Fortnite Beginner’s Guide: Tips for Success
Getting some guidance on how to play Fortnite can set you up for success before you drop into the action. If this is your first experience on the island, knowing the fundamentals will go a long way. The ultimate goal is to outlast every other player and be the last one standing, but there’s a lot more to experience than just that.
While there are numerous mechanics and gameplay systems to master, it can be tough to determine where to concentrate your efforts initially. However, investing time to understand the basics will give you a strong base as you aim for that first Victory Royale! If you feel overwhelmed, especially when surrounded by players with more experience, don’t be discouraged—stick with it, and you might find that Fortnite becomes your go-to game.
Fortnite for New Players
This beginner’s guide is designed to provide a solid starting point, helping you understand essential gameplay elements as you parachute down to the island. Drawing on the collective insights of our dedicated Fortnite experts, we’ve compiled the most vital information to ensure you are prepared to face off against 99 other players on the battlefield.
How to Play Fortnite: Essential Tips
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Don’t Expect to Keep Your Spawn Island Loot
On Spawn Island, you’ll see plenty of weapons and supplies, but anything you collect here does not carry over when the match starts. Use this time to practice; it’s short-lived as you’ll only be there until the match is full. Feel free to try out shooting, but remember it won’t inflict any damage. -
Delay Your Jump From the Battle Bus
As soon as the Battle Bus lets you jump, resist the urge to dive immediately. Instead, wait until about three seconds remain in the flight path to leap out. This strategy ensures fewer players land near you, reducing the chance of being attacked right away and giving you a better shot at loot. -
Your Glider Opens Automatically
Don’t worry about manually deploying your glider; it activates automatically when you reach a certain altitude. Focus on aiming for a structure to land on, as those often contain valuable items. -
Prioritize Small Shield Potions First
You’ll come across both small and large shield potions. Drink the small ones first, as you can’t use them if your shield is already above 50. The larger potions can be consumed at any time, so save them for when you’re ready. -
Begin With Assault Rifles or SMGs
As a newcomer, stick to using assault rifles or SMGs. They’re effective at close ranges. While you might want to use sniper rifles, keep in mind they aren’t useful for combat under about 75 meters. -
Understand the Rarity Scale
Weapons come in various rarity levels, from grey (common) to gold (legendary). Gold weapons deal significantly more damage, so grab them whenever possible. You can press the inventory button to check weapon stats. -
Use Headphones
Sound is key in Fortnite. Wearing headphones will help you hear footsteps and gunfire, giving you a tactical advantage. Knowing the direction of sounds can prepare you for incoming threats. -
Build Cover Before Healing
Whenever you need to heal, always construct walls around you first. Healing takes valuable seconds during which you’re vulnerable to attacks, so create a barrier to protect yourself. -
Beware of Fall Damage
Falling from heights above three stories can injure your character. Be mindful when jumping off buildings; either build ramps down or carefully slide down slopes. -
Gain the High Ground
In battles, aim to be elevated above your opponent. Use ramps to quickly build up to gain the advantage, giving you a better vantage point for attacking. -
Keep Healing Items Handy
Always have some bandages, med kits, or shield potions in your inventory. These items can be life-savers when you need to recover during intense moments. -
Leave Trees Partially Standing
When collecting wood from trees, stop when they have about 50 health left. This way, you don’t leave a conspicuous trail for other players to track you. -
Choose the Right Game Mode
Ensure you select your preferred mode before starting a match. You can play solo, in duos or squads, and there are options for both traditional Battle Royale and Zero Build modes. -
Crouching Reduces Noise
Move quietly by crouching, especially if you hear nearby players. This tactic allows you to sneak up on opponents without them noticing. -
Battle Pass for Extra Rewards
To unlock most in-game rewards, you’ll need to purchase the Battle Pass, which typically costs 950 V-Bucks. Make sure to participate in challenges to earn rewards. -
Your Pickaxe is Versatile
You can break nearly anything with your pickaxe. Don’t hesitate to use it to escape or gather materials, but be cautious of making noise when you’re trying to remain stealthy. -
Customize in Your Locker
Before each match, you can change your character’s skin, emotes, and items in your Locker. Once the match starts, you won’t be able to alter your loadout. - Collect Materials on the Go
Make gathering materials a regular habit as you move across the map. Use your pickaxe on trees, vehicles, and furniture to ensure you always have supplies for building structures.
With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the challenges of Fortnite. Enjoy your time on the island and may you achieve many Victory Royales!
