UPDATE: Fortnite developer Epic Games has taken the game offline for server maintenance.
With the game offline, fans can now download and install update 33.10, which introduces the new 5v5 Ballistics mode.
Server maintenance is expected to run until at least 11am GMT, although due to the size of the update and amount of new content, it will probably remain offline until midday.
Daily Express will update this article with all the latest information.
ORIGINAL: Fortnite fans are looking forward to the release of update 33.10, which will introduce a boatload of new content.
Available on PS5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Android and PC, update 33.10 will be available to download and install on the morning of December 10.
As a numbered update, the download will be accompanied by an extended period of server downtime, which means you won’t be able to play Fortnite, LEGO Fortnite, Rocket Racing and Fortnite Festival for at least a couple of hours.
If you want to know when you can log back into Fortnite, check out the 33.10 server maintenance schedule below.
READ MORE: Fortnite update 33.10 patch notes, downtime, first-person Ballistic mode, LEGO Brick Life
According to Epic Games, Fortnite Battle Royale and all of its companion game modes will be taken offline in full at 9am GMT.
However, as Epic points out in a tweet announcing the downtime, matchmaking will be disabled at around 8.30am UK time.
“Sharpen your blades!” reads an Epic tweet. “Downtime for v33.10 begins at 4 AM ET with matchmaking ending shortly beforehand.”
Epic hasn’t revealed exactly when downtime will come to an end, but maintenance typically lasts for at least a couple of hours.
Judging by the amount of new content launching as part of update 33.10, expect downtime to come to an end at around midday.
In terms of what fans can expect from the update, Epic has officially confirmed plans to bring a new first-person mode to the game.
Fortnite Ballistic is a new first-person shooter mode featuring 5v5 battles with ranked and unranked modes.
Described as a tactical game mode where teamwork is key, it will launch with the Skyline 10 map.
Epic explains more: “Ballistic is launching with the Skyline 10 map, a starting set of weapons, and a limited number of items. Adjustments will be made beyond launch based on player feedback, in addition to major updates such as new maps, weapons, and features.”
The game is a no-build mode where all presets from your Locker will carry over. It supports existing skins and items, except for Pickaxes, Contrails, Instruments, Vehicles and Jam Tracks.
There’s also a new Text chat upgrade, as well as a LEGO social role-playing mode called Brick Tales.
Daily Express will update this article when server downtime comes to an end.