Fortnite update: v40.00 launches March 19, 2026

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Fortnite update v40.00 is confirmed for March 19, 2026. This Fortnite update will kick off Chapter 7 Season 2 — Showdown — and is already shaping player expectations.

The announcement matters because it brings season rollover, cosmetic drops, and an important V‑Bucks pricing change slated to start on the same date.

When will the Fortnite update v40.00 drop?

The next Fortnite update (v40.00) launches on March 19, 2026 and begins Chapter 7 Season 2, titled “Showdown.” Expect scheduled downtime around the launch day as Epic rolls the patch live.

Key facts:

• Launch date: March 19, 2026 (v40.00).
• Marks start of Chapter 7 Season 2: “Showdown.”
• Chapter 7 Season 1 (Pacific Break) ends the same day.

What to expect in the Fortnite update and Battle Pass changes

This Fortnite update promises new skins, crossovers, and a refreshed loot pool. The teaser highlights The Foundation and the Ice King returning in-season.

Notable confirmed change: Epic will begin a V‑Bucks price increase on March 19, 2026. Battle Pass adjustments mean Bonus Rewards no longer include V‑Bucks, but completing the pass will award 800 V‑Bucks.

Leaks and rumors (unconfirmed):

• Possible collab skins from Overwatch and Looney Tunes.
• New map points of interest tied to the Showdown storyline.

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Fortnite update schedule: what comes after v40.00?

Epic’s rollout (dates reported from leaks/coverage):

• March 19: 40.00 (Chapter 7 Season 2)
• April 1: 40.10
• April 16: 40.20
• April 30: 40.30
• May 14: 40.40
• June 4: 40.50

Epic may still change these if needed; small hotfixes can appear between major patches.

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Fortnite update v40.00 is the schedule anchor for the next months of content. Will the Showdown season live up to the hype and the leaks — and which collabs will land? Keep an eye on March 19 to find out.