How to Get Kizuna AI Skin in Fortnite (March 2026) Complete Guide
Fortnite has made history with its first-ever VTuber collaboration, bringing the legendary Kizuna AI into the battle royale universe. As one of the most influential virtual content creators, Kizuna AI’s arrival in Fortnite has created massive excitement among players worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan of VTubers or simply love collecting unique Fortnite cosmetics, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to get the Kizuna AI skin through both free and paid methods.
Quick Overview: Kizuna AI Fortnite Acquisition Methods
| Method | Cost | Availability | Difficulty | Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KizunaAI Icon Cup | Free | Tournament Only | High (Top placement required) | Main outfit + Wings backbling |
| Item Shop Purchase | 2,000-2,800 V-Bucks | January 16, 2026 | Easy | Complete bundle or individual items |
What’s Included in the Kizuna AI Fortnite Bundle?
Epic Games has gone all out with this collaboration, offering an extensive collection of Kizuna AI-themed cosmetics. Here’s everything you can expect:
Main Skins
- Kizuna AI Skin – 1,500 V-Bucks
- Jersey Kizuna AI Skin – 1,500 V-Bucks
- Both skins include LEGO variants for LEGO Fortnite mode
Accessories & Items
- Kizuna AI’s Wings Backbling – 300 V-Bucks
- Chibi AI-Chan Backbling – 300 V-Bucks
- Lovely Kizuna Pickaxe – 500 V-Bucks
- Lovely Kizuna Backbling – 300 V-Bucks
- Lovely Kizuna Guitar Instrument – 800 V-Bucks
- Voice of Love Pickaxe – 500 V-Bucks
- Voice of Love Backbling – 300 V-Bucks
- Voice of Love Mic Instrument – 500 V-Bucks
- Hello, Morning Emote – 500 V-Bucks
- Wrapped in AI Wrap – 500 V-Bucks
- It’s Kizuna AI Loading Screen – TBA
Complete Bundle Cost: Approximately 2,000-2,800 V-Bucks (based on similar collaborations)
Method 1: Get Kizuna AI Skin Free via Tournament
The KizunaAI Icon Cup offers players a chance to earn the main outfit and Wings backbling completely free, three days before the official shop release.
Tournament Details
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | KizunaAI Icon Cup |
| Date | January 13-14, 2026 (varies by region) |
| Format | Duos (2 players per team) |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Max Matches | 10 games |
| Platforms | All platforms (PC, console, mobile) |
| Free Rewards | Kizuna AI Outfit + Kizuna AI’s Wings Backbling |
Regional Winner Distribution
Only top-performing teams in each region will receive the free cosmetic rewards:
| Region | Number of Winning Teams |
|---|---|
| EU (Europe) | Top 2,350 |
| NAC (North America East) | Top 900 |
| BR (Brazil) | Top 400 |
| NAW (North America West) | Top 400 |
| OCE (Oceania) | Top 250 |
| ASIA | Top 250 |
| ME (Middle East) | Top 250 |
How to Participate in the KizunaAI Icon Cup
- Check Eligibility: You must be at least 13 years old (or minimum age in your country) and have two-factor authentication enabled on your Epic Games account.
- Find a Duo Partner: Since this is a duos tournament, you’ll need a reliable teammate. Communication and coordination are key to success.
- Register for the Tournament: The tournament will appear in the competitive events tab in Fortnite. Make sure to register before the event starts.
- Prepare Strategically:
- Warm up in creative mode
- Discuss landing spots and strategies with your partner
- Ensure both players are comfortable with the current meta
- Compete During the 3-Hour Window: You and your partner have three hours to play up to ten matches. Points are awarded based on:
- Final placement in each match
- Number of eliminations
- Victory Royales
Scoring System
The tournament uses a standard competitive scoring system:
- Higher placement = more points
- Each elimination = additional points
- Victory Royale = bonus points
- Total score determines final ranking
Pro Tips for Tournament Success
- Land in less popular areas initially to avoid early eliminations
- Focus on survival over aggressive plays in early matches
- Communicate constantly with your duo partner
- Play to your strengths – if you’re better at building, play defensively
- Save your best materials for crucial endgame situations
- Watch the kill feed to track remaining players
Method 2: Purchase from Item Shop
If tournament competition isn’t your style or you don’t place high enough, you can purchase the Kizuna AI cosmetics directly from the Fortnite Item Shop.
