Fortnite continues to dominate the battle royale world with its unique mix of building mechanics, fun cosmetics, and constant events. One of the latest free cosmetic rewards catching everyone’s eye is the De-Rezz De-Stroyer Pickaxe. What makes this item special isn’t just its sharp, pixelated design but the fact that it can be unlocked completely free—as long as you complete the required challenges within the limited event window.
If you’re hunting for a full guide that breaks down how to unlock it, strategies for completing the tasks quickly, and answers to common questions, you’ve come to the right place. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to claim this free Fortnite cosmetic before it disappears from the reward pool.
What Is the De-Rezz De-Stroyer Pickaxe?
The De-Rezz De-Stroyer is a rare cosmetic harvesting tool introduced in Fortnite with Update v31.20. Unlike most pickaxes that cost V-Bucks or appear in special bundles, this one can be earned completely free.
Key facts about the pickaxe:
- 🎮 Theme: A reskin of Fortnite’s classic default pickaxe with a retro-digital aesthetic. Its pixelated “De-Rezz” design makes it look straight out of a glitchy video game world.
- ⭐ Rarity: Rare. This is not just another default model—it has its own animations and vibe.
- 🕒 Availability: Time-limited. You’ll only be able to unlock it during its promotional window. Once the event ends, there’s no guarantee Epic Games will bring it back.
Why Is It Worth Unlocking?
Free cosmetics in Fortnite are always a good deal, but the De-Rezz De-Stroyer stands out for several reasons:
- Completely Free: Unlike most cosmetics that require grinding Battle Pass tiers or spending real money, this one just requires gameplay.
- Unique Look: The glitch-pixel effect makes it a standout tool compared to other freebie cosmetics.
- Bragging Rights: Since it’s time-limited, players who miss it may never get another chance. Unlocking it now ensures you’ll own a rare piece of Fortnite history.
- Great for Collectors: If you love stacking your locker with unique cosmetics, this is a must-grab.
How to Unlock the De-Rezz De-Stroyer Pickaxe
Epic Games has made it possible to earn the pickaxe in two different ways. You don’t need to complete both—just choose whichever method works best for you.
Method 1: Win Matches in the “Reload” Game Mode
- Requirement: Win 2 matches in Reload.
- Important Note: These wins do not need to be Crowned Victories. Regular wins count.
- How it works: Play Reload, queue into lobbies, and secure two victories. Once you have them, the pickaxe will be added to your account automatically.
Method 2: Level Up Your Account
- Requirement: Gain 10 account levels in any Fortnite mode.
- How it works: Complete quests, earn XP, and simply grind through your favorite game modes. Once you increase your account by 10 levels, the pickaxe unlocks.
This second method is generally easier for casual players, since it doesn’t require winning matches—just steady progression.
Which Method Should You Choose?
- If you’re confident in your combat skills and have friends to squad up with → go for Method 1 (wins in Reload).
- If you prefer a more relaxed grind without relying on competitive matches → go for Method 2 (gain 10 levels).
- Pro tip: Work on both simultaneously. Play Reload matches while also completing quests. This way, if one takes too long, the other ensures progress.
Tips to Unlock the Pickaxe Faster
If you want to maximize your chances of unlocking the De-Rezz De-Stroyer quickly, follow these strategies:
1. Focus on High-XP Quests
- Weekly quests often give 20,000–35,000 XP each.
- Event or seasonal quests sometimes go even higher.
- Prioritize these over daily quests to hit 10 levels faster.
2. Stack Daily and Weekly Challenges
- Complete dailies for quick XP boosts.
- Knock out weekly challenges at the same time.
- Combining both pushes you up account levels efficiently.
3. Switch Between Game Modes
- Don’t grind one mode endlessly—try different ones like Battle Royale, Zero Build, or Festival.
- Some modes are less sweaty and still provide the XP you need.
4. Reload Strategy (for the win method)
- Play Reload with friends instead of randoms—it’s easier to coordinate.
- Stick together as a squad. Don’t split up unnecessarily.
- Memorize the map: knowing weapon spawns and choke points gives you an edge.
5. Don’t Ignore Limited-Time Events
- Epic often runs mini-events alongside updates. These usually offer bonus XP and can shave hours off your grind.
Deadline: Don’t Miss Out
The De-Rezz De-Stroyer is not permanent. It’s available only for a limited time during Fortnite’s v31.20 cycle.
- Once the promotional window closes, you won’t be able to claim it anymore.
- Make sure your game is updated to v31.20 or later, or the item won’t show up in your account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do wins in Reload have to be Crowned Wins?
No. Any normal win counts. Crowned wins are not required.
2. What if I already leveled up before the event started?
You need to gain new levels after the update. Levels earned prior don’t count.
3. How long does it take to level up 10 times?
It depends on how much you play. With consistent quest grinding, many players can hit 10 levels in 2–3 days.
4. What happens if my vehicle (Reload win attempt) gets destroyed mid-game?
Nothing special—just respawn or re-queue. You don’t lose progress; you just need the wins.
5. Why didn’t my pickaxe unlock after meeting requirements?
Sometimes Epic delays cosmetic distribution. Wait a few hours or restart your game. If still missing, check official channels for bug updates.
6. Can I unlock it through both methods?
Yes, you can complete both. But since the pickaxe is a single item, you won’t receive it twice—it just ensures you don’t miss out.
Why Epic Gives Out Free Rewards
Many players wonder why Epic releases free cosmetics like the De-Rezz De-Stroyer. The reasons include:
- Player Engagement: Free rewards motivate players to log in and keep playing.
- Event Promotion: Items tied to updates (like v31.20) create buzz and excitement.
- Fairness for Casuals: Not everyone buys V-Bucks, so free items give all players something to work toward.
- Showcase New Modes: The Reload win requirement encourages players to try new modes Epic is promoting.
Advanced Grinding Strategy
If you’re serious about unlocking the pickaxe as quickly as possible, here’s a step-by-step plan combining both methods:
- Log in Daily: Complete daily quests for quick XP.
- Prioritize Weekly Quests: Knock these out ASAP—they yield the biggest XP chunks.
- Switch Modes Frequently: Rotate between Battle Royale, Festival, and Creative for steady XP.
- Play Reload with Friends: While grinding quests, queue into Reload. Go for wins. Even if you don’t win, you still earn XP.
- Track Progress: Check your account level in the lobby menu. Don’t stop until you hit +10 levels or secure two Reload victories.
By following this plan, most players should unlock the pickaxe within a few play sessions.
Final Thoughts
The De-Rezz De-Stroyer Pickaxe in Fortnite is one of the coolest free cosmetics released in recent updates. With its glitchy, pixelated theme and rare status, it’s a must-have for collectors and casual players alike.
You only need to complete two Reload wins or gain 10 account levels to unlock it. Whether you prefer competitive matches or steady quest grinding, both methods are achievable. Just remember—it’s only available for a limited time.
So don’t wait. Log in, start leveling up or winning matches, and claim your De-Rezz De-Stroyer before the opportunity disappears.
✅ Pro Tip: If you want to stand out in lobbies, combine the De-Rezz De-Stroyer with other glitch/pixel-themed skins for a matching loadout.
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