Fortnite’s new ‘Duo Expert’ mode FINALLY removes bots from OG

Matthew "MJP" Pryor

Matthew "MJP" Pryor

Fortnite’s new ‘Duo Expert’ mode is what OG players have wanted for a long time. Here’s everything you need to know!

Fortnite OG was once a record-breaking game mode when it became permanent in Dec. 2024. However, it has become a shell of its former self, suffering from a low player count and little interest from the base. The new 'Duo Expert' option might be a savior for a game mode that had so much promise.

This article outlines everything you need to know, including how this new mode should give players everything they've wanted since OG came back.

What is Duo Expert in Fortnite?

This option is specific to the Fortnite OG playlist, meaning it's unavailable in standard Battle Royale and Zero Build. It essentially brings back the "old school" matchmaking style from OG Fortnite, removing bots and skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) from the equation.

Bots and SBMM have remained a point of contention since Fortnite OG returned over a year ago. Players found themselves unchallenged by these matches, which presumably led to lower numbers. Although it took some time, Epic Games has finally added an option that eliminates bots and SBMM.

While only Duo Expert is available at the moment, it seems likely that Epic Games will add Expert options for Solos and Squads if the Duo version performs well.

What are players saying about the new OG game mode?

The reaction on the FortniteBR subreddit wasn't what many anticipated. Many have outlined that the old school matchmaking style may not have aged well. Fortnite's general player base has increased in skill, which generally makes matches for casual players much more challenging.

Reddit user ComfortablePatience indicated that the initial relaunch of Fortnite OG brought back the true OG feeling, where every decision mattered. Others said it's a simple request to play against other players as opposed to bots in a PvP game mode.

No matter where you stand on the argument, the Duo Expert option now exists for Fortnite players looking for a sweat while the non-Expert options are there for everyone else.

Stay tuned to esports.gg for more Fortnite and esports news!