Epic Games has released a comprehensive status update for Fortnite Ballistic, addressing player feedback and outlining recent changes to weapons, maps, and gameplay modes. The April 22 update highlights shotgun nerfs, Test Grounds format adjustments, and plans to balance the current attacker advantage across all ranked maps.
Shotgun Balance and Test Grounds Changes Already Implemented
On April 9, Epic made significant balance adjustments to shotguns in Fortnite Ballistic, reducing the range of the Hammer Pump Shotgun while decreasing both range and damage for the Frenzy Auto Shotgun. These changes came in response to player feedback about weapon balance in the competitive mode.
The developer also addressed the issue of early leavers in Test Grounds by making two key changes. First, they added the Hammer Fall and Storm Chaser Cove maps to Ranked play, allowing serious players to experience these new environments in a more competitive setting. Second, they shortened Test Grounds matches from best-of-seven to best-of-four format, making incomplete matches less disruptive.
Upcoming Weapon and Map Adjustments Under Consideration
Epic is currently monitoring the Burst Assault Rifle, which some players feel is underpriced relative to its effectiveness. The team is analyzing performance data before making any potential price adjustments to ensure balanced gameplay.
Hammer Fall's interactive gates have also received significant player feedback. While some suggested making the gates alternate (one opening when another closes), Epic notes that Attackers already have a higher win rate on this map. Instead, they're exploring layout changes to improve rotations between sites and potentially speed up lane-to-lane movement.
What's the Current Win Rate Balance in Fortnite Ballistic?
As of April 14, 2025, Epic revealed some interesting statistics about win rates across all ranked maps:
| Map | Attacker Win Rate | Defender Win Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Skyline 10 | 53% | 47% |
| Hammer Fall | 54% | 46% |
| Storm Chaser Cove | 52% | 48% |
The data clearly shows Attackers having a slight advantage across all maps. Epic has committed to addressing this imbalance through both map adjustments and potential core gameplay changes in future updates.
Looking Ahead to v35.10
Players can expect more changes with the upcoming v35.10 update, which will include a refreshed Test Grounds experience. While Epic hasn't revealed specific details, they've hinted at investigating long-term solutions for the early leaver problem in Test Grounds, potentially including gameplay modifications to make these disruptions less impactful.
With Fortnite Ballistic continuing to evolve based on player feedback, the development team appears committed to refining the competitive experience through regular balance adjustments and thoughtful map design improvements.