FORTNITE DOWN – UPDATE ONE: Fortnite downtime has begun, with servers taken offline ahead of the release of Fortnite update 11.31.
The latest Fortnite update – patch 11.31 – looks set to bring with it the Winterfest 2019 content.
This includes this year’s version of the 14 Days of Fortnite challenges.
ORIGINAL: As confirmed earlier this week by Epic Games, Fortnite servers are now down.
This was scheduled to happen 9am GMT and server maintenance looks set to last for several hours.
Epic Games warned as much earlier today, telling fans online: “Season’s greetings. v11.31 arrives tomorrow. Downtime begins at 4 AM ET (0900 UTC). Stay tuned for updates when downtime ends.”
The main reason for the new downtime is to launch a big new update for Fortnite Battle Royale.
There will also likely be changes made to Fortnite Save the World, although less about this is known.
The Winterfest event is expected to be available in some capacity across both games, with new skins, challenges and cosmetic items included.
HOW LONG IS FORTNITE DOWN FOR?
For now, it looks Epic could keep servers offline for a maximum of four hours, or until around 1pm, GMT. That’s according to the official Epic Games maintenance site.
For gamers in the United States, that would mean servers staying offline until around 8am, ET.
However, as with past patches, there is a good chance that things will be done before this time.
And that would mean the launch of the new Fortnite update and Winterfest event happening early.
Following this morning’s server downtime, a new update will be available to download on all platforms.
This means making room for a new version of the game on PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch and Mobile.
Patch notes will be shared after this update has gone live, however, it’s unclear when exactly they will be shared.
Here is what Epic has said about what is being planned for the extended Fortnite Chapter 2 run, teasing fans: “With a new year comes new beginnings! Last year we celebrated 14 Days of Fortnite over the holidays,” says Epic.
“This year we’ve got even more content for you to unwrap, including new game features, free rewards and a live experience that you won’t want to miss.
“To prepare for all the new holiday-themed updates, we will be extending Chapter 2’s first season into early February. Get ready for winter.”