Fortnite X Borderlands crossover brings Psycho skin, Pandora zone

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Fortnite-X-Borderlands
Think twice about spending 2,000 V-Bucks.
Photo: Epic Games

Fortnite’s newest patch is out, introducing a surprise crossover with popular Gearbox Software franchise Borderlands.

The version 10.20 release brings Psycho and Claptrap cosmetics, a new Rift Zone that resembles the planet Pandora, and themed challenges that unlock free rewards.

And in true Fortnite style, the update also makes a controversial change that many players are already unhappy about.

If you’re a fan of Borderlands (who isn’t?) then this week’s Fortnite update packs plenty of content you’re going to enjoy. I’ll let the sweet teaser video below do the talking.

Yes, that’s Psycho and Claptrap inside Fortnite — and a brand new Rift Zone inspired by Borderlands’ planet Pandora.

Fortnite X Borderlands live until Sept. 10

The Psycho skin complete with Claptrap back bling is available now from the Fortnite item shop, priced at 1,500 V-Bucks. Once you’ve purchased it, it’s yours to keep — even after the crossover ends.

The Borderlands-themed challenges, which will grant you free rewards — including weapon wraps and emotes — are live until September 10, at which point the Pandora zone will disappear.

You’ll find the Pandora zone at the oasis near Paradise Palms. Not only does it look incredibly cool, but it also makes you stronger. Stay in the zone for at least four seconds without taking damage and you’ll begin to generate additional shield.

Protect yourself with a Shield Bubble

Fortnite 10.20 also brings the Shield Bubble to Battle Royale. This brand new item creates a large bubble that protects you from projectiles and explosives.

The Shield Bubble’s emitter has 400 HP and lasts for 30 seconds if it isn’t destroyed early. It’s a rare item that can be found in chests, supply drops, vending machines, and on the floor.

Epic Games has also made another tweak to the B.R.U.T.E. this week. The mechs are now always visible on the map, which makes it easy for everyone to see exactly where they are at all times.

Seriously, Epic?

There are a whole host of other changes and improvements — too many to list here — that you’ll find in the patch notes on the official Fortnite blog. But there are a couple more worth highlighting.

This week’s update inexplicably increases the time between structure placements in Turbo Build mode from 0.05 seconds to 0.15 seconds.

“This is intended to level the playing field regarding ping when it comes to turtling,” Epic says.

It doesn’t sound like a big increase — and it has been 0.15 seconds before — but it makes a big difference if you’re a quick builder. A lot of players are already complaining about the change.

One piece of good news for iPhone 8 owners is that you can now enjoy Fortnite at 60 frames-per-second, like those on iPhone X and later.

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