Epic Games has launched the highly anticipated v21.20 update for Fortnite, bringing a wave of fresh content and gameplay changes to players across all platforms. The deployment required a brief server downtime, but the new features promise to revitalize the Battle Royale experience during the summer season. This update marks a significant moment with the introduction of a legendary adventurer and powerful new tools for combat and defense, setting the stage for exciting in-game events.
Unlock Indiana Jones & Explore Shuffled Shrines
Fortune and glory await! The iconic adventurer, Indiana Jones, has made his grand entrance into the Fortnite universe. Starting with the update, players can undertake a series of special Battle Pass Quests dedicated to the famed archaeologist. By completing these challenges, fans can unlock the coveted Indiana Jones Outfit along with other thematic items from his collection. To coincide with Indy's arrival, a mysterious new landmark, the Shuffled Shrines, has been discovered on the island. This ancient temple, located just west of The Joneses, offers a fresh point of interest for players to explore, filled with secrets and an architectural style reminiscent of forgotten civilizations. It's the perfect location for players to embark on their own adventure while hunting for loot.
Introducing the Charge SMG: A New Tactical Weapon
The arsenal receives a significant shakeup with the debut of the Charge SMG. This innovative weapon introduces a unique charging mechanic that rewards strategic timing. Found as ground loot, in Chests, Supply Drops, and even from Reality Saplings and sharks, the Charge SMG operates differently from its predecessors. Players must hold down the fire button to initiate a charge. The longer the trigger is held, the more bullets are released in a powerful barrage upon release. A clear on-screen gauge provides visual feedback on the charge level, allowing for tactical decisions: unleash a devastating full charge for maximum impact or a quicker, partial burst for spontaneous encounters. With the arrival of this new weapon, the Combat SMG has been vaulted, making room for this more skill-based alternative.
Defensive Gameplay Enhanced with the Port-A-Fort
Building just got easier for those who prefer a more straightforward defensive approach. The fan-favorite Port-A-Fort item makes a triumphant return to the loot pool. This convenient throwable item can be found on the ground and in Chests. When deployed, it instantly constructs a sturdy fort, providing immediate cover and a high-ground advantage in the heat of battle. This tool is perfect for quick defenses, last-minute rotations, or creating an instant foothold in a chaotic firefight, all without requiring any manual building skills.
Weapon Availability & Competitive Adjustments
While the special Ripsaw Launcher Week event has concluded, the powerful Ripsaw Launcher remains in the game. Players can still find it as ground loot, in Chests, Supply Drops, and at its dedicated location, The Chop Shop. However, its availability has returned to standard supply rates, making it a rarer but still potent find. The update also brings specific changes tailored for the competitive scene:
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❌ The new Charge SMG is not available in competitive playlists.
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✅ The Combat SMG has been vaulted in competitive playlists.
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❌ The Port-A-Fort is not included in competitive playlists.
These adjustments follow recent competitive optimizations, including the removal of Characters and wildlife from those playlists last week to improve overall server performance and competitive integrity.
Bug Fixes and Looking Ahead
The development team has addressed a persistent issue affecting the in-game map. A bug that sometimes caused players' Reality Sapling icons to appear in the wrong location on the Map page has now been fixed, ensuring better navigation and planning. This update solidifies Fortnite's dynamic ecosystem, blending cinematic crossovers with meaningful gameplay evolution. As the summer event kicks off, players have a wealth of new content to master, from unlocking a legendary skin to mastering the rhythm of the new Charge SMG.