Fortnite Update v34.30 patch notes: New weapons, maps, gadgets, and more!

Fortnite just dropped a fire update — literally. Version 34.30 rolls out big changes in Ballistic mode, packing in fresh maps, scorching gadgets, sharp new weapons, and a full Ranked Reset. If you’re itching to frag, fly, and flame your way to victory, here’s everything you need to know.
New Mode, New Maps: Test Grounds LaunchesThe new Test Grounds playlist replaces unranked Ballistic — and it's not messing around. You’ll now dive into rotating “shell maps,” stripped-down versions of upcoming arenas built for feedback-fueled tweaks.

• Hammer Fall: A towering fortress made for strategic chaos. High ground, flanking routes, and plenty of room for mind games.
• Storm Chaser Cove: A beachy battleground with tight corners and sneaky spots. Think fast, move faster — close quarters dominate here.

Both maps are still in development visually, but the gameplay core is ready. Try them, break them, and let Epic know what’s working.

New WeaponsTwo new guns just joined the arsenal:

• Burst Assault Rifle - A laser-precise, three-round burst rifle that hits hard and keeps defenders honest. Ideal for holding angles or suppressing site pushes. It’s clean, it's deadly, and it might just become your new main.
• Sovereign Sniper - Lightweight, fast-firing, and mobile. It's not a one-shot kill to the body, but it’s built for aggressive snipers who don’t miss twice.

New GadgetsTime to spice up your loadout with two wild new tools:

• Fire Grenade – Clear rooms, block paths, or just create chaos. This area denial tool ignites the ground and anyone on it.
• Overdrive – Pop this juice to supercharge your speed, reloads, and weapon swaps. Bonus: it also boosts Rift Point interactions. Move fast, win faster.

Ranked Reset: Welcome to R&D Season 1Ranks have been wiped. It’s a fresh start for all Ballistic players as Fortnite launches R&D Season 1 (short for Refine & Design). You’ll need one match to set your new rank — after that, every round, elimination, and assist counts.

It’s not just a reset — it’s a full feedback-driven season. Fortnite wants your thoughts on everything: maps, weapons, gadgets, and ranked flow.
Other Notable Changes

• Matchmaking is smoother — almost 90% of games now start full in Ranked.
• A tutorial is in the works (finally).
• Secondary weapon slots are coming to free up space for your pistol.
• Performance optimizations = faster load times and fewer crashes.
• Fixes galore: grenade bugs, menu delays, sliding glitches, and more.

This isn’t just a patch — it’s a mini-overhaul. With new tech, tighter maps, and an open feedback loop, Fortnite’s aiming for sharper, faster, and more explosive gameplay. Jump in, test it out, and let your opinion shape what’s next.