I have to protect Fortnite’s sprites at all costs

Sprites are new items/creatures that have been added Fortnite as part of Sunday’s Chapter 6 Season 1: Hunters update. They wander around the map, and when you see one you can pick it up and use it, with each type giving you a different special power. For example, the wind sprite creates a gust of wind that blows your player into the air, while the blue shield sprite restores your shield.

The creatures have simple designs. It looks like the developers gave Squishmallow legs and turned them into cute cartoons. (The sky almost looks like a walking fuzzy tooth with a face.) They have large, emotional eyes and faces that respond to the environment around them. If you put one down, he will smile, but if you run with one under your character’s arm, he will cry.

I just love the different ways you can communicate with them. You can offer them at a shrine for rewards and watch them harness a divine power. You can wear them as Back Bling. If you have one in the storm, the little creature will get angry and throw punches at the sky.

I certainly understand why so many people online are already obsessed with it. My TikTok feed is already littered with videos highlighting fun moments with the sprites.

While these creatures certainly have practical value – offering them at a shrine will net you all kinds of useful items – I mostly appreciate them for how cute they are. Every time I see one hopping, I can’t help but smile.