Fortnite offline for major v42 patch with map changes and new loot

Fortnite’s servers are down for scheduled maintenance ahead of version 42. Epic Games says the game will be back online around midday UK time (7am ET). The update introduces map changes, new weapons and items, new loot, and gameplay tweaks including a “cheat code” feature, plus bug fixes and performance improvements (notably on Nintendo Switch). Players have mixed reactions, with some criticizing a monetization move that gates exclusive content behind gifting a Battle Pass and ongoing complaints about matchmaking and other changes.