Epic Games is bringing back another classic pet as a sidekick, and this time it's Dodger from way back in Chapter 1 Season 8. If you're an OG player who grinded that Battle Pass, you're in luck, because you can get the Dodger Sidekick completely free. For everyone else, don't worry, there's still a way to get it later. Here's everything you need to know about unlocking the Dodger sidekick in Fortnite for free.

How to Claim Your Free Dodger Sidekick in Fortnite

Only players who own the original Dodger backbling from the Chapter 1 Season 8 Battle Pass qualify for the free sidekick. This pet was available at Tier 52 of the premium Battle Pass back in 2019, which means you had to be playing Fortnite over seven years ago to have it.

If you weren't around during that season or didn't reach Tier 52 in the Battle Pass, you won't get the free version. If you own the original Dodger backbling, claiming the sidekick is super easy. Here's how to get it:

  1. Launch Fortnite on the account that has the original Dodger backbling.
  2. Check for a notification; You should get a pop-up saying you've received the sidekick.
  3. If no notification appears, go to your Locker.
  4. Filter by Sidekicks to find Dodger in your collection.
Dodger Sidekick Fortnite

The new Dodger Sidekick is way more interactive than the backbling. Sidekicks follow you around the map independently, react to your eliminations, and have their own animations. Other recently released sidekicks are Dart Monkey and the Empress.

How to Get Dodger Sidekick if You Don't Have the Backbling

If you started playing Fortnite after Chapter 1 Season 8, or didn't unlock the original pet, you will need to wait for the sidekick to hit the Item Shop. Epic hasn't announced an exact release date yet, but based on how they've handled other converted backbling, you can actually expect it soon.

When it does arrive in the Item Shop, the Dodger Sidekick will cost around 1,200 to 1,500 V-Bucks. This is the standard price for most sidekicks in Fortnite.

The Dodger Sidekick is a great reward for long-time Fortnite players and a solid purchase option for newer fans who want a classic dog companion. Are you going to get it?