Fortnite Ballistic - Game Mode Explained

Epic Games is taking Fortnite to the next level. The team has a whole new game mode prepared for us! Fortnite Ballistic is a first-person tactical 5v5 shooter set to debut in early access on December 11. It offers both Ranked and Unranked modes and it will surely be very different from Fortnite Battle Royale. Here's everything we know about the upcoming release.

What's Fortnite Ballistic?

Ballistic is a fast-paced, round-based game mode with no building mechanics (which are a classic Fortnite feature). Instead, players will engage in first-person firefights, relying on precision and tactics to secure victory. At launch, Ballistic will include only one map, Skyline 10, but there are plans for new maps, weapons, and features based on player feedback.

• In keeping with Fortnite’s style, players’ saved Outfits, Back Blings, Kicks, Wraps, Sprays, and Emotes will be present in Fortnite Ballistic.
• Items like Pickaxes, Contrails, and Vehicles won't be available as they don't fit this type of gameplay.

Fortnite Ballistic Gameplay

Each Ballistic match pits two teams against each other as Attackers and Defenders. Attackers must plant and protect a Rift Point Device, a reality-altering explosive, while Defenders work to stop its activation. Rounds end when one team is eliminated or the Rift Point Device explodes. After six rounds, teams switch roles, and the first team to win seven rounds wins.

Key features of Ballistic include:

• No respawns: Eliminated players must wait until the next round.
• Economy mechanics: Players earn Credits from eliminations and objectives, which can be spent on weapons and equipment at the start of each round.
• Carryover gear: Survive a round, and you keep your weapons and shields for the next.

Weapons and Equipment

Ballistic offers a range of firearms suited to different playstyles:

• Assault Rifles for mid-to-long-range combat.
• Shotguns for close-quarters encounters.
• Submachine Guns for quick, high-damage engagements.
• Sniper Rifles for precision eliminations.
• Pistols for reliable backup firepower.

Strategic players can also use tactical equipment like Smoke Grenades and Flashbangs.

Flex Gadgets

Fortnite Ballistic will also feature Flex Gadgets, special tools players select at the start of each match. These gadgets include:

• Proximity Mines: Perfect for setting traps.
• Bubble Shields: Temporary cover for advancing or defending.
• Recon Grenades: Reveals nearby enemies, even through walls.
• Frag Grenades: Classic explosives for clearing out enemies.
• Impulse Grenades: Useful for displacing enemies—or launching teammates into action.

Unranked and Ranked Play

• Unranked Mode: A relaxed environment for experimenting with strategies and gadgets.
• Ranked Mode: A competitive space where performance determines rank. Leaving a Ranked match results in penalties, while consistent wins boost your standing.

The game mode has matchmaking based on party averages in Ranked play to ensure fair competition. Player feedback will guide future adjustments to the ranking system.

Fortnite Ballistic Release Date

Fortnite Ballistic's early access will be available on December 11th. Read more about it here. Early access will focus on gathering player feedback.

Fortnite Ballistic is a new step for Epic Games. Starting December 11, players can jump into this fresh first-person experience and "go ballistic" on the battlefield.