The Fortnite Close Encounters LTM is back, baby. The LTM, which was previously around for a brief period in season 4, has made a triumphant return, one that I’m going to christen Close Encounters 2.0. I can already sense you twiddling your thumbs in anticipation. That’s good. Below, we’ve given you the Fortnite Close Encounters return time, as well as tips on how to win in the Limited Time Mode, plus a look at a potential end date, and whether any changes have been made to the jetpack-fuelled extravaganza.
Fortnite Close Encounters 2.0: When Does It Start?
The Fortnite Close Encounters LTM has made a welcome return as of September 20, 2018. It launches (heh) at 9:00 a.m. Pacific/12:00 p.m. Eastern/5:00 p.m. BST and can be accessed from the main lobby.
Fortnite Close Encounters 2.0: Any Changes?
None whatsoever. This is the classic Close Encounters LTM that most of us played and loved the first time around. That means there’s lightning-quick storm circles, jetpacks with limited fuel, and shotguns galore. It’s all about fast-paced, instantly-gratifying gunplay that’s a world away from the tiptoe nature of the vanilla battle royale experience. And that means it’s not easy. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tips for you down below, should you want to get ahead of the competition before things begin in earnest.
Fortnite Close Encounters: End Date
While Epic hasn’t given an official Fortnite Close Encounters end date, I’d wager good money on September 25 being the ultimate cut-off point for the LTM. The reason is twofold: A) Limited Time Modes are just that: limited. They often don’t hang around long as even the more popular ones fall by the wayside. B) Fortnite season 6 is a-coming. A tried-and-tested LTM is going to be the least of Epic’s worries, so expect only a five-day window for 2.0
Fortnite Close Encounters: How to Win the Limited Time Mode
This one is just your typical battle royale mode. Shoot everything that moves until you’re the only one standing. Of course, with jetpacks and shotguns being exclusively the items used, you’re going to need a quick trigger, as well as utilizing the building mechanic to ensure you stay one step ahead of the competition. As much as it sounds conducive to fun, don’t use the jetpack unless you absolutely have to. There’s a fuel meter for a reason, people.
Fortnite Close Encounters: Where are the Jetpacks?
Pretty much everywhere. Epic has seen to it that Close Encounters will drop shotguns and jetpacks from every single chest, as well as through an onslaught of supply drops. You’ll be falling over yourself finding jetpacks and shotguns at nearly every opportunity.
Fortnite Close Encounters: Quicker Storm Circle
Why did you think it was called Close Encounters? The storm circle closes in at an increased rate in this Limited Time Mode, which means you’ll have to get a move on. Epic predicts that each game, because of the space and time constraints, should only last about 15 minutes – so you can jump into a couple of games whenever you have free time.