Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, has revealed its upcoming significant update for various gaming platforms, including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and mobile devices.
Set to launch alongside the arrival of the new Chappell Roan skin in the item shop, the Fortnite update 39.40 will also feature a special Chappell Roan crossover event at the Fortnite Festival in the musical mode.
Players can look forward to a Valentine’s event, new skins, crossovers, as well as numerous gameplay adjustments and bug fixes in this update. However, before the update kicks in, users will have to endure a brief period of server downtime.
Epic Games has confirmed that the update 39.40 is scheduled for release on February 5, making it one of the final updates of the current season. The announcement was made on X, along with details on the server maintenance downtime.
The downtime for version 39.40 will commence at 4 AM ET, with matchmaking services ceasing shortly before that time. For players in the UK, server downtime will start at 9 AM GMT, with matchmaking disabled around 8.30 AM GMT.
As per the Epic Games server status page, the downtime is expected to last for 90 minutes, meaning the game will be back online by 10.30 AM GMT UK time, or 2.30 AM PDT / 5.30 AM EDT / 11.30 AM CET.
In terms of new content, Epic Games has outlined plans to introduce a range of fresh features throughout February. The Valentine’s themed event will include weekly Power Hours, free unlockable items, new purchasable skins, and various gameplay tweaks.
Notable additions in the update include the Roan of Arc outfit inspired by Chappell Roan’s iconic 2024 VMA performance, as well as other Chappell Roan-themed content. Players who acquire the Chappell Roan Outfit will gain access to additional in-game items.
Furthermore, Epic Games will roll out new content collaborations such as the Honkai Star Rail, Marvel Rivals, and K-Pop Demon Hunters items. The South Park collaboration is set to conclude, leading to the return of the Wonkeeland POI.
The update also includes quality of life improvements like fixes for lobby, locker, and emote wheel lag, and a new “Favourites” tab in the Emote Wheel. Additionally, Battle Royale, Reload, and OG playlists will now have a consolidated tile interface for better navigation.
Bug fixes in the update address issues like mantling and hurdling sounds, weapon audio after Creative/UEFN mode, recoil bugs, emote/locker/audio problems, and mobile vehicle button adjustments for older HUD layouts.