Fortnite Ballistic v34.30: Test Grounds Update Details

Fortnite Ballistic’s v34.30 update, released on April 8th, 2025, replaces unranked Ballistic with a new mode called Test Grounds. This update adds two shell maps, new weapons, and gadgets that change how matches play out. Here’s a simple breakdown of the Fortnite Ballistic v34.30 update, what’s new, and how it can help you win in Test Grounds.

New Shell Maps in Fortnite Ballistic v34.30 Update

The Test Grounds playlist rotates between three maps:

Hammer Fallis a massive fortress-style map with tall belfries overlooking a wide battlefield. This design creates interesting dynamics between high and low ground combat. The second new map,Storm Chaser Cove, mimics a beach resort with water elements. Map selection isn’t random, though. The system chooses based on what maps players in your lobby have recently played, favoring the least recently played maps.

Don’t worry if you’re wondering what a “shell map” is. They’re basically layouts without fancy graphics, allowing developers to test and tweak designs based on player feedback before adding visual details.

Fortnite Ballistic v34.30: Test Grounds Update Details

Fortnite Ballistic New Gadgets

There are two new gadgets coming in this update:

1. Fire Grenade

The Fire Grenade is a game-changer for controlling space. Throw it to create a field of flames that forces your opponents to either take damage or move. This gadget is perfect for:

2. Overdrive

Need a boost? Overdrive increases your movement speed, reload speed, and weapon swap speed. It also speeds up planting and defusing the Rift Point Device. Consider using it when:

New Weapons in Test Grounds

The Test Grounds update brings not only two new gadgets but also two new weapons:

1. Burst Assault Rifle

The new Burst Assault Rifle shoots in three-shot bursts that deal strong damage. Its precision makes it great for defending areas from attackers. Here are some tips to use it well:

2. Sovereign Sniper

Unlike the heavier Reaper Sniper, the Sovereign Sniper won’t one-shot enemies with body shots, but it compensates with faster firing speed and lower cost. This makes it perfect for:

Ranked Reset: R&D Season 1

With v34.30, Ballistic’s first-ranked season has begun, and it is called “R&D Season 1” (Refine and Design). Everyone’s rank has been reset, so you’ll need to play one placement match to establish your new rank. Remember that your rank progression depends on:

The matching system uses your party’s average rank, so team composition matters when queuing up for competitive play.

Fortnite Ballistic v34.30

What’s Coming Next to Fortnite Ballistic?

Epic Games has shared some exciting plans for future updates, including:

The developer is also asking for player feedback on Ballistic, especially around the new shell maps, weapon balance, and how the new gadgets feel in matches. They also want thoughts on the latest Ranked Season. you may share your feedback through the in-game post-match survey, on theFortnite Battle Royale subreddit, or in theEnglish Fortnite Discord. Epic will go over the feedback in their next blog update on April 22nd, 2025.

Fornite Ballistic Fire Grenade

Jump in now to experience these changes and help shape the future of Ballistic. The developers are actively listening as they continue to refine and design this exciting mode. See you in the Test Grounds!

Shida Aruya

Shida is a gaming writer at TechWiser who loves getting comfy with a good book. When she is not writing, you’ll catch her growing crops in Stardew Valley and Fields of Mistria, or exploring Fortnite. For Shida, nothing beats a day split between reading books and playing games.

Fortnite Ballistic v34.30: Test Grounds Update Details