The update that was released earlier today gives Fortnite several new additions. Tornadoes, Lightning Bolts (as part of Chapter 3's new weather system), and the Flare Gun are now all in the game. They are about to transform Fortnite and add new wrinkles.
Tornadoes have gotten a lot of attention since it was all originally teased in the Chapter 3 trailer. Lightning has flown under the radar, but it has the potential to be a dangerous and useful part of the game. Its mechanics will be explored below.
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Lightning is currently in the game. The update was released around 9:00 AM EST this morning, so players can jump into a match and try out all the new additions, including new weather.
Lightning will come out of large, dark, threatening clouds. These clouds will form overhead and begin to crackle with lightning. Players on the ground need to be very careful of where they are when this happens. Areas about to be struck by Fortnite lightning will be obvious. Players will notice lightning flashing through the ground in a moderately large area. There are only seconds between what happens and lightning hits the ground.
After that, it works very similarly to a firefly jar. The surrounding area will be illuminated and the fire will begin to spread. The ground as well as trees, buildings, vehicles and players will catch fire. However, even if a player is hit by Fortnite lightning, it's not the end of the game. In fact, it only deals 10 damage. It also gives players a speed boost as if they had just consumed a chili pepper.
The effects are intended to compensate for damage taken from lightning, but it might prompt consideration of the benefits of being hit intentionally. It can be used in certain circumstances to help players get out of the storm faster or reach a location (like a supply) faster.
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