Fortnite, the battle royale phenomenon, can be daunting for newcomers. Jumping into the island without some advice can be a tough start to your journey. The goal is simple: be the last player standing. However, beneath the surface lies a complex world of gameplay systems and mechanics. This beginner’s guide to Fortnite will break down the essentials, providing a solid foundation for new players aiming for that coveted Victory Royale. Don’t be intimidated by experienced players; with dedication, Fortnite might become your next favorite game.
Fortnite Basics: Essential Tips for New Players
This beginner’s guide to Fortnite distills the knowledge of experienced players, providing crucial information to help you thrive on the island. Whether you’re learning the map, mastering combat, or understanding building mechanics, these tips will set you on the path to success. So, buckle up, thank the bus driver, and prepare to dive into the world of Fortnite!
1. Spawn Island is Just for Practice
Before the real match begins, you’ll find yourself on Spawn Island. Guns and materials are scattered around, tempting you to grab them. While you can pick them up and practice your aim, remember that these items won’t carry over to the main game. Treat Spawn Island as a warm-up zone to familiarize yourself with the controls and test your building skills before the match begins. Try building a quick sniping platform; this can be a useful skill later in the game.
2. Time Your Jump From the Battle Bus
The Battle Bus horn signals when you can jump, but resist the urge to immediately join the crowd. Waiting until the last few seconds before the bus reaches the end of its path will give you a significant advantage. You’ll encounter fewer opponents at your landing spot, reducing the risk of early elimination and increasing your chances of finding valuable loot. Aim for houses or structures, as they often contain chests or at least basic supplies.
3. The Glider Deploys Automatically
Don’t worry about manually deploying your glider. It automatically opens at a certain height above the ground. Focus on steering towards your desired landing spot, which ideally should be a loot-filled structure, and prepare for your arrival. Patience is key.
4. Small Shield Potions First, Then Big Ones
Blue shield potions are essential for boosting your defense. Small potions grant 25 shield, while large ones offer 50. A key strategy is to consume small shield potions before using large ones. Once you reach 50 shield, you can’t use more small potions, so using them first prevents wasting inventory space. Large potions can be used regardless of your current shield level.
5. Assault Rifles and SMGs for Beginners
When starting out, prioritize assault rifles and SMGs. Sniper rifles are less effective at close range, so save them for later. In close-quarters combat, shotguns are your best friend. They deal massive damage and can secure one-hit kills, making them ideal for clearing houses and other confined spaces.
6. Understanding Weapon Rarity
Fortnite uses a color-coded rarity system: grey (common), green, blue, purple, and gold (legendary). Gold weapons are the most powerful, so grab them whenever you find them. Access your inventory by pressing Up on the D-pad. Hovering over weapons reveals their damage stats, helping you decide which ones to keep.
7. Headphones are a Must
Invest in a good pair of headphones. Hearing enemy footsteps and gunshots, and pinpointing their direction, can be the difference between survival and elimination. Knowing where your opponents are coming from gives you precious seconds to prepare, whether it’s switching weapons or building cover.
8. Build Cover Before Healing
Always build walls around yourself before attempting to heal or drink shield potions. These actions take several seconds, leaving you vulnerable. Walls provide crucial protection from incoming fire. Remember that walls can be built even on uneven terrain like cliffs and hills.
9. Fall Damage is Real
Falling from significant heights (more than three stories) will damage your health. Build ramps downwards or slide down hills and cliffs to avoid injury. This isn’t Borderlands; gravity matters!
10. High Ground Advantage
Securing the high ground is crucial in a firefight. Build ramps or jump repeatedly to gain a vertical advantage, making yourself harder to hit. A useful strategy is to build a square of four walls around yourself, then a ramp facing your enemy. This creates a sniping platform with a quick escape route.
11. Carry Healing Items
Always keep bandages, med kits, or shield potions in your inventory. These items provide crucial health and shield boosts when you’re in a tight spot. You can also share them with teammates in need of assistance.
12. Don’t Completely Destroy Trees
When harvesting wood, avoid completely destroying trees. Stop when the tree has about 50 health remaining. Leaving a trail of destroyed vegetation makes it easy for other players to track your movements.
13. Select the Right Game Mode
Upon launching the game, you’ll be automatically placed into a squad. If you prefer to play solo, duo, or trio, be sure to select your desired game mode before starting a match. You can also choose between Battle Royale and Zero Build modes, or even try Fortnite Ranked once you’re comfortable with the basics.
14. Crouch for Stealth
Crouching minimizes the noise your feet make, allowing you to move more stealthily. This is especially useful when you suspect enemies are nearby, as it gives you time to find a better hiding spot or prepare an ambush.
15. The Battle Pass Offers More Rewards
While some rewards are available for free, the Battle Pass unlocks the majority of the best skins and items. It costs 950 V-Bucks (approximately $9.99 / £7.99). Once purchased, complete quests and challenges to earn exclusive gear.
16. Your Pickaxe Can Break (Almost) Anything
If you find yourself trapped inside a building or structure, don’t panic! Your pickaxe can break through almost anything. Be mindful that using your pickaxe creates noise, alerting nearby players to your location.
17. Customize Your Look in the Locker
The Locker is where you customize your character’s appearance with skins, emotes, gliders, and more. Make sure you’re happy with your selections before dropping into a match, as you can’t change them mid-game.
18. Harvest Materials While Moving
Building is crucial for survival and gaining an advantage in Fortnite. To build, you need materials. Harvest wood, stone, and metal by destroying objects like trees, rocks, and vehicles. As you move between locations, constantly harvest materials to ensure you always have enough resources for building.
This beginner’s guide to Fortnite provided key elements that are sure to set any new player to get the upper hand against their competition. While aim is important, building effectively will increase your chances of achieving victory.
