Fortnite v4.2 content update serves up jetpacks, new game modes

It's time for yet another weekly Fortnite update, and this one is pretty exciting. This week, we're getting the version 4.2 content update, and while the patch notes aren't very long, this certainly seems to be a matter of quality over quantity. For starters, the jetpack has finally arrived in Fortnite Battle Royale, after Epic began teasing the item yesterday afternoon.

The jetpack is going to be something of a rare treat instead of a common sight, though, as it's a legendary item. That means it can only be found in treasure chests, so don't expect them to drop all too frequently. Epic says that the jetpack is the first of the new backpack item type.

Though this will only really matter once there are other backpacks in the game, today's patch notes explain that you can have only one type of backpack at a time, and they'll take up one of your five inventory slots when you pick one up. With the jetpack specifically, you'll find that you have a limited amount of fuel and a limited amount of thrust before you need to land and recharge. Once the jetpack runs out of fuel, it'll be automatically destroyed.

To use the jetpack, you simply need to press the jump button while you're already in mid-air. You can't enter targeting mode when you're in the air, so it might be helpful to consider the jetpack as a mobility tool instead of an assault one, lest you try using it to gain a height advantage over your opponent only to discover that you can't aim properly when you're above them.

The jetpack is the only new item coming to Fortnite with this update, but there's a new limited-time mode to check out as well. Solid Gold, a mode where all weapon drops are legendary rarity, is returning to the game today. Stone, metal, chug jug, slurp juice, shield, special grenade, launch pad, and campfire drops have all been increased as well, so if you want to feel overpowered, this is definitely the mode for you.

Epic also announced a second limited-time game mode called Close Encounters today, which isn't in the game yet but will be soon. In this mode, you'll be getting up close and personal with your opponents, as shotguns and jetpacks will be the only drops that are enabled. We'll keep an eye out for more news on Close Encounters, but for now, you can head over to Epic's website to read the full patch notes for Fortnite's v4.2 content update.