Heat Level in Fortnite explained: Perks and how to raise your Heat cover image

Heat Level in Fortnite explained: Perks and how to raise your Heat

The Fortnite Heat Level system is a new risk-reward mechanic that offers players perks but at the cost of putting them in more danger.

What is the Heat System in Fortnite?

The Heat Level system is new risk/reward mechanic in Fortnite that rewards players who perform well by granting them perks in-game such as increased health regen and movement speed. The system aims to make the game more engaging for both experienced and new players.

The Heat system was introduced as part of the Fortnite Most Wanted event which is live until Feb. 28, 2023.

In Duos, trios and squads your heat levels are combined into your Team Heat
In Duos, trios and squads your heat levels are combined into your Team Heat

How to see my Heat Level?

Your Heat Level is visible from the moment you load into the game. It is displayed as four flame silhouettes.

You start at Heat Level 0
You start at Heat Level 0

How to raise Heat Level in Fortnite?

To increase your Heat Level you need to be notorious. In other words you need to perform actions that build your reputation as a threat.

Ways you can increase your Heat Level:

  • Eliminate multiple players in a short space of time
  • Defeat Cold Blooded bosses
  • Attack Cold Blood enemies
  • Answer Burner Pay Phones
  • Open Vaults
  • Open Chests
Be warned increase your Heat Level also reveals your location
Be warned increase your Heat Level also reveals your location

When you start any game you will begin with Heat Level Zero. Each Heat Level gained will grant you certain perks. However, be warned that increasing your Heat Level also reveals your location. Epic Games also shared that your Fortnite Heat Level also makes you "more visible in the environment" and Cold Blooded enemies are more likely to attack you.

An overview of the perks available

Heat Level
Perks
Zero
No Perks
One
Eliminated enemies will drop more Bars
Two
Up to 100% health regeneration
Movement speed increase +15%
Three
Up to 100% health regeneration
Up to 50% shield regeneration
Movement speed increase +20%
Four
Up to 100% health regeneration
Up to 100% shield regeneration
Movement speed increase +25%
At Heat Level Four you will receive all three perks to health, movement and Bars drop rate.
At Heat Level Four you will receive all three perks to health, movement and Bars drop rate.

Tips

Increasing your Heat Level comes with benefits to movement speed and health regen, but also dangers such as enemies knowing your location.

If you want the perks but don't want the early game fight, you can raise your Heat by completing non-combat actions such as opening chests or paying Bars to answer burner phones.

One Most Wanted quest is to reach level 4 Heat Level
One Most Wanted quest is to reach level 4 Heat Level

In a team game your Fortnite Heat Level is combined, so even if you want to play on the edge and loot up, if your team-mates have other ideas then you will soon be hunted! So make sure to coordinate with your friends or team-mates whether you want to play it sneaky or go guns blazing.

When it comes to the late game having Heat is a massive advantage as it offers you a quick way to heal up while engaging multiple enemies. Do remember that the health and shield regeneration only works if you are not in combat, so maybe pick up a Bush Bomb.

What is the difference between Heat Level and Team Heat?

If you're playing Solo the system will be called Heat Level. If you are playing Fortnite duos, trios or squads, then all of your team-mates Heat Levels are combined and called your Team Heat.

Be warned that your Heat Level does not decrease over time.