When Fortnite dropped the Plastic Patroller skin back in 2019, OGs and newer players alike instantly saw the vision. A literal living toy soldier styled after those legendary green army men from your childhood? Yeah, Epic Games knew exactly what they were doing. With its slick aesthetics, built-in nostalgia, and even a touch of controversy (more on that below), Plastic Patroller quickly became more than just a cosmetic – it was a conversation starter. Whether you copped it to match your jungle camo vibe or just loved the novelty, one thing’s for sure – this skin still slaps. Let’s deep-dive into what makes Plastic Patroller such a fan-favorite even years later.
Reporting for Duty: How the Plastic Patroller Hit Fortnite
First seen parachuting into Fortnite on June 27, 2019 during Chapter 1, Season 9, Plastic Patroller released as part of the Toy Soldiers set. This drop came bundled with the equally nostalgic Toy Trooper skin and themed wraps like Green Toy, Gray Toy, and Red Plastic.
The design is a full homage to the tiny molded soldiers from old-school toy sets. Glossy, bright, and super stylized, the skin debuted in solid green – a color choice that would ignite one of Fortnite’s biggest cosmetic controversies. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves…
Toybox Ready: Skin Styles & Cosmetics You Can Rock With
Plastic Patroller is a low-cost charmer, classified as an Uncommon tier skin (that’s that green label for 800 V-Bucks) that packs max vibe value.
Selectable Styles
- Green Variant: The OG look, mimicking a real deal plastic army man. Originally praised (and criticized) for helping players go full stealth mode in grassy areas.
- Gray Variant: A sleek, urban upgrade that gives modern military energy. Great if you’re aiming for subtlety over nostalgia.
Both styles come included on purchase and can be swapped any time from your Locker – no Battle Pass unlocks needed.
Curated Set Bonus
- Toy Trooper: A female version with the same molded vibe.
- Wraps: Keep your weapons and vehicles looking like toys too with Green Toy, Gray Toy, or Red Plastic wraps.
Check real-time availability and full bundle deets over at Fortnite.gg.
“Pay to Win”? The Nerf Heard Around the Island
It didn’t take long after launch for players to realize the Green style basically turned you into a walking bush. In jungly or grassy zones, Plastic Patroller turned into near-invisible camo. Was it broken? Some say yes. Epic Games didn’t take long to agree.
Enter Patch v10.10. Epic rolled out a visual update adding mud smears, camo scuffs, and color adjustments to the outfits. Visibility got tweaked to give opponents a fair shot at spotting ambushers.
This caused some serious buzz online, and for once, Epic dropped the W: free refunds without using a refund token. That’s almost unheard of and shows just how controversial the “Plastic Patroller buff” really was.
Loadout Lab: Building the Ultimate Toy Soldier Look
If you’re gonna drop into the Island looking like a toy, you gotta stay committed. Here’s what to pack in your loadout to stay in theme:
Top Loadout Suggestions
- Back Bling: Standard Issue (clean military feel) or Combat Wreath if you’re feeling festive.
- Pickaxe: Tactical Spade or Reaper to keep the military vibes rolling.
- Glider: Carbon or Holographic for a minimalist flair in your descent.
- Wraps: Green Toy, Gray Toy, or Red Plastic – color coded to your skin choice.
Rarity, Rotation & Relevance: How Hard Is It To Snag?
Plastic Patroller isn’t labeled “rare” by Fortnite’s official standards, but it doesn’t show up in the Item Shop often. Usually, you’ll catch it every 45–70 days, with random gaps or bundle options like the Toy Soldier pack rolling in for extra value.
It remains one of the most consistently loved Uncommon skins, often popping up in content creators’ Best Skins rankings. Veterans salute its legacy, and new players still scoop it up for the aesthetics.
Quickfire Q&A: What You Gotta Know
- What is Plastic Patroller? A Fortnite skin styled like a green plastic army man. Released June 27, 2019.
- How much does it cost? 800 V-Bucks solo, or as part of the full Toy Soldiers bundle.
- Does it help with camouflage? Not anymore. It was nerfed for visibility in Patch v10.10.
- What color styles are available? Green (classic army man) and Gray (urban tactical).
- Is it hard to find? It’s not “rare,” but it doesn’t stay in the shop long.
- Can I refund it now? Not unless Epic brings back a tokenless refund window.
- Does it have matching wraps? Yep – Green Toy, Gray Toy, and Red Plastic are all themed for it.
- Should I buy it? 100% yes if you’re into nostalgic cosmetics or toy-themed fits.
Plastic Patroller: Still Saluting the Style
Even years after launch, Plastic Patroller holds its own in Fortnite’s crowded Skin Hall of Fame. With its cheeky theme, loyal fanbase, and affordable price, it’s a go-to choice for players wanting to stand out without shouting too loud.
If you’re building your locker with iconic, mood-heavy skins that bring more than just visual flair, this toy soldier’s reporting for duty.
For more drops, shop rotations, and Fortnite skin deep dives, stay locked on FortniteInsider.gg and Fortnite Tracker.
