Fortnite chapter 6 season 3 updates, server downtime, features and more

The wait is over for Fortnite fans. Chapter 6 Season 3 is now live, and it’s nothing short of cinematic. Titled Galactic Battle, the new update brings an immersive Star Wars experience to the popular battle royale, complete with legendary characters, themed weapons, and major map changes.
Before the excitement kicked off, Fortnite underwent scheduled server downtime starting at 2am ET / 11pm PT (May 1) / 7am BST on May 2. Servers were taken offline for a few hours as part of the seasonal reset, a standard practice before new content drops. Once back online, players were thrust into a galaxy filled with lightsabers, X-Wings, and Force powers.


One of the standout changes this season is the introduction of four new Points of Interest (POIs). These include the Vader Samurai’s Solitude, a Japan-inspired fortress housing a Darth Vader mini-boss, and the Resistance Base, nestled in a dense forest with the Millennium Falcon docked nearby.
Players can also explore the First Order Base, guarded by Captain Phasma, and the Outpost Enclave, a rebel zone echoing Tatooine aesthetics. Each location offers unique encounters and rewards, including boss battles that unlock exclusive loot like Phasma’s Blaster Medallion and rare weapon variants.
Combat is now more dynamic with the introduction of blasters and lightsabers. Players can wield new weapons like the DL-44 Blaster Pistol, CR-2 Blaster, and IQA-11 Marksman Rifle, alongside returning favorites such as the DC-15 and E-11. The Thermal Imploder, a new grenade-type item, adds explosive tactics by creating a deadly vacuum.
Lightsabers return with special Force abilities. Train with Rey for Force Push, or with Palpatine for Force Lightning. Defeating Vader unlocks a saber with Force Throw, offering a serious edge in battle.
Adding even more excitement, players can now pilot X-Wings and TIE Fighters, allowing for aerial combat across the island. This marks one of the few times vehicles play a central role in Fortnite's gameplay loop.
The Battle Pass is packed with Star Wars-themed cosmetics. Notable skins include General Grievous, Poe Dameron, Emperor Palpatine, Rebel Evie, and a Wookiee Team Leader.
Epic Games has also lined up weekly events through June, such as Mandalorian Rising and Death Star Sabotage, ensuring that the action doesn't stop anytime soon.
With so much packed into this update, Galactic Battle could be Fortnite’s most ambitious season yet.