Fortnite's Chapter 2 Battle Pass Gives You New Ways To Level Up

After numerous leaks and a big world-ending event, Fortnite’s Chapter 2 update has finally arrived on PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, bringing the game back online following an extended blackout. Not only does the update introduce a wealth of new skins and an entirely new map to battle on, it marks the start of a new Season–and its Battle Pass works a little differently than before.

Instead of Season 11, this is the first season of Chapter 2. As usual, the Battle Pass costs 950 V-Bucks–roughly $10 USD–to purchase, and it gives you access to 100 tiers of rewards to unlock over the course of the season, including skins, wraps, back bling, loading screens, and more. In previous seasons, you could level the Battle Pass up by completing weekly challenges, and while that will still presumably be the case this season, Epic has introduced a few new ways to level up.

This time around, you’ll be able to earn season XP and new medals by completing in-game activities, such as looting chests, eliminating opponents, harvesting materials, and other actions. These medals will be upgraded the more you complete their associated tasks. Moreover, you’ll be able to increase your level beyond 100 now, although it’s still unclear what the new level cap is and if there are any extra rewards for getting that far.

Chapter 2, Season 1 runs until December 12, according to Epic’s website, which seems to be a little shorter than a typical season. If you want to get a head start on the rewards, you can purchase a Battle Pass bundle for 2,800 V-Bucks, which unlocks the first 25 tiers immediately. Those who spring for a Battle Pass can also earn up to 1,500 V-Bucks by playing Fortnite this season, which is more than enough to cover the cost of next season’s Battle Pass.

As previously mentioned, Fortnite Chapter 2 introduces a new map, which features 13 new locations to explore, along with a handful of returning areas such as Pleasant Park and Retail Row. Water is a bigger factor this time around; not only have speed boats been added to the game, you can also now swim and fish. Keep checking back at GameSpot for more Fortnite Chapter 2 coverage.