Fortnite update v10.40 will add bots and skill-based matchmaking to the game

Epic Games has announced that the v10.40 update for Fortnite will add ‘improved matchmaking logic’ to matches that place players of similar skill together, and add bots to act as training dummies. 

Regarding the imbalanced B.R.U.T.E. mechs, Epic Games had previously stated that the core philosophy of Fortnite was ‘to bring players of all skill levels together to have a fun experience where anyone can win’. This initially referred to in-game items like the mechs or the Infinity Blade that gave one or two lucky players a huge advantage over the rest of the combatants. Now, the skill-based matchmaking system will actually level the playing fields of Tilted Town and Greasy Grove, by putting players of similar proficiencies in battles. This makes the experience more fun for everybody, as newbies won’t be instantly picked off by pro players, and high level players will contend with a greater and more variable challenge. 

In addition, bots will be coming to Fortnite in tandem with the matchmaking changes. Expectedly, they won’t be used in competitive matches, but Epic Games said that, ‘they [the bots] will behave similarly to normal players and will help provide a better path for players to grow in skill. The theory is that ‘as your skill improves, you’ll face fewer Bots’, but the changes will be subject to alterations when trialled in the next season of Fortnite.

Currently, the Fortnite X Batman event is live, and brings Gotham City to the topsy-turvy Rift Zone. Players are able to unlock rewards from Welcome to Gotham City Challenge Bundle, and two new items and two new skins are available as well. 

Fortnite is out now for iOS, Android, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch.