The Fortnite First big update of 2026 is almost here, and it is shaping up to be one of the most content-packed patches we have seen in a long time. With major map changes, the long-awaited return of The Seven, brand new weapons, huge collaborations like South Park and Crash Bandicoot, plus a mysterious new Warner Bros game mode, this update could seriously shake up Fortnite.
What map changes are coming in the Fortnite first big update
The most noticeable change in this Fortnite first big update arrives with the end of Winterfest. The snow covering the northern parts of Forna Island has melted, and Clausy Lodge has been removed from the map. Fortnite is officially moving into a new phase now that the winter season is over.
However, the real story-driven changes are only just beginning.
New audio logs found around the island strongly hint at the return of The Seven. According to the leaks, they may have been captured by forces connected to the Last Reality, setting up a major confrontation that could redefine the current chapter.
Even more exciting, leaks suggest that The Foundation and The Visitor from Reality Unknown could arrive on the island soon. If true, this would mark one of the biggest narrative moments Fortnite has delivered in years.
New weapons, NPCs, and the return of The Seven
The return of The Seven is not just cosmetic or story-based. It is expected to have a direct impact on gameplay.
Two brand new weapons tied to The Seven are rumored to arrive with the Fortnite first big update:
- Seven Rifle: A futuristic long-range weapon believed to be an evolution of the classic Rail Gun from Chapter 2 Season 7. Expect high damage, precision shots, and strong mid to long-range dominance.
- Seven Cannon: A powerful hand cannon-style weapon designed for high-impact damage in close to mid-range fights.
Both weapons are expected to be sold or rewarded by new NPCs that will appear across the island. These NPCs are rumored to be directly connected to The Seven and the ongoing Zero Point storyline.
New super edit styles and Battle Pass rewards
Players who have been grinding the Battle Pass will have even more to chase after January 9.
Epic Games is adding three new rewards per five Battle Pass skins, each featuring super edit styles. These advanced customizations are similar to the highly popular styles from Chapter 2 Season 8.
To unlock all of these styles, players are expected to reach around level 200 this season.
Several classic outfits are confirmed to receive new styles, including Dark Voyager. Many fans believe these edits will visually reflect the instability of the Zero Point and the growing chaos in the storyline.
At the same time, the OG Pass is finally unlocking its remaining rewards. Only three of six pages have been available so far, but once the Fortnite first big update drops, owners of the OG Pass will gain access to the final pages. These include new styles for:
- Lieutenant Winter
- Wonder Onesie
- Void Walker Lynx
Void Walker Lynx has been spotted in multiple loading screens alongside Dark Voyager, hinting at a deeper story connection in Chapter 7.
Fortnite First Big Update Massive collaborations: Crash Bandicoot and South Park
Fortnite collaborations continue to push boundaries, and the Fortnite first big update update is no exception.
The surprise reveal is Crash Bandicoot. Instead of a traditional skin, Crash will arrive as a sidekick. Players will likely be able to purchase him in the Item Shop or unlock him through a promotion tied to the Epic Games Store.
Sidekicks have exploded in popularity after recent collaborations, and Crash Bandicoot is expected to be one of the most popular additions yet.
Even bigger is the confirmed arrival of South Park in Fortnite.
Due to their small size, characters like Cartman, and potentially Kenny, Stan, and Kyle, will appear in mech suit skins. This allows them to fit Fortnite’s character proportions while staying true to the show’s style.
The South Park crossover also includes a dedicated event pass, featuring both free and premium reward tracks. The premium version is expected to cost 1000 V-Bucks.
One confirmed Mythic item from the collaboration is the Stick of Truth, which can manipulate the Storm circle. This mechanic could completely change late-game strategies.
Mysterious Warner Bros game mode
Epic Games is also teasing a brand new official game mode developed in collaboration with Warner Bros.
While details remain limited, speculation ranges from a basketball-style mode to something inspired by rumored Harry Potter content. What is confirmed is that this mode is fully official and tied directly to Warner Bros IP.
It was originally expected to launch during Winterfest, but it now appears to be part of the January 9 Fortnite first big update.
Looking ahead to Chapter 7 Season 2
Beyond this Fortnite first big update, leaks are already pointing toward Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 2.
Survey skins suggest that The Order will receive a redesigned outfit, potentially corrupted by recent story events. The upcoming season appears to lean heavily into Norse mythology, drawing thematic parallels to earlier myth-focused seasons.
This could mean the return of powerful bosses like The Ice King, new mythic enemies, and possible frost giant-inspired locations. These changes are expected later in the season rather than at launch.
Fortnite FAQs Fortnite first big update
When does the first 2026 Fortnite first big update release?
The Fortnite first big update is scheduled to go live on January 9, 2026.
Is The Seven returning in Fortnite 2026?
Yes. Audio logs and leaks confirm the return of The Seven, along with new NPCs and story content.
Are new weapons coming in the January 9 update?
Yes. Two Seven-themed weapons, the Seven Rifle and Seven Cannon, are expected to launch.
Is the South Park collaboration confirmed?
Yes. South Park is officially coming to Fortnite with mech skins, an event pass, and mythic items.
Will Crash Bandicoot be a Fortnite skin?
No. Crash Bandicoot is expected to arrive as a sidekick rather than a playable skin.
