07.08.2023 - Fortnite, developed by Epic Games, burst onto the gaming scene in 2017 and quickly became a global phenomenon. With its vibrant graphics, intense gameplay, and unique building mechanics, the game has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide. If you're a beginner looking to dive into the action-packed world of Fortnite, this comprehensive guide will take you through the basics and help you get started on your journey to becoming a formidable player.
Photo: Vlad Gorshkov
What is Fortnite?
Fortnite is an online multiplayer battle royale game that drops players into a colorful and ever-changing virtual island. The primary goal is to be the last player or team standing. The game combines aspects of survival, exploration, shooting, and building, creating a unique experience that appeals to players of various skill levels.
The game features two primary modes:
-
Battle Royale: In this mode, you compete against 99 other players (individual or in squads) in a massive map. Players start with nothing and must scavenge for weapons, resources, and equipment while eliminating opponents. As the match progresses, the playable area shrinks due to an encroaching storm, forcing players into a smaller space and intensifying the battles. The last player or team alive wins the match.
-
Save the World: Originally the primary mode, Save the World is a cooperative player-versus-environment (PvE) mode where players team up to fight against hordes of AI-controlled zombies known as Husks. This mode is distinct from the Battle Royale mode and requires a purchase to access.
In this guide, we will focus on the Battle Royale mode, which is the most popular and accessible version of the game.
Getting Started
1. Download and Install Fortnite
Fortnite is available on multiple platforms, including PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. To get started, visit the official Fortnite website or your platform's app store and download the game. The installation process is straightforward and well-guided.
2. Creating an Epic Games Account
To play Fortnite, you'll need to create an Epic Games account. This account will be your gateway to accessing the game and tracking your progress. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account.
3. The Lobby
After installing Fortnite and logging in, you'll find yourself in the main lobby. This is where you can access different game modes, manage your settings, and choose your cosmetics (skins, emotes, gliders, etc.). Before jumping into a match, take some time to familiarize yourself with the lobby's layout and customize your character to your liking.
Understanding the Gameplay
1. The Basics of Battle Royale
In Fortnite Battle Royale, the goal is simple: be the last player or team standing. Here are the core gameplay elements you should know:
A. Dropping In
At the start of each match, all players board the Battle Bus, a flying vehicle that traverses the island. You can choose when and where to jump from the bus. Use this time to strategize your landing spot. Note that the closer you drop to other players, the more intense the early-game fights will be.
B. Scavenging and Gathering Resources
Once you land, quickly search buildings, chests, and supply crates for weapons, ammunition, healing items, and building materials. The latter, often gathered from trees, rocks, and other structures, will become essential for constructing defenses and navigating the terrain.
C. The Storm
As the match progresses, a deadly storm will gradually shrink the safe zone on the island. If you find yourself outside the safe zone, your health will deplete rapidly. Keep an eye on the map and the timer to stay ahead of the storm and avoid being caught in it.
D. Eliminating Opponents
The heart of Fortnite's Battle Royale mode lies in combat. Use your collected weapons and resources to eliminate opponents. Keep in mind that the goal is not to get the most kills, but to be the last player or team alive. Be cautious and pick your battles wisely.
2. Building Mechanics
One of the defining features of Fortnite is its building mechanics. Players can construct walls, floors, ramps, and roofs using gathered materials. This aspect adds a layer of strategy and creativity to the game. Here's a brief overview of building basics:
A. Building Controls
-
Walls: Press the corresponding button to create a wall in front of you. Walls are excellent for immediate cover and blocking enemy shots.
-
Ramps: Ramps can help you climb steep terrains and give you an elevated position in fights.
-
Floors: Floors act as a stable platform and can be used to create a bridge between structures or cover traps.
-
Roofs: Roofs provide overhead protection and can be useful when building a defensive structure.
B. Gathering Materials
You can gather materials by using your pickaxe to break down various objects like trees, rocks, and buildings. Wood, stone, and metal are the three types of building materials available, each with different properties in terms of durability and construction speed.
C. Building Tips
-
Practice building structures quickly to gain an advantage in battles.
-
Always be aware of your surroundings and potential ambushes while building.
-
Experiment with different building combinations to find what works best for you.
3. Weapons and Equipment
Fortnite offers a wide array of weapons and equipment to suit different playstyles. Here are the main categories of items you'll encounter:
A. Weapons
-
Assault Rifles: Versatile weapons suitable for most engagements.
-
Shotguns: Short-range, high-damage weapons ideal for close-quarters combat.
-
Sniper Rifles: Long-range precision weapons for accurate shots.
-
SMGs (Submachine Guns): Rapid-fire weapons effective in close combat.
-
Pistols: Sidearms for backup or early-game engagements.
-
Explosives: Grenades, rocket launchers, and grenades that deal area-of-effect damage.
B. Healing and Shields
-
Medkits: Restore health to 100.
-
Bandages: Heal a small amount of health.
-
Shield Potions: Restore shield points.
-
Chug Jugs and Slurp Juice: Restore both health and shield over time.
C. Special Items
-
Grappler: Launches a grappling hook to quickly move through the environment.
-
Glider Redeploy: Allows you to redeploy your glider during the match.
-
Launch Pad: A deployable pad that launches players into the air for a glider redeploy.
4. Solo, Duo, and Squad Play
Fortnite offers several gameplay options: Solo, Duo, and Squad. In Solo, you compete alone against 99 other players. Duo allows you to team up with a friend or another player to tackle the challenges together. Squad mode consists of teams of four players competing against each other. Communication and teamwork play a vital role in Duo and Squad modes.
Strategies for Beginners
Now that you have a grasp of the basics, let's discuss some strategies and tips that can help beginners improve their gameplay:
1. Land Wisely
Choosing the right landing spot can significantly impact your early-game experience. Landing in popular areas, such as Tilted Towers (formerly) or Retail Row, often means facing intense combat right off the bat. If you're new to the game, consider landing in less crowded areas to have a better chance at finding loot and surviving the initial phases of the match.
2. Prioritize Survival
In Fortnite, survival is the ultimate goal. While seeking engagements is part of the fun, staying alive and making it to the late game is crucial. Be cautious when engaging enemies, and remember that discretion is sometimes the better part of valor.
3. Master Building
Building can be intimidating for beginners, but it's a crucial aspect of Fortnite gameplay. Spend time practicing building structures, particularly ramps and walls, to protect yourself during battles. Building can save you from tight situations and turn the tide of a fight in your favor.
4. Use Headphones
Sound is essential in Fortnite. You can hear enemy movements, gunshots, and building sounds from a distance. Using headphones will give you a significant advantage in detecting nearby opponents and reacting accordingly.
5. Pay Attention to the Map
Keep an eye on the map to be aware of the storm's movement and to plan your route to stay inside the safe zone. Being caught outside the safe zone can lead to a quick elimination, so staying aware of the map is critical.
6. Engage in Building Battles
Don't be afraid to engage in building battles with other players. Building quickly and efficiently can give you a significant advantage and allow you to gain high ground and surprise your opponents.
7. Experiment with Sensitivity Settings
Fortnite's sensitivity settings can significantly impact your gameplay. Experiment with different sensitivity levels to find what works best for your aiming and building skills.
8. Learn from Experienced Players
Watching and learning from experienced Fortnite players on platforms like Twitch or YouTube can provide valuable insights and strategies. Pay attention to their gameplay, building techniques, and decision-making.
9. Be Patient and Keep Practicing
Fortnite takes time to master. Don't get discouraged by early losses or setbacks. Stay patient, keep practicing, and you'll improve over time.
