Is Zero Build the future of Fortnite?

Fortnite Zero Build exploded as major creators flocked back to the game. Tfue, Nickmercs, xQc, Ludwig, and more returned to Fortnite. The game mode without building returned the title to its former glory. Everyone was talking about Fortnite. The question remains; Will Zero Build last?

Upon the release of Chapter 3 Season 2, Fortnite removed building from the core game mode. It occurred as part of the storyline, but the community loved it. Players, content creators, and competitors all enjoyed the new mode.

A new wave of players flocked to Fortnite and many old players returned. Several notable creators such as Tfue, Nickmercs, Ludwig, Myth and others, played Fortnite for the first time in a long time. Not only did they play, but the creators enjoyed the game.

Fortnite had not seen this kind of support or interest from creators in a long time. Over the past year, only five other events created a higher peak viewership, according to Sullygnome.com. Those events were all in-game events that only lasted a short period of time, such as the Fortnite Ariana Grande concert on August 7th, 2021.

However, Fortnite Zero Build has created prolonged viewership and attention. Players and creators are once again enjoying Fortnite. The high skill level of the game and "sweats" pushed casual gamers away. Zero Build leveled the playing field so that endless hours are not required to participate.

Based on community sentiment, Zero Build works because it simplifies the game. This comes from both a player and spectator perspective. Content Creator and Caster, SanchoWest shared his thoughts, "As I streamed, I've had so many people say they are able to play with their friends again and even parents are able to play with their kids again. When people say, 'I miss old Fortnite'. It's that feeling."

The top Fortnite players have surpassed the average player by miles. Fortnite became too difficult to play and the lack of building makes it much easier for the average player to enjoy. A similar sentiment was expressed by another creator and caster, Reisshub said "As an introduction to the game for new players and a way for content creators to relax, something the game has been missing for a long time if you aren’t a very high-level player."

It is the perfect storm for players new and old to get a break from the incredibly difficult game that is Fortnite. Even professional Fortnite players believe that Fortnite Zero Build was a great addition.

Fortnite veteran, Liquid Scoped had this to say, "Personally I think Zero Build is good for the game as an addition to regular FNCS/ Cash Cup tournaments. It brings a lot of viewership back and makes it so anybody can play and compete."

Zero Build can become part of the funnel for Fortnite. New players first begin to learn the game without building. Then they advance to low-level lobbies with bots and a few other players.

As players advance in skill, they can be added to more competitive lobbies. Additionally, these players will always have an option to play the other modes. As the responses above stated, Zero Build works for everyone.

The instant popularity of Fortnite without building leaves the question; will this overtake the main mode? Simply put, no. Fortnite became the game it is today because of the building mechanics. They will not go anywhere, but there is room for this new mode.

Although, Fortnite Zero Build is refreshing and fun it cannot replace the core game. Together, the two can live in harmony as the modes provide variety.

Additionally, the developer and third-party tournament organizers should continue to host events in both modes. The Zero Build mode attracts large creators and new viewers, while the core competitive mode maintains a growing and passionate fanbase.

Some players love the new mode, while others are hesitant to embrace it. The players that dislike Zero Build tend to be competitive players worried about the mode taking over the game they love. Although, not all competitive players are resisting the change.

Professional Fortnite player, Npen believes there will be more Zero Build events. "Personally, I see the Zero Build mode becoming more prominent in competitive and I believe if there is a world cup or another large tournament of the sorts in the future then we will see the Zero Build game mode as a part of it for sure."

Npen sees a future with the new mode thriving alongside the current competitive mode. Another pro, FaZe Cented, showed less faith in Zero Build. He said, "I see it dying out when people play it more and more...I think Build modes should be competitive and Zero Build modes should remain 3rd party content creator tournaments."

Regardless of competitive sentiment, Fortnite Zero Build is here to stay. For veterans of the game, it brings back that joy reminiscent of early Fortnite. For new players, it offers an opportunity to learn. Ultimately, the removal of the core game mechanic caused a massive resurgence and shows that Fortnite still has plenty of cards to play.