Fortnite Is Testing Major Changes to Glider Mechanics — Here's What We Know

A well-known Fortnite leaker has revealed that Epic Games is working on a major revamp to how gliders function during free fall — a change that could significantly affect early-game strategy in Battle Royale matches.

Currently, players begin on Spawn Island and then board the Battle Bus, selecting their drop location based on its route. After jumping, they free fall for a limited time before their glider opens—either manually or automatically at a certain altitude. This mechanic is especially crucial in competitive modes, where landing quickly and precisely can determine who gains the upper hand in the first moments of a match.

What's Changing with Gliders?

According to trusted leaker Wensoing, Fortnite may soon introduce a glider-releasing system that allows players to open and close their glider at will during descent. This would eliminate the need to carefully navigate around terrain like tall buildings or mountains to delay automatic deployment. With more control, players could extend their free fall and hit the ground much faster, giving them a better shot at reaching high-value loot zones first.

A New Layer of Risk and Strategy

However, there's a catch. Wensoing notes that fall damage will come into play under this new system. If players deploy their glider too late or misjudge the altitude, they could hit the ground hard — and pay the price. This suggests Epic will likely implement a safe distance threshold, where opening the glider at the right time becomes a key skill tied to speed and awareness.

The community has already begun speculating about the implications. One hot topic: will water landings negate fall damage? In the current game, jumping from high places into water breaks the fall without damage, so it’s possible that this logic could apply to glider-freefall as well — giving skilled players even more options.

Why This Matters

If implemented, this glider mechanic revamp could drastically change Fortnite’s early game, especially in competitive modes where every second counts. It would reward precision and planning while adding new opportunities — and risks — to landing strategy.

Whether you're a casual player or a competitive grinder, this potential change is one to watch.

By the way, here are our social media pages – come join us, buddy! 😊

Facebook

Telegram

Twitter