Epic Games is stepping into the competitive tactical FPS scene with its latest addition to Fortnite: Ballistic Mode, a first-person, five-on-five team-based shooter set to challenge the dominance of games like Counter-Strike and VALORANT.
Scheduled to launch on December 11, 2023, this exciting new mode combines traditional tactical shooter gameplay with the unique elements of the Fortnite universe.
What is Fortnite’s Ballistic Mode?
Ballistic introduces a fresh twist to Fortnite’s gameplay with a 5v5 tactical shooter format, where players will face off in a round-based attack-and-defense competition. The core goal is straightforward: teams alternate between attacking and defending as they aim to win seven rounds and claim victory.
This system mirrors popular FPS mechanics seen in Counter-Strike and VALORANT, but with the addition of Fortnite’s signature weapons, gadgets, and mechanics. Instead of traditional objectives like planting a bomb or defusing the spike, Ballistic introduces the Rift Point Device, a central objective to fight over in each round.
Gameplay Details and How It Works
The Map: Skyline 10
The first and currently only map in Ballistic Mode is Skyline 10, a visually captivating, Japanese-themed map. The map features familiar FPS elements, including:
- Two Bomb Sites: Classic A and B sites where strategic gameplay will revolve.
- Central Flank Areas: These spaces give players strategic opportunities to outmaneuver their opponents.
- Japanese-themed Aesthetic: Drawing visual inspiration from Epic’s art style and incorporating unique terrain and strategic positions.
The combination of traditional tactical shooter mechanics with the distinctive Fortnite style makes Skyline 10 a dynamic and visually appealing map that players will learn to master as they dive into the new game mode.
Starting Equipment and Progression
At the beginning of every match, players start with:
- Ranger Pistol
- 800 starting credits
As you secure kills and win rounds, you’ll earn additional credits. These credits can be spent on a variety of iconic Fortnite weapons from different seasons, such as:
- Assault Rifles
- Shotguns
- SMGs
- Sniper Rifles
- Tactical grenades like Smoke Grenades and Flashbangs
This credit-based system ensures every match rewards skilled performance and strategic decisions, allowing you to buy upgrades and customize your loadout throughout the match.
Introducing Flex Gadgets for Strategy and Personalization
Ballistic introduces a mechanic that allows players to select two out of five unique Flex Gadgets, adding another layer of strategy to team compositions and individual playstyles. These gadgets are:
- Proximity Mine: Use this to punish enemy flanks or trap key areas.
- Bubble Shield: Create defensive barriers for strategic cover.
- Recon Grenades: Scan the battlefield to give your team valuable intel.
- Frag Grenades: Classic explosives for area denial and pushing enemies.
- Impulse Grenades: Great for mobility or disorienting opponents.
These gadgets provide strategic depth and allow teams to craft their strategies and adapt their tactics on the fly.
Cosmetic Shenanigans: A Unique Fortnite Twist
One of the most unique elements of Ballistic Mode is the ability for players to pick any of their favorite Fortnite skins from their lockers. This means your tactical FPS team can look as unique as you want—whether you’re wielding a sniper rifle in combat or sporting a fun and whimsical skin.
This feature adds an extra layer of personality to the game, emphasizing Fortnite’s creativity and player customization options.
What About the Traditional Third-Person Battle Royale Experience?
If tactical shooters like Ballistic aren’t your style, you can stick to the traditional Fortnite battle royale experience. This means players can continue enjoying the third-person shooter experience in the current season alongside the Fortnite OG content.
Epic Games ensures that players have a choice between both modes, catering to different playstyles, whether you prefer fast-paced 5v5 strategic engagements or the dynamic, high-stakes battle royale format.
A New FPS Era for Fortnite
Epic Games’ introduction of Ballistic Mode represents an exciting shift into the tactical FPS genre while maintaining Fortnite’s iconic weapons and mechanics.
With the December 11 launch date fast approaching, Ballistic Mode is set to challenge traditional shooters like CS:GO and VALORANT while providing Fortnite fans with a fresh, innovative team-based FPS experience.
Stay tuned for the official launch and see how this dynamic new addition to Fortnite reshapes competitive gameplay. Will it prove to be the next big competitive shooter? Only time will tell.
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