Fortnite returns with new virtual world
Fortnite makes its return with an all-new virtual world after the previous map mysteriously disappeared into a black hole.
Gamers were left unable to play the popular battle royale title, as part of a worldwide event to mark the arrival of Chapter 2.
Fortnite routinely updates the game with new locations and virtual objects for players to use, but this latest move is the most radical in its two-year history, with a completely revamped island featuring 13 new locations.
Those who logged on to Fortnite on Sunday night saw the virtual island where the game takes place hit by a meteor shower before the entire map appeared to be sucked into a black hole during the downtime.
The map is more mountainous than before, featuring landmarks such as a lighthouse. New water gameplay is among the raft of changes, with the ability to swim, fish and use a motorboat.
A fresh selection of weapons is available to users, as well as new hiding spots in haystacks or dumpsters.
Fortnite’s official Twitter account also returned to normal on Tuesday, after it was left with a live stream of the black hole.
The Epic Games-made title – which sees up to 100 competitors battle to be the last player standing – is broken up into seasons which last several months, with the start of each new season marked by in-game events.
The latest showpiece coincides with the end of the game’s 10th season, and follows similar events such as a meteor shower, a rocket launch, and a fight between a giant robot and a monster taking place across the map earlier this year.
Since its initial release in 2017, Fortnite has become one of the world’s most popular video games, attracting more than 100 million players.
Dance moves seen in the game have been replicated by a number of athletes during major global events, including the 2018 Fifa World Cup.
