Fortnite is offering a free skin called GHOST Monks, but unlike most freebies, which you can claim by completing in-game challenges or logging in during an event, you unlock GHOST Monks by redeeming a Fortnite Gift Card (a new type of card that adds funds to your Epic Games account). This promotion is part of Epic’s push to replace the old V-Bucks cards with new gift cards, making GHOST Monks an exclusive bonus for players who try out the updated system. In this guide, we’ll explain what makes the GHOST Monks outfit special, how to claim it step-by-step, and why both collectors and everyday players are excited about this spooky sock-monkey skin.
The Design & Lore
The original Monks skin is a quirky sock-monkey outfit, but this version feels darker, with ghostly grey tones and glowing accents.
Fans have speculated that it ties into Fortnite’s long-running GHOST vs SHADOW storyline, or even symbolizes “the return of lost skins” in a way that fits the game’s lore perfectly.
According to YouTube showcases, there are even multiple selectable styles (including a rumored Gold and Galaxy variant). These bonus styles make it even more worth getting early.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim the GHOST Monks Skin Free
Buy the New Fortnite Gift Card (not the older V-Bucks card).
→ This is the key step — only the new Fortnite Gift Card works for the GHOST Monks reward.Redeem the Card on Epic’s Official Site.
→ Go to fortnite.com/vbuckscard or [epicgames.com/fortnite/en-US/redeem].Log in to Your Epic Games Account.
→ Make sure it’s the same one linked to your Fortnite profile.Redeem and Add Funds.
→ Even the lowest card value (as little as $15 / £10) is enough — you’ll get the skin instantly after redemption.Launch Fortnite and Check Your Locker.
→ The GHOST Monks skin should appear automatically in your locker after redeeming.Claim Before It Expires.
→ The promo reportedly ends December 31, 2026, so don’t wait too long if you’re a collector.
It's More Than Just a Freebie
The GHOST Monks skin isn’t just another cosmetic drop, it’s a shift in how Epic is rewarding players. Here’s what makes it different:
First Skin Linked to the New Fortnite Gift Card System.
Epic is phasing out traditional V-Bucks cards, and this skin was created to promote the newer Fortnite Gift Cards, which act as general Epic balance for all their games.Real-World Scarcity.
Players on Reddit have described the hunt for these cards like a mini scavenger hunt — some stores didn’t even have the new stock yet, especially outside big cities.Truly Collectible.
Collectors are already grabbing these cards as keepsakes, since they mark the first ever skin tied to the new system.Future Item Shop Rumors.
According to leakers and community talk, GHOST Monks might eventually appear in the Item Shop, but likely not until after 2027. That means early claimers are getting a genuine head start.
Community Reactions: The “Free” Skin Debate
While it’s called a free skin, players are debating if it really counts as one — since you technically need to buy the gift card first.
Some call it “free with purchase”, others say it’s more of an exclusive reward.
Still, many agree that if you were planning to top up your account anyway, this is one of the best bonuses you can get right now.
A Reddit user summed it up perfectly:
“It’s the first time Epic made me feel like hunting down a card in the real world was part of the challenge.”
Check the full list of the free Fortnite skins on our dedicated page.
