Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite’s Pokémon-like Sprites will remain in Chapter 7 Season 4, Override, rather than disappearing with the current season. The decision matters because the collectible creatures have proved popular and are credited with helping to increase player numbers, signalling that Epic sees them as a longer-term feature.

Override launches on 20 August and is expected to focus on gaming-themed collaborations, with datamined posters suggesting Sonic the Hedgehog, Persona, Tetris and Pac-Man. The season will add second-generation Sprites, a social Sprite Garden display area, and five community-designed creatures; their abilities include extra ammunition, enemy-revealing vision and improved swimming.