Big Fortnite 8.20 Update Changes
The Baller
Today’s Fortnite v8.20 update actually made quite a number of changes. While some were reasonably small or insignificant, such as the changes to the Infantry Rifle –get outta here Infantry Rifle, nobody likes you–Â there were a handful of rather crucial changes that all Fortnite players should be aware of.
First off are the changes to the latest vehicle to hit Fortnite, the Baller. The change implemented in this update isn’t quite as major as what’s to come (more on that later) but it’s still worth noting if you’ve been as much of a fan of messing around in this vehicle as we have.
Unfortunately, as of the 8.20 update, players will no longer be able to deal damage by propelling themselves into or otherwise colliding with enemies. The knockback from colliding with another player is the same, but there’s no longer the opportunity to humiliate your opponent with the bouncy sphere.
The Baller buffs don’t stop there either. As of the v8.30 update due to likely drop next week, all glass areas of the Baller will no longer act as a shield to incoming fire. Any non-glass parts will remain the same, but considering the entire thing is pretty much glass, that’s not going to do a whole lot.
Kinda questions the point of its health now, but we’ll get the full picture next week.
Big Fortnite 8.20 Update Changes
Material Changes
As you may recall, back in update v7.40, Epic introduced some pretty major changes into the mechanics of core game modes in Fortnite. Namely, those seen in the competitive modes Epic has been playing around with, such as a lower material cap of 500, a faster harvest rate, and 50 material drops from Eliminations.
Turns out that Epic hasn’t been happy with the way these changes (along with some others we’ll get to later) have affected the way games play out. As such, these changes have been reverted. That means you’ll now be able to carry up to 999 materials, but you’ll be harvesting less from a tree, rock, or other structure.
Oh, and there’s no longer a cap on what materials you get from an eliminated enemy. It’ll be their full stacks.
Big Fortnite 8.20 Update Changes
Health and Shield from Kills
Similarly, Epic has done a 180 on the health and shield changes it implemented in the same v7.40 update as the materials. As part of that update, players received 50 health/ shield (health prioritized) per elimination.
Again, this was something that had been implemented into Fortnite’s competitive modes, and Epic wanted to test it in all core modes.
Whether you liked it or not, Epic has opted to revert the health and shield buff for eliminations in the Fortnite v8.20 update. Epic cited “an unhealthy level of aggressive play, diminishing other viable strategies” for reverting both this and the material changes previously mentioned.
Big Fortnite 8.20 Update Changes
Arena Competitive Game Modes
Up until now, Epic had been hosting various competitive tournaments during set dates and certain times for players to put their skills to the test. While this was giving players a taste of what to expect in competitive, not everyone’s schedules always line up perfectly with when these tournaments or cups are being hosted.
To remedy this and make competitive play more accessible for all, Epic has introduced the Arena Solo and Duos modes. Performing well and playing generally awards ‘Hype’ which will allow you to advance to higher leagues, in turn unlocking exclusive tournaments for you to take part in.
As Hype is used to determine which leagues and divisions within those leagues you’re in, it also aims to ensure you’re playing with people of a similar skill level. And for those disappointed about the reversions on the materials and health/ shield on elimination, all of that goodness can be found within these new competitive modes. That’s the best of both worlds right there.
The Arena game modes will use the Bus Fare mechanic to also help determine where you place. The higher the division in that league, the more Bus Fare you’re required to cough up each game. This puts pressure on players to play aggressively and make the most of each game.
Need a lowdown on Bus Fare? Check out our thorough explanation here.
Updated: Mar 27, 2019 10:42 am