Fortnite players were livid to learn that the beloved Siphon mechanic has been removed from tournaments.
Fortnite's new Ranked Mode launched on May 17, representing a unique experience for players. With the retirement of Arena Mode, Ranked would be the true successor and accurately represent competitive Fortnite. However, Epic Games controversially removed Fortnite's Siphon mechanic in a move not many anticipated.
The beloved gameplay element will not appear in future tournaments. As a result, professional Fortnite players voiced their opinions about this controversial decision.
What is Siphon in Fortnite?
Siphon in Fortnite is a mechanic that benefits players who earn eliminations. It is instrumental when you are low on health because an elimination nets either 50 shield or health to the aggressor.
Some of the most impressive moments in Fortnite history would not have been possible without Siphon. The intense end games regularly result in players going on insane elimination streaks kept alive by Siphon.
This mechanic has been a staple in Fortnite since Epic introduced Arena Mode. After Ranked Mode replaced Arena, Siphon was suspiciously absent. Players naturally believed it would only remain missing in action until after Season Zero, but that was not the case.
The Fortnite Status Twitter account doubled down on the absence of Siphon. Here are a few things clarified in the tweet, which will affect Ranked and official tournaments:
- Material caps at 500.
- Harvesting rates slightly increased.
- Players drop 50 of each material when eliminated.
- Health and Shield Siphon on Elimination disabled.
Epic capped off the tweet, stating that they will monitor tournaments and make adjustments as needed. The developers have not explained the reasoning for removing Siphon from Fortnite. This outcome did not yield a positive response.
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Clix and others sound off on the removal of Siphon
Many prominent players within competitive Fortnite questioned Epic's decision to remove such a fundamental mechanic. A glance at the comment section unveils the thoughts of Fortnite's most talented players.
Cody "Clix" Conrod responded, saying the tweet had to be a joke. Multiple-time FNCS Champion Matthew "Mero" Faitel echoed Clix's thoughts, calling the move a "crazy change."
Considering the backlash from players, there is a glimmer of hope that Siphon could return to Fortnite. Epic also stated that it will make adjustments as needed. For the time being, Fortnite tournaments will look different than before.
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