The Fortnite update v40.20 is one of the biggest updates of April 2026, bringing a mix of gameplay changes, new content, and potential collaborations that players have been waiting for. With Fortnite update v40.20 confirmed to include downtime, loot pool adjustments, and multiple mode updates, this patch is shaping up to impact Battle Royale, Zero Build, Reload, and Festival in a big way.
If you are looking for a full breakdown of Fortnite update v40.20, including downtime, leaks, and confirmed changes, this guide covers everything you need to know.
The Fortnite update v40.20 patch notes include new gameplay changes, downtime details, and updates across multiple modes.
Fortnite Update v40.20 Downtime Start Time
Fortnite update v40.20 downtime is scheduled to begin at the usual early morning window, following Epic Games’ standard update cycle.
- Start Time: 4:00 AM ET
- UK Time: 9:00 AM BST
- Expected Duration: 2 to 3 hours
During this period, Fortnite servers will be offline across all platforms while the update is deployed.
If you are waiting to jump back in as soon as possible, you can also check our full server tracker in our Fortnite servers down today guide.
What’s New in Fortnite Update v40.20
Fortnite update v40.20 includes a wide range of updates across multiple game modes. While not everything is officially confirmed yet, there are several expected features based on early patch data and reliable patterns from previous updates.
Gameplay and Mode Updates
- New Reload update and loot pool changes
- Blitz mode updates
- Map changes for Battle Royale and Zero Build
- New weapons and items added
- Unvaulted weapons returning to the game
These gameplay changes are likely to affect how matches play out, especially in competitive and ranked environments.
New Reload Map: Elite Stronghold
One of the biggest additions in update v40.20 is the new Reload map known as Elite Stronghold.
- Early Access: April 18 (Elite+ players)
- Full Release: April 20
This new map is expected to introduce tighter combat zones and faster-paced gameplay, making Reload mode even more aggressive and competitive.
If you play Reload regularly, this is one of the most important changes in Fortnite update v40.20.
Fortnite Reload Map Elite Stronghold: Release Date, Early Access and What to Expect
Fortnite Update v40.20 Leaks and Rumours
As with most major updates, Fortnite update v40.20 has a number of leaks circulating. These should always be treated as unconfirmed until officially announced by Epic Games.
Potential Collaborations
- Fortnite Festival headliner update
- Possible music-themed content and skins
- Ninjago Wave 2
- WWE collaboration featuring new skins
New Skins
- Liv Morgan
- Steve Austin
- Sommerset
- Reddysh
- Moxie
There are also mentions of new cosmetic styles, including alternate character variations and themed accessories.
For a full list of all leaked skins and collaborations, check out our Fortnite v40.20 leaks guide.
Is Fortnite Save the World Free in v40.20
One of the biggest talking points around Fortnite update v40.20 is whether Save the World will become free to play.
While this has not been officially confirmed, it continues to appear in discussions around the update. If it does happen, it would be one of the most significant changes Fortnite has seen in years.
We break this down fully in our dedicated Is Fortnite Save the World free guide, including what it means for new and existing players.
Wanting to check out the latest V-Buck Missions – head over to Save The World DB for a daily update
Fortnite Festival and Mode Changes
Fortnite update v40.20 is also expected to bring updates to Festival and other modes.
Possible changes include:
- New Festival content and music tracks
- Updates to existing Festival modes
- Additional gameplay features and improvements
Some reports have suggested removals or changes to certain modes, but these should be treated as speculation until confirmed.
Fortnite Festival Season 14 featuring Laufey is also part of this update, introducing new performance features and rewards, which you can explore in full here.
Other Changes in Fortnite Update v40.20
In addition to major gameplay updates, Fortnite update v40.20 is expected to include:
- New Item Shop updates and bundles
- New emotes, cosmetics, and packs
- V-Bucks quest pack additions
- LEGO Fortnite updates
- New side content such as pets or companions
- UI updates and Item Shop changes
These smaller updates often have a big impact on the overall player experience, especially for cosmetic collectors.
Why Fortnite Update v40.20 Matters
Fortnite update v40.20 is not just another routine patch. It brings together gameplay updates, potential collaborations, and major mode changes that could shape the direction of Fortnite moving forward.
With updates across Battle Royale, Reload, Festival, and Save the World, this patch touches nearly every part of the game.
What to Expect Next After Fortnite Update v40.20
Following Fortnite update v40.20, players can expect:
- Additional content updates in the same patch cycle
- New events tied to collaborations
- Balance updates based on player feedback
- Continued expansion of Reload and Festival modes
Keeping up with Fortnite updates like v40.20 is key if you want to stay competitive and make the most of new content as it releases.
As more Fortnite update v40.20 patch notes are confirmed, this guide will be updated with the latest information.
Stay Updated on Fortnite Update v40.20
Fortnite update v40.20 is one of the most important updates of April 2026, and there is a lot to take in across gameplay, modes, and potential content drops.
Make sure to check back regularly as more details are confirmed, especially once full patch notes are released and servers go live again.
For more Fortnite guides like this, including events, modes, and tips, head over to our full Fortnite Guides Hub.
