Fortnite Operation Snowdown covers the map in snow, offers two free wintery skins, & more

Christmas came early once again in Fortnite via Operation Snowdown. The latest event for Epic’s hit battle royale unwraps plenty of new content to keep things icy fresh. Epic hit us with a snowball full of info this morning regarding what to expect for the remainder of the year. Overall, things look nice, and it may turn out to be a better event than last year. You’ll be able to earn some free skins and cosmetics that match the winter/holiday theme. However, Epic was also a little naughty, because it added those infamous planes back into the map.

The most obvious thing players will notice is that the entire map is now covered in a fresh blanket of snow, while more of the structures are decorated with holiday cheer. The décor was already adorned around various locations, but Epic went full Christmas on us today. You’ll notice that some small map changes have taken place, like clusters of chests set among presents underneath Christmas trees. There are also new weapons like the exotic Big Chill grenade launcher, Sneaky Snowmando grenades, and Snowmando-wrapped Presents. These weapons will respectively turn your feet into ice blocks, transform you into a snowman, or offer up loot. Did I mention the damn planes?

In truth, the Stormwing planes will be fun, but expect to see aggressive players using them once again to ruin your holiday as they fly in guns blazing or hot-dropping on your location. The planes will also feature in the returning limited-time Air Royale playlist. While we’re on the topic of matchmaking, you should also know that Shockwave and Pickaxe Frenzy LTMs are available. The LTMs are offered via the rotating playlist known as the Snowdown Shuffle.

Free stocking stuffers

Now, let’s talk about the presents. Be Santa’s little helper and knock out the holiday Quests offered by Snowmando to earn your free rewards. These include the Shield Surprise Back Bling, Frosty Globes Pickaxe, as well as Gliders, Wraps, another Back Bling and Pickaxe, and more.

If you complete nine of the Fortnite Operation Snowdown Quests, you’ll unlock the Snowmando skin. If you finish 12, you’ll unlock the winter-inspired Frost Squad skin. As for the premium skins, you can see there are some pretty cool options as always, though Fortnite always seems to find a way to take our money.

All in all, this is a nice little event to keep us distracted for a little while longer as we pass into a holiday season of unprecedented circumstances. At least we can squad up and turn some smiles upside down as players look to the skies for Santa’s sleigh only to find Snowcommando’s Stormwing squadron rapidly approaching.