Fortnite's Controversial Comeback: The Resurgence of the Lock On Pistol and the Game-Changing January Update!

A recent update to Fortnite has reintroduced the divisive Lock On Pistol, adding a layer of controversy to the game. The Lock On Pistol has long been a point of contention among players, sparking debates about its effectiveness.

Over the course of its seven-year existence, Fortnite has unveiled a variety of formidable weapons that have given players innovative ways to dispatch their opponents. Weapons such as the Ray Gun, Infinity Gauntlet, Rail Gun, and others have left their mark, but the Lock On Pistol stands out as a unique addition. Despite its initial heated discussions within the Fortnite community, the Lock On Pistol has made a comeback, emerging from the vault after a seven-month hiatus.

As part of the January 9th update, the Lock On Pistol has been unvaulted and can now be found in chests, floor loot, and various other sources. This pistol possesses the ability to lock on to any enemy within a 50-meter radius. After a brief charging period, it unleashes up to four shots that automatically connect with the target, eliminating the need for precise aiming. The damage output is 20 to the body and 25 to the head, requiring multiple salvos to take down shielded opponents. To counter the Lock On Pistol, many players resort to building structures while their adversary charges up. However, this weapon proves particularly effective against opponents in mid-air who cannot build, making it a formidable choice in Fortnite's Zero Build mode. The recent update did not introduce any balance adjustments to the Lock On Pistol, with the only additional content being the Week 6 challenges.

The Lock On Pistol falls within the rare tier of weapon rarity, making it readily accessible to players. When initially announced in the summer of 2023, expectations were high for it to be classified as epic, legendary, or even mythic due to its distinctive features. Surprisingly, the pistol maintains a balanced status when both users in a confrontation are aware of its capabilities. Some players argue that it becomes less effective in high-skilled engagements. The official description emphasizes its usefulness in "high-speed pursuits," suggesting that Epic Games may have intended for the weapon to shine in specific scenarios.

In conjunction with the reintroduction of the Lock On Pistol, Epic Games has also introduced the Enforcer AR and Flowberry Fizz to Fortnite. These additions bring freshness to the assault rifle and healing consumable categories. Although some users criticize the Enforcer for its perceived weakness compared to other ARs like the Striker, Flowberry Fizz has gained popularity among players for its combined healing and mobility effects.