortnite leaker HYPEX, the collaboration will feature two unique skins for Messi: the "Lionel Messi" and the "Streetwear Spark Messi". The Lionel Messi skin will mimic his appearance wearing Argentina's black away kit, complete with the captain's armband. Meanwhile, the Streetwear Spark Messi skin introduces the footballer sporting casual attire—jeans and a hoodie with the pink number 10, reminiscent of his time at Inter Miami. Both skins are crafted with reactive elements, making Messi's movements all the more engaging during gameplay.
The Fortnite Item Shop will offer these skins as part of individual purchases or as part of the Messi bundle, priced at 2,800 V-Bucks. The breakdown of each item is as follows:
- Lionel Messi Outfit with the Number 10 Back Bling—1,800 V-Bucks
- Streetwear Spark Messi Outfit with Portable Playmaker Back Bling—1,500 V-Bucks
- Fancy Futbol Pickaxe—800 V-Bucks
- Goated Glaive Pickaxe—800 V-Bucks
- The Mane Event Emote (Built-In)—400 V-Bucks
- #1 Fan Llama Emote—400 V-Bucks
Epic Games has also revealed the mechanics behind the Mane Event emote, which allows Messi to transform between his iconic on-pitch look and his "inner champion" persona as depicted by the Stealth Lion Messi and Gold Lion Messi outfits.
Adding to the excitement, Messi expressed his thoughts on being included within the game: "It's amazing to see myself represented in Fortnite. Growing up, I never imagined something like this would be possible. Soccer has always been about joy and connection, and now fans can experience it through my own outfits in a way beyond the field. I hope they have fun!" This statement captures Messi's enthusiasm for this innovative crossover.
This venture isn't unique, as Fortnite has previously featured sports icons, including Neymar Jr., Harry Kane, and Marco Reus. Messi’s inclusion enhances Fortnite's diverse cast, acknowledging the seamless interaction between sports culture and gaming entertainment. With over 100 million views of initial leaks surrounding this collaboration, it signifies how much anticipation exists for Messi's Fortnite skin.
Fortnite fans are encouraged to hurry, as the availability of the Messi skins and related items is limited. Be sure to check the Fortnite Item Shop regularly—you never know when they might be withdrawn from sale!
This collaboration exemplifies how video games can act as cultural touchstones, bridging athletes and entertainment across diverse platforms. So gear up, gather those V-Bucks, and make the most of this unique opportunity to play as one of the greatest athletes of our time!