Fortnite Down: Matchmaking Disabled for Fortnitemares Update
Epic Games is pulling Fortnite servers offline to launch the massive Fortnitemares v35.10 patch. Here is what to expect from the downtime.
The Spooky Season Begins with Scheduled Downtime
Late-night Fortnite sessions are coming to an abrupt halt. If you tried to queue up for a battle royale match recently, you probably noticed the matchmaking button is completely greyed out. Don’t panic. Your internet is fine. Epic Games is taking the servers offline to deploy the highly anticipated v35.10 patch. This update officially ushers in Fortnitemares, the game’s massive annual Halloween celebration.
As with all major updates, developers disable matchmaking roughly 30 minutes before the actual downtime begins. This prevents players from getting booted mid-match when the servers go dark. Matchmaking went offline at 3:30 AM ET, with the servers shutting down entirely at 4:00 AM ET. If you are waiting to jump back onto the island, you will need some patience.
How Long Will Fortnite Be Offline?
Server maintenance for major seasonal updates usually takes a bit longer than standard weekly patches. Gamers should expect the servers to remain offline for at least three to four hours. During this window, you won’t be able to log in, access your locker, or browse the item shop. The game client will also require a sizable download across all platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Epic Games has not announced an exact time for the servers to return, but historically, they bounce back online around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM ET. Keep an eye on the official Fortnite Status social media accounts for real-time progress updates.
What to Expect from Fortnitemares v35.10
Once the update is live, the island will look drastically different. Fortnitemares always brings a dramatic shift to the game. Rumors point to heavy fog rolling across the map, altering visibility and making matches much more tense. Several points of interest are expected to get creepy makeovers, complete with spooky decorations, haunted chests, and perhaps a few jump scares.
The loot pool is also getting a major shakeup. Classic seasonal weapons are highly likely to return to active duty. Here is what players can expect to find in chests and ground loot:
- The Pumpkin Launcher: The iconic rocket launcher that shoots screaming explosive jack-o’-lanterns.
- Witch Brooms: A highly mobile item that lets you launch into the sky and glide away from danger.
- Wood Stake Shotgun: A high-damage weapon specifically designed to take down monsters.
- Sanguine Candy: Consumables that offer quick health boosts and speed buffs.
The Return of Horde Rush
For players who prefer cooperative play over competitive matches, the fan-favorite Horde Rush mode is expected to make its grand return. This PvE mode tasks teams of four with surviving waves of cube monsters while moving across the map. It is fast, chaotic, and incredibly fun. Completing specific Horde Rush challenges during the event will unlock free cosmetic rewards, including loading screens, weapon wraps, and back blings.
New Halloween Skins and Crossovers
Of course, it wouldn’t be Fortnitemares without a fresh batch of terrifying skins. Epic Games has a reputation for securing massive collaborations for this event. Dataminers have hinted at several classic horror movie villains and pop culture icons making their way to the item shop over the next few weeks. Whether you are looking for classic slasher villains or spooky spins on existing Fortnite characters, the shop will be packed with new options.
Make sure your device has plenty of storage space available for the v35.10 patch. Once the download finishes and the servers are live, you can dive straight into the haunt.
