Fortnite’s dedication to innovation is clear, with game modes like LEGOFortnite, Rocket Racing, andFortniteFestival introduced as permanent additions over the past year. With the launch of Remix Chapter 2 andFortnite OGChapter 2, excitement is already high for Epic Games' popular title. Now, recent rumors suggestFortnitemay be taking things even further, possibly drawing inspiration fromOverwatch 2in an upcoming game mode.
Fortnitefirst gained widespread popularity in 2017 with its free-to-play Battle Royale mode. Later additions like LEGOFortniteand Zero Build also attracted sizable audiences, with LEGOFortnitedrawing 2.5 million players during its launch weekend. Expanding upon its current roster of game modes would broadenFortnite’s already impressive scope, and rumors of a 5v5 mode in development indicate Epic’s ongoing commitment to creativity.
Fortnite Could Be Developing Its Own Version of Overwatch 2
Leaks Hint at a New Core Mode in Development for Fortnite
On November 1, two well-knownFortniteleakers,HypeXandShiina, reported on X, formerly Twitter, that Epic Games is developing a “5v5 core mode.” While some hope it will be Search and Destroy being added back as apermanent mode toFortniterather than a Limited Time Mode (LTM), others speculate this might be the scrapped basketball mini-game rumored to have been tested in 2020. However, HypeX quickly dismissed this idea, noting that data shows the mode is rated “T,” indicating it’s likely a gunfight mode.
A “T” rating indicates content suitable for ages 13 and up. Titles in this category may include violence, suggestive themes, crude humor, mild blood, simulated gambling, and occasional strong language.
Strong speculation surrounds the debut of this mode in Epic Games' popular title, with the leakers citing December as a potential launch window. Since both HypeX and Shiina have suggested the mode will likely be released inFortniteChapter 6, the rumor may carry more credibility. Regardless, because Epic Games has yet to confirm or deny these rumors, it should be regarded as speculation for the time being.
A 5v5 Mode in Fortnite Has Major Potential
Currently, it’s uncertain whether this mode would incorporate building as a core mechanic, but a mode with a smaller player count could hold significant potential. For example, a 10-player lobby could introduce new dynamics toFortnite, similar to how new metas emerged whenOverwatchshifted from 6v6 to 5v5. A smaller lobby, with an objective-based approach and hero-shooter mechanics, could promote a more strategic mindset, encouraging players to collaborate closely and devise unique tactics that go beyond merely eliminating opponents. This adjustment could result in more intense and focused encounters, where each player’s decisions greatly impact the outcome of the match.
A 5v5 core game mode forFortnitecould draw inspiration not only fromOverwatch 2, but also from other 5v5shooters likeCounter-Strike,Rainbow Six Siege, andValorant. Epic Games has demonstrated its willingness to do this in the past, as seen with theSearch and DestroyLTM from 2020, which was based on theCall of Dutygame mode of the same name. The new game mode could build on this concept by emphasizing the importance of attacking or defending bomb sites to secure victory.
A 5v5 core game mode could draw inspiration not only from Overwatch 2, but also from other 5v5 shooters like Counter-Strike, Rainbow Six Siege, and Valorant.
Additionally, Creative Mode already features a variety of two-team experiences, like Team Deathmatch and Domination. However, the developers have yet to release an official version of the classic shooter formula. A fully developed5v5 mode inFortnitecould emphasize objectives more, similar to the various game modes inOverwatch 2, which as of Season 13 include:
Similar to Battle Royale, where players with fewer kills can still win the match,Overwatch 2is very much objective-based. This means that a team can secure victory by concentrating efforts on the objective, even if they don’t have the highest kill count. Hopefully, Epic Games will soon provide concrete details on whether a 5v5 core game mode is in development and what its gameplay might look like.
Fortnite
WHERE TO PLAY
Create, play, and battle with friends for free in Fortnite. Be the last player standing in Battle Royale and Zero Build, experience a concert or live event, or discover over a million creator made games, including racing, parkour, zombie survival, and more. Each Fortnite island has an individual age rating so you can find the one that’s right for you and your friends.Explore large, destructible environments where no two games are ever the same. Team up with friends by sprinting, climbing and smashing your way to earn your Victory Royale, whether you choose to build up in Fortnite Battle Royale or go no-builds in Fortnite Zero Build.Discover even more ways to play across thousands of creator-made game genres: adventure, roleplay, survival and more. Or, band together with up to three friends to fend off hordes of monsters in Save the World.
