patch · February 13, 2024
Apex Legends Breakout Update Brings 120Hz Mode, Crafting 2.0, and Legend Upgrades
Apex Legends Season 20 introduces the Breakout update, adding a 120Hz performance mode for current-gen consoles, a complete rework of the crafting system, and in-match Legend upgrades. Players can also access free rotating Legends throughout the season and drop into Olympus, Storm Point, and World's Edge.
Respawn Entertainment has launched the Breakout update for Apex Legends, bringing major foundational changes to console performance, crafting mechanics, and in-match progression. Current-gen hardware now supports a high-framerate rendering option, while replicators undergo a complete overhaul.
120Hz Performance Mode on Current-Gen Consoles
PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S players with 120Hz displays can now select a performance mode targeting 120 FPS. This relies on a new multithreaded rendering system built on the Rendering Hardware Interface, replacing the older single-threaded rendering code that previously limited performance on modern hardware.
Crafting 2.0 and Replicator Rework
Crafting materials and rotating inventory are removed from the game. Replicators are now free to use and restricted to printing Shield Batteries, Medkits, Ammo, and Player Banners. Each replicator exhausts after a single use, but the base number of spawned replicators per match increases to 12, with an additional airdrop at the start of Round 4. Quality-of-life adjustments include reduced interaction times, inventory access directly from the crafting menu, and auto-ejection of printed items.
In-Match Legend Upgrades
A new progression system allows players to earn EVO points during battle royale matches to level up both armor and individual Legends. Reaching levels 2 and 3 unlocks unique ability upgrades tailored to specific playstyles, resetting fresh at the start of every match.
Breakout Rewards and Map Pool
Every two weeks, a different Legend becomes free to play for the remainder of the season, accompanied by challenges to unlock them permanently alongside rewards like the Reactive Top Tier Flatline and Runaway Renegade Wraith. The map rotation for Trios and Duos features Olympus, Storm Point, and World's Edge, where Rampart's Big Maude offers free paintball weapons from vending machines.
Why this patch matters
Breakout alters match pacing by shifting crafting into a free, single-use resource and introducing mid-match build choices via Legend upgrades.