Fortnite has become more than just a shooter. There are many different game modes within the game. Players can build in the LEGO Fortnite or race their friends in Rocket Racing. Moreover, there is even a game mode for all the music lovers. Now they are working on a new game mode in Fortnite. This new Fortnite game mode has been rumored for over a year.
Players were able to uncover hidden files within the game system. They were able to find something called Fortnite Pimlico. The game mode is only known as Pimlico for now. However, with the start of the new year, these rumors have reached an all-time high. Several players were invited to try out the playtest for this game mode. Therefore, in this guide on the new Fortnite game mode, we will cover everything we know until now.
What is “Pimlico”?
Players have known that something new is coming for a while now. The codename Pimlico first surfaced in February 2025. This was again done via leakers like @Loolo_WRLD. While initially shrouded in mystery, subsequent leaks have painted a picture of a high-energy, physics-based sports mode. Imagine a competitive sports mode in your favorite game.
The Basketball Connection
Reports from October 2025 suggest that Pimlico is centered around basketball. However, this isn’t just a simple minigame. Epic Games has allegedly been struggling to integrate complex ball physics with the unique abilities and animations of Fortnite’s massive skin roster. Imagine a game where Godzilla, LeBron James, and Peter Griffin can all dunk on each other. That is the level of ambition rumored for this mode.
Space Jam vs. Fall Guys
Players can only guess what exactly the new game mode is. They have been looking at all the clues and pieces to get the picture. Players know that the game features basketball. The community has also made a connection to Fall Guys.
Two major theories have dominated the discussion:
- The Space Jam Theory: Early leaks linked Pimlico to a Warner Bros. collaboration. This makes the game mode something similar to Space Jams. The classic movie is known to mix basketball with other properties.
- The Fall Guys Reveal: The recent leak was our biggest clue. A leaker recently showed a picture of a Fall Guy character holding a basketball. This seems to be the final piece. Epic Games owns the team behind Fall Guys. This makes it more possible for the two games to finally come together.
Key Dates to Watch
For over a year, the game seemed like only rumors. But the recent news confirms that something new is definitely coming. Fans are getting a new mode much quicker than expected.
| Date | Event | Significance |
| January 21, 2026 | Gameplay Reveal | Content creators like Happy Happy Gal and Pack A Puncher will drop exclusive footage at 9 AM EST. |
| January 22, 2026 | Mode Launch (Expected) | Leaker @ShiinaBR expects the mode to go live with the v39.30 update. |
The Creator Playtests
Before the launch of any game, the developers invite playtesters. These are usually prominent figures in the community. Epic Games invited a few popular creators to try out the new game mode. This was also confirmed by these creators. So we can expect something very soon.
Their excitement suggests that Pimlico is polished. This game will be a stand-alone experience. It will be similar in scale to the LEGO or Racing modes, rather than just a Creative map. This just shows how Epic Games is still actively working on making the game more fun.
How Pimlico Fits into the Ecosystem
Epic Games has now mastered the live service model. Players can expect something very similar with new game mode in Fortnite. Pimlico is expected to follow the Live Service model of other Fortnite pillars. This means:
- Separate Ranking System: Much like Rocket Racing, you will likely have a basketball-specific rank to climb.
- Exclusive Rewards: Completing “Pimlico Quests” will likely grant free cosmetics, potentially including Fall Guys-themed back blings or basketball-related emotes.
- Cross-Progression: XP earned in Pimlico will count toward your main Chapter 7 Season 1 Battle Pass.
Get Ready for The Reveal!
This is all we know about the Fortnite Pimlico for now. Epic Games has announced an official gameplay reveal soon. Fans can expect something in the latter week of January. Fans are very excited to try out something new in their favorite game. This will be a highly competitive and fun game mode. You will either get a space jam type of basketball game or something that resembles Fall Guys. It will transform Fortnite in a even more immersive game. This will definitely expand the game to even more players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Pimlico a Limited Time Mode (LTM)?
No. All signs point to Pimlico being a permanent addition to the Fortnite ecosystem, appearing alongside the main Battle Royale tile in the “By Epic” discovery section.
Can I use my existing skins in the basketball mode?
Yes, but they may have unique “Sports” variants or animations. If the Fall Guys leak is accurate, your skin might even be “Bean-ified” when you enter the mode, similar to how skins have LEGO versions.
Will there be a special Battle Pass for Pimlico?
While not confirmed, Epic has previously released separate passes for Fortnite Festival (the Festival Pass). It is possible that Pimlico could launch with a “Hoops Pass” featuring basketball-themed gear.
Why the codename “Pimlico”?
Using a code name is a common practice in the industry. Epic Games is known to use codenames based on location. Pimlico is no different. It is basically a small area in London. However, we are not sure about the exact connection.
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Muhammad Shahzar is a seasoned gaming writer with roots in classic titles like Counter-Strike and Vice City. He has spent four years creating in-depth gaming articles and analyses and officially joined U7BUY in early 2024, where he delivers expert insights to readers.
He actively studies competitive games such as Valorant and Fortnite while also enjoying story-driven titles in his downtime. His work spans a wide range of genres, from EA Sports FC to Valheim, and he is committed to providing clear, accurate analysis so readers always get the information they need.