# Fortnite: Save the World is now free
Epic Games has just announced that Fortnite’s cooperative PvE mode, **Save the World**, has become free on all platforms starting **April 16, 2026**. The change ends nearly ten years of waiting and arrives alongside the launch of the title for the new **Nintendo Switch 2**.
## Why did the mode become free‑to‑play?
– Launched in early access in 2017, the project was initially intended to be free, but the massive success of Battle Royale shifted the company’s focus.
– Since 2020, Save the World was sold as a paid package, but Epic decided to revert to the original model to revitalize the community and further integrate the game’s ecosystem.
## Availability on Nintendo Switch 2
This is the first time Save the World appears on a Nintendo handheld console. To ease the transition, the progression system has been revamped:
– **Simplified XP**: the experience count has been made more straightforward.
– **Explorable Initial Base**: the player’s hub expands as progress is made, bringing iconic characters and settings inspired by classic menus.
## Recognition for those who already paid
Players who purchased the mode during the paid period will receive exclusive benefits, as announced by Epic:
– **Superchargers**
– **Vouchers**
– **Gold**
These items will be credited directly to users’ accounts. Additionally, anyone who pre‑registered on the official site before April 16 can already claim special community rewards.
## Crossover event with Battle Royale
To celebrate the new phase, a joint event between Save the World and the Battle Royale mode is active until **June 5**. The rewards include:
– **Jess character outfit** upon accumulating **350,000 XP** playing Save the World exclusively.
– **Jess and Penny NPCs** on the Battle Royale map, offering themed missions that grant clothing items.
Epic Games emphasizes that the initiative aims to attract new players and reward the existing base, keeping the title relevant within the Fortnite universe.
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*For more pop culture news, follow the official Epic Games sources.*
