TL;DR
- Over 50% of the map is now submerged, creating new aquatic gameplay dynamics
- Homely Hills remains accessible above Pleasant Park for gnome search challenges
- New locations include The Fortilla, Rickety Rig, and Catty Corner with unique features
- Week 1 challenges require strategic navigation to flooded and new areas
- Master whirlpool mechanics and aquatic combat for optimal challenge completion
Fortnite’s Season 3 introduces dramatic geographical changes that have reshaped the entire battle royale landscape. The catastrophic flood triggered by Midas’ activation of The Device on June 15 has submerged more than half of the familiar terrain, forcing players to adapt to extensive aquatic environments. This transformation represents the most significant map overhaul in recent seasons, creating both obstacles and opportunities for strategic gameplay.
The massive flooding has rendered numerous previously accessible locations completely unreachable by conventional means. However, several key landmarks have managed to survive above water level, providing crucial footholds for navigation. Understanding which areas remain intact versus those now submerged is essential for effective movement and challenge completion during this transitional phase.
Season 3’s aquatic theme introduces new movement mechanics and combat considerations. Players must now account for swimming speed, underwater visibility, and the strategic use of whirlpools for rapid traversal across the expanded water coverage.
Several major locations have maintained their map positions despite the widespread flooding. Sweaty Sands and Salty Springs still exist in their original locations but now feature extensive water coverage that alters both traversal and combat dynamics. These flooded urban areas require adjusted approaches for looting and engagement.
Homely Hills, situated strategically above Pleasant Park, represents one of the few completely unaffected land areas. This elevated position has preserved its accessibility, making it a crucial destination for specific challenges like searching gnomes. The terrain advantage provides excellent sightlines for scouting surrounding flooded areas.
New points of interest have emerged to compensate for submerged territories. The Fortilla offers floating platform combat, Rickety Rig provides industrial verticality, and Catty Corner introduces close-quarters urban warfare in an otherwise aquatic environment.
Strategic positioning of Homely Hills makes it accessible despite widespread flooding
Navigation between these key locations requires understanding the new aquatic transportation options. Whirlpools serve as rapid transit systems, while loot sharks present both threat and opportunity for mobility items.
The inaugural week of Season 3 challenges focuses heavily on familiarizing players with the transformed map geography. These location-based tasks serve as both orientation exercises and skill development opportunities within the new environment.
Here are the essential location challenges requiring strategic completion:
- Damage Loot Sharks at Sweaty Sands – These aquatic predators now patrol flooded areas and provide valuable resources when eliminated
- Deal Damage within 10 seconds of landing from the whirlpool at Hydro 16 – Mastering whirlpool exit timing is crucial for this aggressive engagement
- Enter Catty Corner Vault – This new location contains secured loot requiring strategic approach and clearance
- Search Gnomes at Homely Hills – The elevated terrain provides safety but requires thorough exploration of the residential area
Common challenge completion mistakes include underestimating swimming vulnerability when approaching loot sharks and poor whirlpool exit positioning that leaves players exposed. Successful execution requires planning engagement angles and having appropriate weapons ready immediately upon landing.
Time estimates for these challenges vary significantly based on player skill and RNG factors. Gnome searching typically requires 2-3 matches for thorough coverage, while whirlpool damage challenges can often be completed in a single focused attempt with proper preparation.
Mastering Season 3’s aquatic environment requires adapting traditional Fortnite combat and movement strategies. The expanded water coverage means players should prioritize carrying at least one medium-to-long range weapon to engage enemies while traversing open water, where swimming significantly impairs defensive capabilities.
Whirlpool mechanics represent one of the most significant new gameplay elements. These natural transportation systems allow rapid map traversal but require careful exit planning. Always survey the landing area while in the whirlpool and have your weapon ready before emerging to maximize the 10-second damage window for challenges.
For the Homely Hills gnome search challenge, methodical building-by-building clearing proves most efficient. The gnomes typically spawn in predictable residential areas rather than open spaces, so focus search efforts on yards, porches, and indoor decorative areas.
When approaching vault challenges like Catty Corner, remember that these locations often become high-traffic areas immediately after the battle bus launch. Consider delayed approaches or alternative entry points to avoid early-game congestion and third-party engagements.
Advanced players should develop route plans that combine multiple challenge objectives into single matches. For example, landing at Hydro 16 for whirlpool damage, then rotating to Sweaty Sands for loot shark engagement can optimize completion efficiency. Similar strategic planning applies to weapon selection in other tactical games where loadout optimization is crucial.
Action Checklist
- Land directly at Homely Hills and systematically search each residential structure for gnomes
- Approach Sweaty Sands from high ground to spot loot sharks before engaging
- Use Hydro 16 whirlpools with weapon ready and immediate engagement upon exit
- Plan Catty Corner vault approach during mid-game when traffic decreases
- Combine challenge routes for efficiency: whirlpool to shark damage in single matches
No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » Fortnite Map: Homely Hills (Gnomes), Catty Corner, And Fortilla Locations Complete guide to Fortnite Season 3 map changes, challenge locations, and strategic navigation tips
