Fortnite just delivered one of its most ambitious and controversial updates to date. In a galaxy-sized move, Epic Games officially introduced AI-powered Darth Vader into the game—complete with James Earl Jones’s voice, voice chat interactivity, and in-game awareness of what character you’re playing. But that’s just the beginning. This week’s update has brought a storm of content, including Chewbacca, General Grievous, a new shotgun, leaked summer events, and even the long-awaited return of Jar Jar Binks.
Let’s break down all the biggest reveals and what they mean for players as we head toward the next live event.
Make sure to check out Top5Gaming on Youtube
Darth Vader Is Now AI, and He Knows Who You Are
In a shocking yet innovative twist, Darth Vader is now AI-controlled and responds to players using voice chat. If you recruit him in-game and speak, he answers using authentic voice lines performed by James Earl Jones—all legally cleared with the late actor’s family.
Vader isn’t just repeating canned lines. He analyzes your Skin and tailors his responses. If you’re playing as Hatsune Miku, he acknowledges your training. If you’re Eminem, he comments on your “rhythmic aggression.” It’s a mind-blowing use of in-game AI—and it’s already sparking controversy. Streamers like Loserfruit have pushed the system into breaking its safety rules, making Vader swear unintentionally.
Epic has built in guardrails to restrict certain topics, including romance, real-world violence, and profanity. But as seen with other AI models, clever manipulation can still lead to slip-ups.
New Weapons, Skins, and a Star Wars Storm
Alongside Vader’s AI arrival, the update has brought an arsenal of new content. First up: the Jawa Scatter Blaster, a Pump Shotgun with devastating one-shot potential. Pair it with Chewbacca’s return, and you’ve got Wookie blasters back in the loot pool.
And finally, the most requested Star Wars character is here: General Grievous. You can now unlock his secret skin through the Battle Pass, including his never-before-seen pre-Separatist Warlord version.
Also added were super styles for all Battle Pass skins (except Grievous), with a slick Star Wars-inspired galaxy aesthetic. Unfortunately, Fortnite’s long-awaited return to iOS was blocked at the last moment by Apple, delaying its U.S. comeback.
Jar Jar, Mandos, and More Summer Surprises
Jar Jar Binks finally lands in Fortnite, not just as Darth Jar Jar but also as a regular NPC and outfit. However, players will have to purchase both versions separately. Pro tip: If you want to preview the skin, defeat Jar Jar as Mystique and steal the look.
The update also teases next week’s full Mandalorian-themed expansion. You’ll be able to fully customize your own Mandalorian warrior—even more so than Iron Man’s suit—with challenges, jetpacks, and unique NPC interactions.
June’s Crew Pack features Aloin, a sleek new skin with a Gumball Gun back bling and Miata-themed stickers. And for bargain hunters, the Epic Mega Sale lets players grab the Frosted Skyline Wrap Pack for free, plus Rocket League tri-wheels that transfer into your Fortnite locker.
Map Changes, New Vehicles & the Summer Event
As part of the map refresh, Crime City is under reconstruction. The cratered bank is being rebuilt, Fletcher Kane’s statue is gone, and lightning is activating the Spirit Portals again. This ties directly into the next live event, where Palpatine—shown in new sprays—may try to harness Rift Butterflies and the Zero Shards.
New vehicles are also on the way. Epic added encrypted files for a Ferrari collab vehicle (possibly a LaFerrari) and a new original SUV called the Stampede. Alongside these are new cosmetics, including:
- Dusk Knight – A mysterious and creepy warrior skin
- Squadron Leader Voltateria – Tactical military gear
- Futura – A retro 1970s look
- Burnoff – A helmeted biker skin, a callback to Season 3’s Burnout
Hope’s graffiti power is also returning soon, teasing a possible story arc about painting the island, and potentially clashing with Palpatine’s Zero Shard goals.
FAQs About Fortnite’s Latest Star Wars Update
Can you really talk to Darth Vader in Fortnite?
Yes. Using voice chat, Darth Vader will respond to you with AI-generated dialogue voiced by James Earl Jones. He can recognize skins and reacts to in-game behavior.
Is Jar Jar Binks in Fortnite?
Yes. Both Darth Jar Jar and a regular Jar Jar Binks skin are available. Each must be purchased separately.
What is the Jawa Scatter Blaster?
A new shotgun that fires one powerful shot at a time, similar to a “super pump” weapon. It’s part of the Star Wars loot pool.
How can I get the free wrap and Rocket League items?
Log into the Epic Games Store and claim the Frosted Skyline Wrap Pack and Rocket League tri-wheels during the Epic Mega Sale. The Rocket League items transfer to Fortnite once you log into both games.
Why did Fortnite’s iOS release get delayed again?
Apple blocked the latest update submission, forcing Epic to shut down iOS support worldwide temporarily—even in countries where it was previously allowed.
