Fortnite's Item Shop is gearing up for an exciting upgrade with the addition of a new feature called "Billboard," according to reliable leaker/data-miner HYPEX. This upcoming change is poised to make a significant impact, particularly with the much-anticipated Star Wars collaboration that includes a Rebel Leia Organa skin.

 

What is the "Billboard" Feature?

The "Billboard" feature, as the name suggests, aims to highlight newly added cosmetic items prominently within the Item Shop. This enhancement is expected to help new skins, bundles, and sets stand out more effectively to players, potentially boosting their visibility and sales.

 

Timing and Implementation

HYPEX revealed that the "Billboard" feature is currently in testing, particularly for its debut alongside the Star Wars collaboration on May 3. However, there's a possibility that Epic Games might roll out this feature earlier. The next major update, v29.30, scheduled for release on April 23, 2024, could see the introduction of the "Billboard."

This feature is speculated to function by featuring characters in a large banner above the normal offerings in the Item Shop, as shown in a scrapped design from 2020 shared by HYPEX. Such a display would naturally draw attention to new additions as soon as players access the shop.

 

Why It Matters

The introduction of the "Billboard" feature is particularly timely. With new collaborations and continuously evolving cosmetic options, Fortnite aims to keep the Item Shop engaging and responsive to player interests. By making new items more prominent, Epic Games ensures that exciting new additions receive the attention they deserve.

Moreover, the upcoming Star Wars collaboration presents an ideal opportunity to leverage this new feature. Promoting a popular skin like Rebel Leia Organa using the "Billboard" could enhance player engagement and boost sales, aligning with both promotional goals and user experience improvements.

 

Looking Ahead

As the Fortnite community awaits the next update, the anticipation for this new Item Shop feature adds an extra layer of excitement. Whether it debuts with the next patch or alongside the Star Wars event, the "Billboard" feature represents a strategic enhancement to the way players interact with Fortnite's vast array of cosmetic offerings.