Shohei Ohtani Makes History as the First MLB Player in Fortnite
A Global Baseball Superstar Steps into the World of Gaming
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ sensational slugger and last year’s National League MVP, is a name that resonates with baseball fans worldwide. Known for his incredible skills on the field, Ohtani is now breaking barriers by becoming the first MLB player to enter the world of Fortnite. This groundbreaking collaboration marks a significant moment where sports and gaming intersect, offering fans a unique way to celebrate their hero.
Exclusive Ohtani Skins and Cosmetics Arrive in Fortnite
Starting March 17, which coincides with Ohtani’s uniform number, Epic Games will introduce two special bundles featuring the baseball star. The first bundle showcases Ohtani in his iconic Dodgers uniform, available in both home and away colors, along with a Lego-style design. This bundle includes a Decoy Back Bling, a bobblehead modeled after Ohtani’s dog, and a Trusty Two-Way Pickaxe. The second bundle depicts Ohtani in a striking samurai outfit, complete with a Samurai Screamer Back Bling that ignites after defeating an opponent and a Baseball Batana Pickaxe.
New Emotes and Quests Add to the Fun
Epic Games isn’t stopping at skins; they’re also releasing new emotes called "Doggy Dingers" and "Hey Batter Batter," allowing players to bring Ohtani’s spirit into their gameplay. Additionally, starting March 18, players can participate in a series of exclusive quests that run through the end of Chapter 6, Season 2. These quests offer exciting challenges, such as finishing 3 matches in the top 17, eliminating players from a distance, and more, with rewards of XP to unlock further items in the Battle Pass.
The Shohei Ohtani Cup Tournament
For competitive players, Epic Games is hosting the Shohei Ohtani Cup on March 15. This event features single-player battle royale matches across a three-hour window per region, with participants earning points based on their performance. The top scorers will have the exclusive opportunity to unlock the Shohei Ohtani Samurai skin early. To join, players need an account level of at least 50 and two-factor authentication enabled.
Pricing and Accessibility
While specific prices for the skins and emotes haven’t been confirmed, based on typical Fortnite pricing, skins may range from $9 to $11, while emotes, pickaxes, and back bling could cost between 200 to 500 V-Bucks each. Bundles, which include multiple cosmetics, might fall between 1,500 to 2,000 V-Bucks, offering a comprehensive collection for Ohtani fans.
A Legendary Crossover Celebrating Ohtani’s Legacy
Shohei Ohtani’s inclusion in Fortnite is a testament to his impact on baseball and his global appeal. This collaboration not only delights fans but also sets a new standard for athlete-gaming crossovers. As Ohtani’s legacy grows, this Fortnite event ensures his presence extends beyond the diamond, cementing his status as a cultural icon in both sports and gaming.
