After countless hours in Fortnite Zero Build, I’ve noticed that successful combat comes down to a few fundamental principles. Without the ability to build cover on demand (unless you’re lucky enough to have Port-A-Bunkers or Shield Bubbles), your positioning, aggression, and unpredictability become absolutely vital. Here’s what you need to know to win more fights.
1. If They Run, Chase Them
Think about why you run from fights: maybe you’re low on health, short on ammo, facing a more skilled opponent, or stuck in a bad position What’s your biggest fear when running? It’s probably an aggressive opponent using mobility items to chase you down while you’re at a disadvantage.
Use this psychology to your advantage. When an opponent runs, they’re likely in one of these vulnerable positions. Push aggressively and be ready for them to either use mobility items to escape or make a desperate last stand.
2. The Health Advantage
Momentum is everything. When you crack someone’s shields or land a big hit, that’s your moment to strike. Every second you wait gives them a chance to heal or escape. If you have the health advantage, maintain pressure, take smart angles, prevent them from resetting the fight, and get that elimination.
3. Be Unpredictable
Once again, think from your opponent’s perspective: what do they want? They want to keep the initiative and win the fight. They want you to stay predictable. They want you to peek from cover in the same place twice so they can land a nicely lined up shot. They want you to run in a straight line. They want you to stay still while you’re shooting so they can keep landing headshots on you even while they’re taking damage.
Break their expectations. Change positions when they think you’ll be holding and healing, push when they think you’ll retreat, and move erratically under fire. Unpredictability is your best defence, and your best offense.
4. Use Cover Wisely
With no building, natural cover is your lifeline. Rocks, trees, and buildings are your best friends. Always engage from cover, and remember the right shoulder peek advantage – you’re less exposed when peeking from the right side of cover due to the camera angle.
Remember that most cover can be destroyed. Cars make risky but mobile cover – they’ll explode under sustained fire and deal massive damage. But Reboot Vans, on the other hand, are indestructible, although watch out for opponents shooting at your feet underneath!
5. Dominate the High Ground
Height advantage is crucial. When you’re above your opponent, you gain several benefits: earlier visibility, easier shot angles, and quick access to cover. The elevation might even let you spot enemies in their hiding spots.
6. Control Your Engagements
Smart players choose their battles. If an opponent has superior positioning or a more advantageous loadout, there’s no shame in repositioning or avoiding the fight. Victory comes from engaging on your terms, not from rushing into every possible conflict.
7. Third-Party Everything
Gunfire in the distance is an opportunity. Players are weakening each other, making them prime targets for quick and easy eliminations. If you time it right, you could eliminate both players, or at least catch the victor while they’re healing or looting.
Remember that other players follow this strategy too. After winning a fight, either quickly leave the area, or stay alert while looting – or, better yet, use the loot as bait to secure another elimination.
8. Stay Mobile
Standing still is asking for trouble, especially if there’s snipers in the loot pool. Apply the same unpredictability to your general movement: jump, slide, and change direction frequently. Many players won’t even attempt to engage a highly mobile target. But once they land a shot, expect aggressive follow-up.
9. Play to Your Loadout
Your weapon selection determines your engagement range. A shotgun requires close combat, while a sniper requires distance. Force fights that favour your loadout’s strengths. Nothing terrorizes a camping sniper more than an aggressive shotgun push.
For optimal versatility, carry weapons that cover different ranges: a short-range option (shotgun/SMG), mid-range option (rifle), and long-range option (DMR/sniper). If long-range weapons aren’t available, consider special weapons or extra healing items. Ever had an opponent that never seems to run out of health? They probably have three full slots of Chug Splashes.
10. Expect the Unexpected
The best players win through superior anticipation. They track zone movements, predict POI rotations, and even monitor the kill feed for insights. Most importantly, they prepare for sudden changes.
Always consider potential scenarios: third parties after a victory, opponents contesting your position, or unexpected weapons during pushes. Success comes from positioning and decision-making more than perfect aim or lightning reflexes. Understanding your opponents, the map, and game mechanics gives you the edge you need to dominate.