When was the Drum Gun added to Fortnite?
Fortnite, a popular battle royale game, has undergone numerous changes and updates since its release in 2017. One of the most iconic and beloved weapons in the game is the Drum Gun. But, when was it added to Fortnite?
Early Years of Fortnite
Fortnite was first released in September 2017 as a paid-for early access game. The game’s original focus was on its building mechanics and creative mode. The game’s popularity soared with the introduction of its battle royale mode in September 2017.
The Drum Gun Concept
The Drum Gun is a heavy, high-capacity weapon that fires large-caliber bullets at a rapid rate. The idea of a drum-fed machine gun was initially conceived in the early stages of Fortnite’s development. However, it wasn’t until 2018 that the weapon was finally added to the game.
The First Drum Gun Leak
The first hint of the Drum Gun’s existence came in April 2018. A datamined screenshot from the game’s code revealed a weapon called the "Drum Gun" with a firing rate of 600 RPM. This sparked excitement among the Fortnite community, but Epic Games, the game’s developer, remained tight-lipped about the weapon’s release.
Drum Gun’s Official Release
On May 22, 2018, Epic Games released the Drum Gun as part of the 4.5 update. The weapon was initially exclusive to the Battle Bus’s loot pool, making it a rare and highly sought-after find.
Early Drum Gun Stats
Here are the Drum Gun’s initial stats when it was first released:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Damage per shot | 24 |
| Fire rate | 600 RPM |
| Mag capacity | 100 bullets |
| Accuracy | High |
Rebalancing and Updates
Over the years, the Drum Gun has undergone several rebalancing and update changes. These changes have aimed to make the weapon more viable in competitive play while maintaining its unique identity.
Changes to Fire Rate and Accuracy
In Season 5 (2018), the Drum Gun’s fire rate was reduced from 600 RPM to 450 RPM. This change aimed to reduce the weapon’s spam potential and increase its reliance on accuracy. Additionally, the weapon’s accuracy was slightly reduced to encourage players to aim more carefully.
Changes to Mag Capacity and Damage
In Season 8 (2019), the Drum Gun’s mag capacity was increased from 100 bullets to 150 bullets. This change aimed to increase the weapon’s durability in prolonged firefights. The weapon’s damage per shot was also increased from 24 to 32.
The Drum Gun’s Impact on Fortnite
The Drum Gun has become an iconic weapon in Fortnite, known for its versatility and high damage output. It has also become a staple in many professional players’ arsenals, with many considering it a game-changer in competitive play.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Drum Gun was added to Fortnite on May 22, 2018, as part of the 4.5 update. Since then, the weapon has undergone several rebalancing changes to maintain its unique identity and viability in competitive play. The Drum Gun’s impact on Fortnite has been significant, with many considering it a beloved and essential weapon in the game.
Timeline of Drum Gun Updates
- April 2018: Drum Gun leak in Fortnite’s code
- May 22, 2018: Drum Gun release as part of the 4.5 update
- Season 5 (2018): Fire rate reduced from 600 RPM to 450 RPM, accuracy reduced
- Season 8 (2019): Mag capacity increased from 100 bullets to 150 bullets, damage per shot increased from 24 to 32
Important Points to Remember
• The Drum Gun was initially exclusive to the Battle Bus’s loot pool, making it a rare and highly sought-after find.
• The weapon’s fire rate was reduced from 600 RPM to 450 RPM in Season 5.
• The weapon’s accuracy was reduced in Season 5 to encourage players to aim more carefully.
• The Drum Gun’s mag capacity was increased from 100 bullets to 150 bullets in Season 8.
• The weapon’s damage per shot was increased from 24 to 32 in Season 8.
