A new update is being released this week and Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite servers will be shutting down for a short time. Details regarding the new Fortnite patch remains vague but there is one big change expected for the game. This is due to the end of Fortnite Chapter 2 Season 1 being scheduled for around February 20, 2020. However, there’s still a chance that today’s update will provide some great tweaks and changes to the game on PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch and Mobile.
WHEN IS FORTNITE SHUTTING DOWN TODAY?
Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite servers will be shutting down on February 5, 2020.
This is to make way for a new update, and maintenance is expected to last at least an hour.
Fortnite Downtime will start at around 9am, GMT, but fans may start to be kicked out of games sooner.
Hey, everyone, v11.50 launches tomorrow. Downtime for the patch begins at 4 AM ET (0900 UTC),” a message from Epic Games explains.
“Stay tuned for updates when downtime ends.”
This last reference suggests that new patch notes will be shared soon after Fortnite has been updated on all platforms.
The big change coming with the next update is the transition of Fortnite to the Unreal Engine Chaos physics system.
While the rollout of this new system will start with today’s update, it doesn’t sound like everyone will see differences straight away.
Testing will begin this week for the new changes and this might mean that the new Fortnite update this week will be bigger than usual.
“Beginning with the release of the 11.50 update in early February, Fortnite will be moving to Unreal Engine’s Chaos physics system,” a message from Epic Games confirms.
“At launch, the goal is to ensure that Fortnite still feels like Fortnite. Along the way there will be some bumps, so we’re starting tests with a small group of players. We’ll also closely monitor feedback and make improvements over time.
“With the addition of the 11.50 update, Chapter 2 – Season 2 is now expected to launch Thursday, February 20. Chapter 2 – Season 2 will feature XXX with multiple XXX. We can’t brief you on all of next Season’s secrets just yet.
“Before the Season ends, we’ll have additional Overtime Challenges and a new two-week event. Stay tuned to Fortnite social channels for more details.”
So fans can expect to see some notable changes before the start of Fortnite Chapter 2 Season 2, which is scheduled for closer to the end of the month.