Epic Games has added epic and legendary pump shotguns to Fortnite Battle Royale this week.
Its version 6.31 update comes less than a week after one employee promised big shotgun improvements that hope to make the pump more effective in close-range gunfights. Players can also look forward to the brand new Team Rumble limited-time game mode.
Shotguns have been neglected for some time in Battle Royale. They saw big nerfs in season five and almost no tweaks at all throughout most of season six. But that changes today with Fortnite version 6.31.
Shotguns will be much better in Battle Royale
Just as promised, shotguns will now deal at least three pellets’ worth of damage when you hit an opponent — even if only one or two pellets would normally land on your target. This should put an end to dealing just nine damage when you hit an enemy in the head.
What’s more, maximum damage has been increased for the pump shotgun, and range has been reduced. In close-range gunfights, then, it should be much more effective. You just won’t be able to hit an opponent — at least not with much impact — from a distance.
The uncommon pump will now deliver a maximum damage of 80/85, while the rare model will deliver a maximum of 95/100. The new epic and legendary varieties will deliver up to 105/110, and you’ll find them in chests, supply drops, vending machines, and on the floor.
Double-barrel shotguns will be a little more difficult to find from now on; they no longer spawn in floor loot, so you’ll have to find them in chests, supply drops, and elsewhere.
Other weapon changes
This update also makes some alterations to other weapons. Stink bombs can now be found in supply drops, while the mounted turret that was added to Fortnite last week can no longer shoot through its own floor.
Many players would prefer it if the mounted turret was removed altogether, but Epic has made some additional tweaks that should make it less frustrating. It will now be harder to find, and it’s now easier to land shots on players who are using one.
The mounted turret can no longer be repaired, either. So if you shoot one in an effort to destroy it, an opponent is unable to restore its health.
Team Rumble LTM
If you like to play the limited-time game modes each week, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a brand new one in this update. Team Rumble (like Team Deathmatch) lets two teams of 20 battle it out in a bid to be the first to reach 100 kills.
Players will respawn after being eliminated and the match will continue until the score limit is reached. When you respawn, you’ll be equipped with a random type of ammo and a stack of materials. Only uncommon weapons or better are available in this mode.
Download Fortnite 6.31 today!
Fortnite 6.31 is available to download now across all platforms, including iOS. Sadly, it looks like we’ll have to wait until season seven for that snowy map makeover.
