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How to Uninstall and Install Fortnite: A Comprehensive Guide

Uninstalling and reinstalling Fortnite can seem daunting, but it’s a relatively straightforward process. Whether you’re troubleshooting issues, freeing up space, or simply want a fresh start, this guide will walk you through the steps on various platforms. Here’s a direct answer to the question: How do I Uninstall and install Fortnite?

The process generally involves two key steps: first, uninstalling the game through your platform’s respective interface, and second, reinstalling it, typically through the game launcher or store where you originally obtained it. The specific steps vary slightly depending on your platform, be it PC, Xbox, or mobile. Let’s dive into the specifics of each, and then answer some frequently asked questions you might have.

Uninstalling Fortnite

Uninstalling on PC

Open the Epic Games Launcher: Locate and launch the Epic Games Launcher on your computer. This is usually accessible through your desktop shortcut or the start menu.
Navigate to the Library: Once the launcher is open, click on the “Library” tab, located at the top.
Find Fortnite: Scroll through your list of games until you find Fortnite.
Access the Meatball Menu: Next to the Fortnite game tile, you’ll see a meatball menu (three dots). Click on this.
Select Uninstall: In the drop-down menu, select the “Uninstall” option.
Confirm Uninstall: You might be asked to confirm your choice. Click “Yes” or “Uninstall” to proceed. The game will now be removed from your computer.

Uninstalling on Xbox One/Series X|S

Press the Xbox Button: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu.
Go to My Games & Apps: Navigate to “My games & apps” and select it.
Select Games: Choose the “Games” tab.
Highlight Fortnite: Find Fortnite within your list of installed games and highlight it.
Press the Menu Button: Press the Menu button on your controller (usually the button with three lines).
Select Uninstall: From the options, select “Uninstall”. The game will be removed from your console.

Uninstalling on Android (Epic Games App or Samsung Galaxy Store)

Locate the App: Find the Epic Games App or the Fortnite app if installed through the Samsung Galaxy Store on your device.
Long Press the App Icon: Press and hold the app icon.
Select Uninstall: A menu will appear; select “Uninstall.” Confirm when prompted.

Reinstalling Fortnite

Reinstalling on PC

Open the Epic Games Launcher: Launch the Epic Games Launcher as you did when uninstalling.
Navigate to the Library: Click on the “Library” tab.
Locate Fortnite: Find Fortnite in your library. It should now display an option to install the game.
Click Install: Click on the Fortnite tile. The installation process will begin. You may be asked to choose an install location.
Wait for Installation: The game will download and install. This might take a while depending on your internet speed.
Log In: Once installed, launch Fortnite, and log in with your Epic Games account username and password. All your data will be reloaded from the cloud.

Reinstalling on Xbox One/Series X|S

Navigate to the Store: Press the Xbox button to open the guide menu, then navigate to the “Store”.
Search for Fortnite: Search for “Fortnite” using the search function.
Select the Game: Select the Fortnite game tile.
Click Install: Click “Install” to download and install the game onto your console.
Launch the Game: Once the installation is complete, launch the game, and log in with your Epic Games account details. Your game progress will be saved through your Epic account.

Reinstalling on Android (Epic Games App or Samsung Galaxy Store)

Open the Epic Games App/Galaxy Store: Open the Epic Games App or the Samsung Galaxy Store on your device.
Search for Fortnite: Search for “Fortnite”.
Select the Game: Select the Fortnite game tile.
Click Install: Click “Install” to download and install the game.
Launch the Game: Once installed, launch Fortnite, and log in with your Epic Games account credentials. Your data will be restored from your Epic account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will I lose all my skins and progress if I uninstall Fortnite?

No, you will not lose your skins or progress. Your skins and game data are stored on your Epic Games account, not on the device where the game is installed. As long as you log back into the same account, all your items and progress will be restored.

2. Does uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher delete Fortnite?

Yes, uninstalling the Epic Games Launcher will remove all games, including Fortnite, installed through it. Reinstalling the launcher allows you to download the games again.

3. Why is Fortnite not working and can reinstalling help?

Fortnite not working can be due to various reasons, such as server issues, corrupted files, or connectivity problems. Reinstalling the game can resolve issues related to corrupted game files. To check for server issues, visit the Epic Games Server Status page.

4. What to do if the Epic Games Launcher fails to uninstall?

If the Epic Games Launcher doesn’t uninstall, a background process might be interfering. Try restarting your computer or starting Windows in Safe Mode to prevent conflicts, then try uninstalling again.

5. Why is my Xbox not letting me install Fortnite?

Your Xbox might be struggling to install Fortnite due to several issues. The most common causes include lack of sufficient storage space, an update downloading simultaneously, or corrupted game files.

6. How do I fix install failed errors with the Epic Games Launcher?

To fix install errors with the Epic Games Launcher, run the launcher as an administrator. Right-click on the launcher shortcut and select “Run as administrator”. This can solve permission-related installation issues.

7. Does Fortnite reset every season?

Yes, Battle Pass levels reset at the start of each new Fortnite season. However, your account level and owned items do not reset.

8. Why am I unable to “Ready Up” in Fortnite?

The inability to “Ready Up” is often related to in-game changes that developers are actively working on. Updates addressing this issue will be released in the future.

9. How do I fix the Error Code 0009?

To address error code 0009, locate the game folder related to the error and delete it. Then, restart the Epic Games Launcher and try reinstalling the game.

10. How long does it take to delete my Fortnite account?

Deleting your Fortnite account is not the same as uninstalling the game. Your account will be permanently deleted 14 days after you submit a deletion request.

11. Will uninstalling Fortnite delete my account?

No, uninstalling Fortnite does not delete your account. It only removes the game from your device. Your Epic Games account remains active, along with all associated data.

12. What if I lost all my skins in Fortnite?

If you’re missing skins, it could be due to a refund on a V-Bucks purchase. Refunds for V-Bucks can return the items acquired with those V-Bucks. If this isn’t the case, contact Epic Games Support for assistance.

13. Is Fortnite OK for a 7-year-old?

Common Sense Media recommends Fortnite for ages 13 and up, mainly due to the open chat features and action violence. Parents should consider this when determining whether the game is appropriate for younger children.

14. How do I verify game files on the Epic Games Launcher?

To verify game files, open the Epic Games Launcher, locate Fortnite in your library, click the three dots next to the game, select “Manage”, and then click “Verify”. This process can help fix issues related to corrupted files.

15. How do I uninstall and reinstall the Epic Games Launcher?

To uninstall the launcher, type “Add or Remove Programs” in the Windows search box, then select the Epic Games Launcher and click “Uninstall”. To reinstall, visit the official Epic Games website and download the latest installer.

By following these steps and addressing the FAQs, you should have no trouble uninstalling and reinstalling Fortnite on your chosen platform. Remember to always ensure you have enough storage space and a stable internet connection before attempting these processes. Enjoy gaming!