Epic Games is back from its summer break, and it’s bringing with it one of the most highly anticipated patches of the season: Fortnite Update 36.20. Set to roll out on July 15, 2025, the update promises new content, performance fixes, surprise collaborations, and even live event teasers that will keep players engaged through the coming weeks.
⛔ Server Downtime: What to Expect
Before diving into the content, players should note that Fortnite servers will go offline at:
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1 a.m. PDT
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4 a.m. EDT
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9 a.m. BST
The downtime is expected to last 2–3 hours, during which Battle Royale, Creative, and Save the World modes will be inaccessible. The temporary shutdown allows Epic Games to install the new patch and ensure smooth performance.
🚀 What’s New in Fortnite Update 36.20?
The update brings game-changing content across multiple areas of Fortnite. From gameplay enhancements to brand collaborations, here's a breakdown of the biggest highlights:
🌐 New Battle Royale Content
Fortnite’s classic mode gets a refresh with new weapons, mechanics, and perhaps a shift in gameplay meta. According to popular leaker Shiina, this update introduces new features that could redefine competitive play.
🏰 New POI: Fortress of Solitude
A brand-new Point of Interest, Fortress of Solitude, is being added to the map. This new area promises unique battles and loot, possibly tied to a superhero collaboration.
🚘 Free Collab Car (Batmobile or Fantasticar?)
Fortnite is no stranger to legendary collaborations—and 36.20 brings yet another. A free collab vehicle is rumored to be included in the update. Speculation points to iconic options like the Batmobile or Fantasticar.
🎁 Free Pickaxe Login Reward
Epic Games is rewarding loyal players who log in post-update with a free pickaxe—a small but appreciated gesture to keep engagement high.
🎶 deadmau5, Emotes & Live Events
Fans of music and digital concerts will be excited by the rumored deadmau5 integration. This could mean:
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New exclusive skins
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Themed emotes
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And possibly a virtual in-game concert
Additionally, files for an OG Rocket Launch live event are being added, hinting at another unforgettable Fortnite experience.
🐛 Bug Fixes and Optimizations
Alongside all the flashy content, Epic is addressing multiple issues that have impacted gameplay in recent weeks:
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Fixes for unexpected crashes and stability issues
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Corrections to visual glitches in characters and environments
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Audio fixes for better immersion
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Improved matchmaking algorithms
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Overall performance boosts across all platforms
🎮 Mode Updates: Blitz Royale & Squid Grounds
Two of Fortnite's popular alternate modes are also getting love in this patch:
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Blitz Royale will be updated weekly with new themes
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Reload Mode (Squid Grounds) will receive gameplay adjustments and bug fixes
🤖 Upcoming Features: Companions & AI Helpers?
Leaks also suggest Epic is experimenting with a new Companions Feature, possibly allowing players to deploy AI allies or pets during matches. This could change the game’s team dynamics dramatically in future updates.
🛍️ ICON Emotes & Item Shop Revivals
New ICON emotes are being added to the game files, and older collaboration assets may return to the item shop—giving players another shot at grabbing limited-time skins and gear.
🔮 Looking Ahead: Chapter 6, Season 4 Hints
Buried within the update files are references to future content for Chapter 6 Season 4, giving data miners something new to chew on and players an early tease of what’s to come.
Also launching: the New Luminary Hypatia Pack, offering fresh cosmetics and exclusive content for collectors.
📝 Final Thoughts
Fortnite Update 36.20 is shaping up to be a massive mid-summer refresh. Whether you're a competitive player, a casual explorer, or someone who just loves Fortnite’s wild collaborations, this update has something for everyone.
With bug fixes, collabs, gameplay improvements, and a live event on the horizon, Epic Games is setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Fortnite’s ever-evolving journey.