The storm was closing in. You’re pinned, low on health, and the escape route you planned is now a smoking crater. That’s when you realize: the Shockwave Grenade, your trusty get-out-of-jail-free card, is gone.
Chapter 7 of Fortnite has landed with a tidal wave of new content, washing across a Golden Coast island brimming with fresh loot and weapons. As is tradition, Epic Games has remixed the arsenal, introducing shiny toys while retiring others.
One item, however, seemed like a permanent fixture: the Shockwave Grenade. Since its introduction in Chapter 2, players have relied on it for rapid repositioning and daring escapes. But a recent update (v39.20) has vaulted the Shockwave, and some players are pointing fingers.
Specifically, the crosshairs are on streamer and Icon Series personality Nick Eh 30. Nick has been vocal about loot pool balance, but when the community erupted, Epic Games stepped in to defuse the situation.
Fortnite Devs Defend Nick Eh 30 After Grenade Removal Sparks Backlash
Imagine being blamed for something you didn’t do, and then having the world weigh in. That’s what happened to Nick Eh 30 when the Shockwave Grenade was removed, and the Fortnite community unleashed its fury. In response, Game Design Director Ted Timmins addressed the situation head-on.
Responding to a user accusing Nick, Timmins stated on X: “The team came to their own conclusions and don’t make decisions unilaterally based on a single opinion…The team felt this needed a meta change, and I support intentional experimentation.” In other words, blame the design team, not Nick. Decisions about item balance are internal.
Why was the Shockwave Grenade so popular in Fortnite?
Before its removal, the Shockwave Grenade had been a staple for over 400 days. Its consistent presence made it more than just an item; it was a crutch for many players. Now that it’s gone, the community is experiencing withdrawal, and some are lashing out, treating Nick Eh 30 as a convenient scapegoat.
The streamer himself has addressed the negativity, decrying those who are blaming him. He pointed out that “NickEh30 is not the reason shockwaves were vaulted,” and gave his opinion on the current patch, stating the “game is still fun” and that “there’s still mobility: crashpads, wingsuits, cars.”
What are the best alternative mobility options in Fortnite now?
The Fortnite landscape is constantly shifting. The removal of Shockwave Grenades doesn’t spell doom, but rather demands adaptation. Think of it like losing your favorite shortcut; you might grumble, but eventually, you find a new route, maybe even a better one.
As Nick mentioned, Crash Pads and Wingsuits are solid alternatives. Cars can cover significant ground, and clever use of ziplines can still offer an advantage. The key is experimentation.
How often does Epic Games change the Fortnite loot pool?
Epic Games regularly adjusts the Fortnite loot pool to keep the game fresh and engaging. These changes are a delicate balancing act. They aim to prevent stagnation, encourage diverse playstyles, and respond to the evolving meta. It’s a dance between player expectations and design vision.
However, as we’ve seen, not every change is met with open arms. The removal of a beloved item can feel like a betrayal. The community’s reaction serves as a powerful feedback loop, influencing future decisions about loot and balance.
Ultimately, game balance is a tightrope walk. A misstep can send players tumbling. But is this change a stumble, or a necessary course correction that will lead to a more dynamic and engaging experience?