Fortnite December 15 Hotfix: Sniper Nerf, Ballistic Shield Buff And More

Fortnite's Chapter 5 unveils its latest hotfix, introducing a mix of nerfs and buffs that promise to significantly alter the game's tactical landscape.

Fortnite chapter 5 season 1 underground
A new hotfix in Fortnite Chapter 5 has just been deployed. | © Epic Games

In the ever-evolving world of Fortnite, the latest hotfix for Chapter 5, dubbed #FortniteUnderground, brings a series of nerfs and buffs that are set to reshape the gameplay dynamics. iFireMonkey, a renowned source for Fortnite updates, shared detailed insights on Twitter on December 15, 2023, about the changes that players should anticipate.

Fortnite Chapter 5 December 15 Hotfix Details

Striker AR Adjustments

A staple in many players' arsenals, the Striker AR, sees a uniform decrease in damage across its variants:

  • Common damage reduced from 24 to 23.
  • Uncommon damage goes from 25 to 24.
  • Rare, Epic, and Legendary variants see a one-point damage reduction each.
  • Mythic variant now inflicts 29 damage, down from 30.

Medallions: Shield Dynamics Overhauled

Medallions now offer slower shield regeneration rates, varying based on the number held. The maximum shield regeneration cap is adjusted, with a new system: 50 shield for one medallion, scaling up to 100 for five. Additionally, taking damage halts shield regen for three seconds, and the circle radius of effect is decreased by 60%.

Ballistic Shield & Ranger Pistol: Minor Boosts

The Ballistic Shield sees a slight increase in pistol damage, now 19, up from 18. The Ranger Pistol also benefits from damage buffs across all variants, enhancing its appeal in combat situations.

Thunder Burst SMG & Flowberries: Enhanced Efficiency

The Thunder Burst SMG's magazine size is increased, both for the standard and drum mod versions, enhancing its firepower. Flowberries now grant more shield per use, jumping from 10 to 15 shield.

Snowball Launcher & Shield Breaker EMP: Tactical Tweaks

The Snowball Launcher's magazine size is reduced to 4, requiring more strategic use. In contrast, the Shield Breaker EMP sees an increase in shield damage, making it a more formidable choice in disrupting enemy defenses.

Reaper Sniper Rifle: Spawn Rate Decrease

Lastly, the Reaper Sniper Rifle's spawn rate sees a significant drop, roughly by 42%, making it a rarer yet potentially more impactful weapon in matches.

These changes introduced in the #FortniteUnderground hotfix signify Fortnite's continuous commitment to maintaining a balanced and engaging gaming experience. Players will need to adapt their strategies and loadouts in response to these updates, ensuring that Fortnite remains a dynamic and challenging battleground.

Gaston Cuny

Gaston is a writer covering various Fortnite & Entertainment topics for EarlyGame. Previously, Gaston worked for Dexerto's editorial staff, writing guides and news articles....