Fortnite Jetpack to launch at the end of this month

We reported on the Fortnite Jetpack last week after YouTubers Two Epic Buddies tweeted about its imminent release.

This week, we have more information on the Jetpack and when it will be unleashed upon the masses. It seems that now, the Fortnite Jetpack is tied to Week 5 and a brand new competitive playlist.

The new information comes from various data mining efforts, including Two Epic Buddies and Reddit user Richtoveen. In the data mine, Two Epid Buddies discovered references to a brand-new limited time mode called Close Encounters. 

Close Encounters is described as follows;

Close Quarters combat with Shotguns & Jetpacks! If you find a Jetpack, double tap the jump button to take off. Keep the button held to apply thrust. 

Make sure to land before it runs out of fuel!

The Jetpack was originally supposed to arrive in February but was removed at the last minute. Epic Games instead released the Hunting Rifle in the Jetpack’s place. Epic Games said at the time;

This week’s new item is being changed from the Jetpack to the Hunting Rifle.

We found a last minute design issue with the Jetpack that’s going to delay its launch and we’re working on correcting it.

The Jetpack will lift off at a later time.

Meanwhile, you’ll be able to enjoy lots of no-scopes with the new Hunting Rifle item and a new, lucky point of interest on the map.

As for the new competitive playlist, the data mining efforts found files referring to ‘comp’ and new shotguns. The description of the new competitive playlist reads;

Be the last one standing in this opt in proving ground for high skill players!

Epic hasn’t announced anything regarding either the Jetpack or the new playlist, though it seems likely that information will be forthcoming shortly.