Can I Play a Private Fortnite Match? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can play a private match in Fortnite, offering a more controlled and personalized gaming experience. However, the methods and features available for creating private matches have nuances that are important to understand. While the game does not offer traditional “private servers” in the way some other games might, it provides custom matchmaking and private party settings that allow you to play with specific friends or in exclusive matches. This article will guide you through the different ways you can enjoy a more private Fortnite experience and answer all your related questions.
Understanding Private Matches in Fortnite
The concept of a “private match” in Fortnite is multifaceted and doesn’t exist in the traditional sense of having a completely separate server. Instead, Fortnite offers different settings and features to control who you play with.
Custom Matchmaking
One of the most significant ways to create a private match is through Custom Matchmaking. This feature allows creators, popular streamers, and those who have requested access from Epic Games to set up a match with a unique code. This code can be shared with specific players who can then join the private game using the code. This method is typically used for larger, organized events and is not available to every player by default. The feature allows for matches using any Fortnite: Battle Royale mode.
Party Privacy Settings
Fortnite also offers party privacy settings, which allow you to control who can join your party. By setting your party privacy to “Private,” only invited players can join your game. This method is ideal for playing with a specific group of friends and prevents random players from entering your matches. Players can also set their party to “Friends Only,” allowing anyone on their friends list to join freely, or “Public” which allows anyone to join.
Creative Mode Servers
Within Creative Mode, you can have some level of control over who can join your server. While it’s not fully private in the traditional sense, you can limit it to just friends or have it open to anyone, including those not in your party, by setting your Privacy option to “Friends” or “Public”.
How to Set Up a Private Fortnite Game
Here is a step-by-step guide on controlling the privacy of your Fortnite matches:
Setting Party Privacy
- Open the Menu: Click on the cog icon in the top-right corner of the lobby screen.
- Access Party Privacy: Select the “Party Privacy” option.
- Choose Your Setting: Select “Public,” “Friends Only,” or “Private.”
- Public: Anyone can join your party without an invite.
- Friends Only: Only players on your friends list can join without an invite.
- Private: Only players who you invite can join.
Joining a Friend’s Creative Server
- Open the Social Panel: Locate the social panel within the game.
- Find Your Friend: Locate the friend you want to join.
- Join Creative Server: If your friend is in a Creative server with either “Friends” or “Public” visibility set, click their name and select the “Join Creative Server” option.
Using Custom Matchmaking
- Note: Access to this feature is limited. Players must request this feature and often require a large following on platforms like Twitch or YouTube.
- Obtain a Custom Matchmaking Key: If you have access, generate a custom matchmaking key.
- Share the Code: Share the code with specific players you want to invite.
- Join the Match: Players must enter the custom matchmaking code on the game mode selection screen to join.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Fortnite have a private mode?
Yes, Fortnite does have a “private mode” through its Party Privacy settings. Setting your party to “Private” ensures only players you invite can join your matches. You can also achieve a similar experience using custom matchmaking, though this is less accessible to most players.
2. Can I play Fortnite by myself?
Yes, you can play Fortnite by yourself in Solo mode. There are four modes available: Solo, Duo, Trio, and Team. Solo mode drops you into a Battle Royale match alone.
3. Can you play Fortnite with just friends?
Yes, you can play Fortnite with just friends using a combination of Private Party settings and inviting them to your party. You can also join them in their Creative servers.
4. How do I join a private creative server on Fortnite?
You can join a friend’s Creative server by selecting “Join Creative Server” in their social panel profile. Your friend’s server must have the Privacy option set to “Friends” or “Public” to allow this.
5. Can you play Fortnite without online players?
No, Fortnite is a completely online experience. There is no offline mode available, so you always need an internet connection.
6. Can 2 players play Fortnite together?
Yes, two players can play Fortnite together in Duo mode, where you will be paired as a team against other duos. You can also play together in Split-Screen mode on compatible platforms.
7. Is Fortnite okay for 7 year olds?
The Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) rates Fortnite “T” for teen (13 and up). Common Sense Media also recommends it for ages 13 and up due to violence and open chat. Parental discretion is advised.
8. Is Fortnite worth it for adults?
Yes, Fortnite can be worthwhile for adults due to its depth and silliness, making it an enjoyable and engaging game for all ages.
9. What age limit is Fortnite?
The age restriction for Fortnite is 12+ by PEGI due to its mild violence.
10. What is a Fortnite private server?
A “Fortnite private server” is not the same as in other games. It is typically achieved through custom matchmaking, where matches can be set up with unique codes. Traditional private servers require modified client software, which is not officially supported and can lead to bans.
11. How many users can play simultaneously in a Fortnite battle?
Fortnite Battle Royale typically has up to 100 players per match, either in solo, duo, trio, or team mode.
12. How do I set up split-screen on Android?
Fortnite does not officially support split-screen on Android. Split-screen is available on some consoles. On some Android devices you can split the screen for other apps, but this will not work with Fortnite’s gameplay.
13. Can you play Fortnite on 2 different consoles with the same account?
Yes, you can play Fortnite on multiple consoles as long as you’ve linked them to your Epic Games account. Content and progress are shared across linked platforms except V-Bucks.
14. Can you play Fortnite without a team?
Yes, you can play Fortnite without a team in Solo mode.
15. Can you play Fortnite with bots?
Fortnite includes bots in normal matches but there are also custom creative maps that you can play with exclusively bots. Bot lobbies are a way to practice and improve your skills. The game’s matchmaking system tries to pair players of similar skill, and bots are only used when the server cannot fill with real players.
Conclusion
Fortnite offers various ways to control who you play with through party settings, custom matchmaking, and creative mode options. While traditional private servers are not a feature, these methods allow you to create a more private and personalized Fortnite gaming experience. Whether you want to play with friends only, practice in bot lobbies, or run a private tournament, Fortnite provides the tools you need to tailor your gameplay experience. Understanding these methods will help you optimize your time in the game and enjoy it in your preferred style.