What is Kinetic Blade in Fortnite? The Ultimate Guide
The Kinetic Blade in Fortnite is a mythic melee weapon introduced to the game as part of Chapter 4 Season 1 and later reintroduced in various seasons and modes. It grants players unique mobility options by allowing them to dash short distances with a katana-like swing, damaging enemies and structures in their path. Its primary function is traversal, enabling quick escapes, aggressive pushes, and navigating the map efficiently. It also serves as a potent offensive tool when used strategically.
Understanding the Core Mechanics of the Kinetic Blade
The Kinetic Blade offers two main abilities, charged through regular use:
- Kinetic Dash: The primary function. Players can dash a short distance in any direction, damaging opponents they pass through and breaking structures. Multiple dashes can be chained together for increased mobility. Think of it as a short-range teleport with an offensive twist. The dash has a very short cooldown, allowing for rapid movement when used effectively.
- Kinetic Blade Attack: A powerful melee attack that deals significant damage to enemies. While not as frequently used as the dash due to its limited range, it provides a powerful close-quarters option.
The blade itself has a limited number of charges. Each dash consumes one charge, and the charges regenerate automatically over time. Players need to manage their charge levels carefully to maximize their mobility and offensive capabilities. Skilled players can strategically use these attacks, in combination, for ultimate advantage.
Availability and Rarity
As a mythic item, the Kinetic Blade is relatively rare. Its availability varies depending on the Fortnite season and the specific game modes active. Typically, it is found in specific locations, sometimes guarded by AI opponents, or obtained through challenges and events. Keep an eye on the Fortnite news feed and in-game notifications to learn where to find the Kinetic Blade in any given season. It is also important to understand that its rarity ensures its impact on the battlefield, making it a highly sought-after item for competitive and casual players alike.
Strategic Applications
The Kinetic Blade’s versatility makes it a valuable asset in various combat scenarios.
- Aggressive Pushes: Use the dash to quickly close the gap on opponents, disorient them, and deliver surprise attacks.
- Defensive Maneuvers: Evade incoming fire, create distance between you and your enemies, and reposition yourself strategically.
- Traversal: Quickly navigate the map, cross large gaps, and reach high vantage points.
- Breaking Structures: Breach enemy forts and create openings for attacks.
Mastering the Kinetic Blade requires practice and an understanding of its limitations. Learning to chain dashes together, time attacks effectively, and conserve charges will significantly improve your performance in combat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much damage does the Kinetic Blade do?
The damage output of the Kinetic Blade varies depending on the attack. The Kinetic Dash deals a moderate amount of damage to opponents it passes through, while the Kinetic Blade Attack deals significantly more damage at closer range. Specific damage numbers are subject to balance changes by Epic Games.
2. How many charges does the Kinetic Blade have?
The number of charges the Kinetic Blade holds typically varies depending on the Fortnite season or event. When introduced in Chapter 4 Season 1 it initially had three charges. In general, the charge capacity is designed to balance its mobility with its potential for abuse, encouraging strategic use. Check the specific item description in-game for the current charge count.
3. How quickly do Kinetic Blade charges regenerate?
The regeneration rate of Kinetic Blade charges is designed to allow for sustained mobility without being overpowered. The exact regeneration time varies depending on the season but is generally fast enough to allow for frequent dashes with brief pauses for recharge.
4. Can the Kinetic Blade break through builds?
Yes, the Kinetic Dash can break through structures, making it an effective tool for breaching enemy forts and creating openings for attack. This capability adds a strategic element to build fights.
5. Where can I find the Kinetic Blade?
The locations where you can find the Kinetic Blade change depending on the Fortnite season and the game modes active. Keep an eye on the in-game news feed and community channels for updates on specific spawn locations and methods for obtaining it. It often spawns in guarded areas.
6. Is the Kinetic Blade available in all Fortnite game modes?
The availability of the Kinetic Blade in different game modes is subject to change based on Epic Games’ decisions. It might be featured in core modes like Battle Royale and Zero Build, or it may be exclusive to limited-time modes (LTMs) and special events.
7. Does the Kinetic Blade have a cooldown?
Yes, while the individual Kinetic Dash has a very short cooldown, there is a brief cooldown period after each dash. This prevents players from spamming dashes and encourages strategic use of the weapon.
8. Does the Kinetic Blade take up an inventory slot?
Yes, the Kinetic Blade occupies one inventory slot, just like any other weapon or item in Fortnite. This requires players to carefully consider whether to carry it alongside their other weapons and consumables.
9. Can I use the Kinetic Blade while sliding?
Yes, you can use the Kinetic Blade while sliding, which can add an extra layer of mobility and unpredictability to your movements. This can be particularly useful for dodging enemy fire and closing the gap on opponents.
10. Does the Kinetic Blade work in water?
Yes, the Kinetic Blade can be used while swimming. It can propel you through the water quickly.
11. How can I counter someone using the Kinetic Blade against me?
Countering the Kinetic Blade requires quick reflexes and strategic positioning. Effective strategies include:
- Building: Quickly build walls or structures to block the user’s path and disrupt their dashes.
- Long-Range Weapons: Engage from a distance with snipers or assault rifles to punish aggressive dashes.
- Shotguns: If the user gets too close, use a shotgun for high burst damage at close range.
- Traps: Place traps in strategic locations to catch unsuspecting players who are relying on the blade for movement.
12. Is the Kinetic Blade better than other mobility items like the Grapple Glove?
The Kinetic Blade and other mobility items like the Grapple Glove offer different advantages. The Kinetic Blade provides short-range bursts of speed and damage, while the Grapple Glove allows for longer-range traversal and verticality. The best choice depends on your play style and the specific situation.
13. Can I use the Kinetic Blade to escape the storm?
Yes, the Kinetic Blade’s mobility can be extremely useful for quickly escaping the storm and reaching safety. Its fast dashes allow you to cover ground rapidly and outpace the storm’s advance.
14. Does the Kinetic Blade have any special skins or cosmetic variations?
Typically, the Kinetic Blade does not have separate skins like normal weapons. However, depending on the season, the visual appearance might slightly vary to match the theme.
15. Is the Kinetic Blade a good weapon for beginners?
While the Kinetic Blade can be fun and rewarding to use, it may require some practice and skill to master its movement and combat capabilities. Beginners may find it easier to use more conventional weapons initially, but experimenting with the Kinetic Blade can certainly add a new dimension to their gameplay.