Fans of one the world's most popular video games have been shocked this week after bosses announced a change to game rules.
Fortnite players are reeling following Epic Games' decision to implement the change, which will mean any players using ‘signalling’ in official tournaments could be punished.
Signalling is when one player communicates with their with opponents in the game through jumping or swinging their weapon to gain their attention, report The Mirror.
Epic Games explained: “Throughout last year, players have been sending or receiving signals more commonly during official Fortnite competitions to the point where many players are confused around the ruling.
“For 2020 (starting 1/20/20), we are taking action against any kind of in-game communication between opponents via signalling in official tournament matches. This includes, but is not limited to: Pick-axe swinging, Emoting, Toy tossing, Jumping.”
Players caught signalling will get a penalty.
Epic added: “We want to be explicitly clear that pacifism-style gameplay is still allowed, but if signalling is involved, we will review and take appropriate action for the teaming/collusion penalty. Repeat offenders may be subject to increased penalties.”
Many players have been shocked by the announcement including Fortnite star Ninja, who tweeted his thoughts on the decision.
He tweeted: “I can see where Epic is coming from, as a spectator seeing teams and players rotating and not shooting and swinging pick axes can seem odd but with no rotation items at all professional players understand when the time to fight actually is. Also, jumping? Best way to dodge snipes.”
Meanwhile, another player added: “I just saw a bit of news that you can get banned... for jumping in competitive Fortnite?!! I think it’s about signalling enemies to not attack or something but BRUH imo it’s one of the worst run esports ever.”
Fortnite has recently teamed up with social media giants TikTok to launch a new contest called the Emote Royale Contest.
Epic Games explained: “How’s it work? Take a video of yourself breaking into an original dance move, then share your submission on TikTok using the hashtag #EmoteRoyaleContest.
“The winning dance will become an Emote in Fortnite.”
