Epic Games is set to take Fortnite offline today, April 15, 2025, for scheduled maintenance and the deployment of a hotfix aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. This brief downtime will introduce players to the much-anticipated Slurp Rush map, inspired by Chapter 2, along with several vaulted weapons that fans have longed to see return. Although downtime is always a source of frustration for players, the upcoming update promises to revitalize gameplay with exciting new content.
The Fortnite servers will officially go offline at 6 AM ET (11 AM BST). Players should be aware that matchmaking will be disabled 30 minutes prior, at 5:30 AM ET, to allow time for them to finish their active matches. While Epic Games has not specified the exact duration of the downtime, it typically lasts around two hours, suggesting that players can expect to be back in the game by 8 AM ET (1 PM BST). This downtime will affect all platforms, including consoles, PC, and mobile devices.
In addition to the server maintenance, Epic Online Services will also undergo maintenance for up to seven hours, potentially causing issues with invites, lobbies, and peer-to-peer communication even after the servers are back online. Players are encouraged to prepare for the downtime by completing ongoing matches, claiming Battle Pass rewards, and finishing any time-sensitive quests before the servers go offline.
The highlight of this update is the introduction of the Slurp Rush map to the Reload mode. This new map will feature eight classic Chapter 2 locations, including fan-favorites like Slurpy Swamp and Steamy Stacks, all condensed into a fast-paced and chaotic experience. The Slurp Rush map will allow players to enjoy unlimited Slurp mechanics, enhancing the gameplay with new strategic possibilities while also delivering a healthy dose of nostalgia for long-time fans.
Moreover, the update will see the return of several vaulted weapons, including the Combat Shotgun and the Mammoth Pistol. These additions are expected to complement the recent v34.30 update, which introduced Sabrina Carpenter's Festival Pass and collaborations with Adventure Time. Players should note that while the downtime may disrupt their playtime, the new map and weapon un-vaultings will provide a fresh and engaging experience once the servers are back up.
As Fortnite continues to evolve, this update represents a significant step in keeping the game dynamic and engaging for its players. Since its launch in 2017, Fortnite has become one of the most financially successful and culturally impactful video games, reportedly generating over $9 billion in revenue within its first two years. The game has also made a mark in the eSports scene, achieving a peak viewership of 809,000 at its global championship in 2024.
For real-time updates on the server's availability, players can follow the official Fortnite Status account on X. While Epic Games has not announced any compensation for the downtime, they have been known to offer bonus XP to players in the past, providing a silver lining to the temporary disruption.
In summary, players should brace themselves for a brief but impactful downtime as Fortnite gears up for the Slurp Rush update. With the nostalgic return of classic locations and weapons, players can look forward to an exciting new chapter in their Fortnite journey. Make sure to finish any active matches and claim your rewards before the servers go offline at 6 AM ET.