Official Release Schedule
| Time Zone | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| PT (Pacific Time) | Fri, Jan 16, 2026 at 4:00 PM |
| ET (Eastern Time) | Fri, Jan 16, 2026 at 7:00 PM |
| CET (Central European Time) | Sat, Jan 17, 2026 at 1:00 AM |
| IST (India Standard Time) | Sat, Jan 17, 2026 at 5:30 AM |
| JST (Japan Standard Time) | Sat, Jan 17, 2026 at 9:00 AM |
| AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) | Sat, Jan 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM |
How to Purchase
- Launch Fortnite and navigate to the Item Shop
- Look for the Kizuna AI tab or featured section
- Browse the collection and select items you want
- Purchase with V-Bucks (buy V-Bucks if needed)
- Equip immediately and show off your new cosmetics
Purchase Tips
- Bundle purchases often offer better value than individual items
- Wait for daily reset if you don’t see the items immediately
- Check your V-Bucks balance beforehand
- Consider which items you really want to avoid overspending
KizunaAI Mobile Cup Alternative
For mobile players, there’s a separate tournament option:
Mobile Cup Details
- Format: Solo Blitz
- Date: Same day as main tournament
- Duration: Shorter matches, faster-paced gameplay
- Rewards: Similar cosmetic opportunities
- Eligibility: Mobile platform players only
Mobile-Specific Strategy
- Optimize controls for mobile gameplay
- Practice building on touch screens
- Use gyro aiming if available for better accuracy
- Focus on quick eliminations due to faster storm circles
About Kizuna AI: Fortnite’s First VTuber
Kizuna AI is a pioneer in the VTuber (Virtual YouTuber) world, debuting in 2016 and quickly becoming one of the most recognizable virtual content creators globally. Her collaboration with Fortnite marks a significant milestone, bridging the gap between VTuber culture and mainstream gaming.
Why This Collaboration Matters
- Historical significance: First VTuber in Fortnite
- Cultural crossover: Brings VTuber fandom to battle royale
- Future possibilities: Opens doors for more VTuber collaborations
- Global appeal: Kizuna AI has international fanbase
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tournament Mistakes
- Not practicing enough before the event
- Poor communication with your duo partner
- Playing too aggressively early on
- Ignoring storm circle timing
- Wasting materials on unnecessary builds
Purchase Mistakes
- Buying individual items when bundle is better value
- Not checking V-Bucks balance beforehand
- Waiting too long (collaboration items are limited-time)
- Impulse buying items you won’t use
Platform-Specific Considerations
PC Players
- Optimize settings for competitive performance
- Use keybinds for faster building
- Monitor performance to avoid lag
Console Players
- Use controller settings optimized for building
- Practice aim assist techniques
- Ensure stable connection
Mobile Players
- Use compatible devices for best performance
- Customize HUD layout for comfort
- Consider using controller if supported
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Kizuna AI skin release in Fortnite?
The Kizuna AI bundle releases in the Fortnite Item Shop on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM PT (7:00 PM ET). Tournament participants can get it earlier through the KizunaAI Icon Cup.
How much does the Kizuna AI bundle cost?
Individual items range from 300-1,500 V-Bucks each. The complete bundle is estimated to cost between 2,000-2,800 V-Bucks, offering better value than purchasing items separately.
Can I really get the Kizuna AI skin for free?
Yes! Top-performing players in the KizunaAI Icon Cup tournament receive the main Kizuna AI outfit and Wings backbling completely free. However, competition is fierce with limited winner slots per region.
What if I miss the tournament?
You can still purchase all Kizuna AI cosmetics from the Item Shop when they release on January 16, 2026. Just remember that collaboration items are limited-time and won’t be available forever.
Do I need a partner for the tournament?
Yes, the main KizunaAI Icon Cup requires a duo partner. However, mobile players can participate in the KizunaAI Mobile Cup, which is a solo competition.
Are the Kizuna AI items available on all platforms?
Yes, both the tournament participation and Item Shop purchases are available on all Fortnite platforms including PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Will Kizuna AI items return to the Item Shop later?
While possible, there’s no guarantee collaboration items will return. If you’re interested in these cosmetics, it’s best to acquire them during the initial release period.
Final Thoughts
The Kizuna AI collaboration represents an exciting evolution in Fortnite’s partnership strategy, bringing VTuber culture to the battle royale mainstream. Whether you choose to compete in the tournament for a free skin or purchase from the Item Shop, you’re getting a piece of gaming history.
Remember that tournament spots are limited and competition will be intense, so practice thoroughly if you’re going for the free route. For those who prefer guaranteed acquisition, mark your calendar for January 16, 2026, and ensure you have enough V-Bucks ready.
This collaboration could pave the way for more VTuber partnerships in the future, making early adoption of these cosmetics potentially valuable from a collector’s perspective. Don’t miss your chance to own Fortnite’s first VTuber collaboration!