Mastering Minions: A Guide to Controlling Hired Bots in Fortnite

Controlling your hired bots in Fortnite is all about utilizing the command wheel. Once you’ve hired an NPC (Non-Player Character), a button prompt appears on your screen, typically in the top left corner. Pressing and holding this button, often the middle mouse button on PC, brings up a radial menu. From this menu, you can issue various commands to your hired companion, such as directing them to follow you, attack a specific target, or stay put. Efficiently using this command wheel is key to maximizing the value of your hired help and securing that Victory Royale!

Understanding the Hireable NPCs in Fortnite

Fortnite’s island isn’t a lonely place thanks to hireable NPCs that can fight by your side! In Chapter 4 Season 4 and beyond, knowing the types of specialists you can hire is crucial for strategic gameplay. Let’s dive into the details and how to make the most of your hired guns.

The Different Specialist Types

Currently, Fortnite features various Specialist Characters, each with unique skills and equipment:

• Scout Specialist: These NPCs are equipped with Sniper Rifles, perfect for providing long-range support and picking off enemies from a distance. They are invaluable for scouting out enemy positions and providing covering fire.

• Supply Specialist: Need ammo or healing items? The Supply Specialist is your go-to. They periodically provide you with ammo and consumables, ensuring you’re always stocked up for battle.

• Heavy Specialist: Armed with a Shotgun and plenty of Shotgun ammo, the Heavy Specialist excels in close-quarters combat. They are ideal for clearing out buildings and providing aggressive support in tight spaces.

• Medic Specialist: The Medic Specialist is a lifesaver, providing Health and Shield consumables. They’re crucial for keeping your squad alive during intense firefights and long engagements.

Finding and Hiring Specialists

To hire a Specialist, you first need to locate them at their designated spawn points on the map. Approach the NPC and interact with them. This opens a communication wheel where you can select the “Hire” option. Be prepared to spend Gold Bars to secure their services! The amount of gold bars usually range from 80 to 100.

Some known locations for hireable characters include:

• Beastmode – Breakwater Bay.
• Sun Strider – Eclipsed Estate.
• Nolan Chance – Frenzy Fields.
• Royale Bomber – Brutal Bastion.
• Bull Shark – Creeky Compound.
• Piper Pace – Slappy Shores.
• Fish Thicc – Shore Shack (northwest of Relentless Retreat)
• Antonia – Frenzy Fields.

Keep in mind that these locations can change with each season update, so stay updated with the latest Fortnite news and community findings.

Maximizing Your Hired NPC’s Potential

Once hired, your NPC becomes a valuable asset. Use the command wheel effectively to direct their actions. Tell them to follow you for constant support, order them to attack specific targets for focused fire, or instruct them to hold position to guard a strategic location. Remember, communication is key to maximizing their effectiveness.

New & Improved Command System

The Fortnite command system has undergone improvements, making it even easier to manage your hired NPCs. The command wheel is more intuitive, and the NPCs themselves are more responsive to your orders. Practice using the different commands to become proficient in controlling your hired help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hired Bots in Fortnite

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further master the art of controlling hired bots in Fortnite:

1. How do I know if a character is hireable?

   • Hireable characters have a speech bubble icon above their head. Interacting with them will bring up the hiring option.

2. How much does it cost to hire a character in Fortnite?

   • The cost varies, but typically ranges from 80 to 100 Gold Bars, depending on the character and the current season.

3. Can I hire more than one character at a time?

   • No, you can only have one hired NPC active in your squad at any given time.

4. What happens if my hired NPC dies?

   • Once defeated, hired NPCs are permanently eliminated for that match. You’ll need to hire a new one if you want another companion.

5. How do I dismiss a hired NPC?

   • The command wheel typically includes an option to dismiss your hired NPC, allowing you to free up the slot for another or simply go solo.

6. Do hired NPCs use ammo?

   • Yes, hired NPCs use ammo. However, Supply Specialists can replenish your and their ammo supply, making them a valuable choice.

7. Can hired NPCs drive vehicles?

   • Yes, hired NPCs can ride in vehicles with you, providing support from a moving platform. This can be especially effective in team modes.

8. Are hired NPCs affected by the storm?

   • Yes, hired NPCs are affected by the storm and will take damage if they remain in it. Make sure to lead them to safety.

9. Can hired NPCs revive me or my teammates?

   • Yes, hired NPCs can revive downed players, making them incredibly useful in squad-based modes. They will prioritize reviving players.

10. How can I tell the difference between a bot and a real player?

    • Bots often have unusual names, exhibit predictable behavior (like rarely building), and may miss shots frequently. However, hired NPCs are not the same as the AI bots that populate the game.

11. Are there any specific quests related to hiring NPCs?

    • Yes, Fortnite often features quests that require you to hire NPCs and complete tasks with them, such as traveling a certain distance or dealing damage to opponents.

12. Do hired NPCs have different personalities or dialogue?

    • Yes, each hired NPC has unique dialogue and some degree of personality, adding flavor to the gameplay experience.

13. Can enemies hire the same NPCs?

    • Yes, other players can hire the same NPCs that you can. Be quick to hire them before your opponents do!

14. Can I customize the appearance of my hired NPC?

    • No, you cannot customize the appearance of hired NPCs. They have predetermined skins and outfits.

15. Are there any educational benefits to playing Fortnite?

    • Absolutely! Games like Fortnite can enhance strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, aligning with principles explored by the Games Learning Society. You can explore more about the educational aspects of gaming at GamesLearningSociety.org.

By understanding the nuances of hired NPCs and mastering the command system, you can significantly improve your chances of success in Fortnite. So, go forth, hire wisely, and conquer the island!