Welcome to Chicks Gold Blog Series!
We are back once again to walk you through your gaming hurdles. This week's article will focus on building tips in Fortnite, as building has recently made a comeback after being temporarily disbanded in Battle Royales. We'll discuss the basics, some strategies, advanced building, and common mistakes to avoid. So, without further delay, let's get into the important stuff!
What Is the Significance of Fortnite Building?
Since 2017, Fortnite has been building its fanbase with its intense content, competitive environment, and exciting upgrades accompanying each season. The game has also caught the eye of many through the introduction of pop culture characters such as Wolverine, Deadpool, Goku, and many other famous faces. But building has always been a fan favorite, as it provides additional excitement to the game as players can create their own cover, build structures for better vantage points, and much more.
After the feature was removed from battle-royale early last year, players found themselves disheartened, as without the ability to build structures in-game, the dynamic was turned on its head. Many users felt that without the use of building, their matches just weren't the same. So, why is building in the game so important?
Fortunately, Fortnite building has been reintroduced, and we heavily recommend users get their skills back up to par because, without this technique, you're at a severe disadvantage. Even with the best aim and insane accuracy, you can still lose that #1 spot if your competitors have the high ground.
Undoubtedly, it is possible to secure a win without building, but it is undeniably more manageable to incorporate it into your skill set. The building function has two primary uses, the first being fortification. Once you drop into the map in a match, it's a free-for-all, with players taking down anyone in their sights, so ensuring you have cover is going to provide an instant benefit. The second is movement, as some areas of the map are simply inaccessible without the use of building. With this in mind, let's discuss basic Fortnite building.
Basic Fortnite Building - What Does It Entail?
To understand building, you first have to understand the structures and the basics of how they function. Players can create four main structures: walls, floors, pyramids, and stairs. Each of the structures (excluding walls) takes up a 1x1x1 surface area of the building grid, each tile is 5.12m in length, and it is essential buildings are connected to an existing floor or wall structure. Failure to correctly connect the structure you're building will see it quickly depleting one tile at a time until the framework entirely disappears or is reduced to the segments which are correctly structured.
In addition, there are three materials from which you can build your structures: wood, metal, and stone; all of these materials mean your structure will have different properties. Wooden structures are the quickest to build but are also the least structurally sound; metal is time-consuming to build but provides a much stronger fortress, and stone falls somewhere between the two.
You're also going to a pickaxe to collect the materials needed for your structures. The best way to acquire these materials is to check your surroundings for other players; once you're in the clear, take your pickaxe and chop at some structures. Trees, rocks, buildings, etc., can be harvested for the needed metal, wood, and stone.
The final thing you need to be aware of within our Fortnite building basics is the color you see when placing your segments.
Light Blue - You're able to place the building in the area you have chosen.
Red - Placing the structure in this space is not possible.
Yellow - You can place the structure where selected, but an obstruction will hinder progress. You can bypass this issue by eliminating the obstruction.
The last thing we'll touch on in the basics of building is the controls for building. These will, of course, vary depending on the console you're playing on, so here's a breakdown of the controls.
PlayStation Build Controls
- L1- Change between building materials
- Up - Toggle Map
- Down - Emote
- Right - Squad Comms
- Left JoyStick - Movement
- R2 - Confirm
- R1 - Rotate building piece
- Triangle - Next building piece
- Square - Trap (Tap/Hold) Interact (Tap / Hold)
- Circle - Toggle building mode/Edit building piece (hold)
- X - Jump
- Right JoyStick - Look
- Right JoyStick (Up) - Repair or Reset building edit (edit mode)
Xbox Build Controls
- LT - Equip targeted building pieces
- LD - Change building material
- Left Joystick - Move
- Left JoyStick (up) - Sprint
- Up - Toggle Map
- Down - Quick Chat
- RT - Place building g or trap/confirm
- RB - Rotate building piece
- Y - Cycle building piece
- X - Interact (tap/hold) Pick trap (tap) Jump to trap inventory (hold)
- B - Switches to combat mode (tap) Edit building piece (hold)
- A - Jump
- Right JoyStick - Look
- Right JoyStick (up) - Repair/Improve
PC Controls
- Left Shift - Crouch while building
- Q - Wall
- E - Stairs
- Mouse button 5 - Roof
- T - Trap
- Left Mouse Button - Place structure
- H - Repair/Upgrade
- R - Rotate building
- Right Mouse Button - Change materials
- F + Mouse Wheel Up - Building edit
- Left Mouse Button - Select building edit
- Mouse Wheel Up - Reset building edit
There are ways to personalize your Fortnite building settings, changing which controls carry out which tasks, so if you're not feeling this setup, play around with this aspect to find which is the best Fortnite building keybind for you. Now that you're well-informed on the basics let's move on to the best strategies to use in-game to secure those wins!
Fortnite Building Techniques
Using different techniques is essential for the structure you want to build and its purpose. In addition, you'll need to ensure your positioning is well thought out; failure to do so could make your designs misplaced, misshapen, and far less useful.
You'll first want to establish where you want to position your structures; if you prefer to build your structures in a right-leaning structure, then ensure you stand slightly left of the grid tile you are replacing your structure. Similarly, when placing structures on walls/roofs, your line of sight on the object will determine the positioning of the structure. So make sure you're correctly positioned before you make your decision; this can be difficult mid-match, so consider practice runs.
Ramp Cover
This should be a breeze once you've got your technique under wraps. Creating simple ramps is an excellent way to survive while you find cover or can take a shot. Ramps will offer you cover from enemy fire, also allowing you to crouch and climb on some as a way of sneaking shots back.
Make sure you don't climb every ramp and remain cautious and agile, as if your movements become too predictable, even the strongest structure won't save you from enemy fire.
Fortnite 90s
This method has quickly become a fan favorite due to its simplicity, speed, and effectiveness. Building 90s is simply building a high-standing structure in quick succession by turning 90 degrees with each level of your structure. Begin by creating a ramp, placing two/three walls, a floor, and another ramp, then repeat until you achieve the height you need. You'll quickly see how beneficial this method is as it provides excellent sights from above for you to seek out enemies and take them down, as well as providing you with additional cover.
Creating 90s will take some practice if you're looking to do it quickly, but if you're a fan of streaming, you'll most likely be aware of how fast the actions can be carried out with some dedication. So take a little time and consider Fortnite building practice runs in creative mode to get your technique down.
Ramp Rush
This is an excellent technique for players who have to get somewhere fast. By building ramp after ramp, you can gain high ground and potentially escape danger quickly. You can up your chances of survival by placing walls along the structure and the occasional additional floor to avoid enemy fire and prevent others from chasing you up the ramp.
Coning Roofs
Creating cone-shaped roofs can be used in a few different ways. For example, you can add them onto your 90s structures as additional cover from above when having Fortnite building battles with others. Doing so can prevent you from being taken out from above if your opponent takes higher ground before you.
These structures fold forward or backward, meaning you can build away from their tilt and continue upward without issue.
Side Jumping
This is one of the more difficult methods of Fortnite building, but if you can get the technique under wraps, you'll have an excellent new skill.
This method is primarily used when you want to sneak up on an opponent in their own structure and take them down. To build the side jumps, you'll need to create a new floor/ramp beneath a roof, slightly to one side, then jump across and continue building the structure; this is one of the trickier methods because timing is critical. If you do not jump at the correct time, you will be unable to place the next segment of your structure, giving the opponent the upper hand again as they will no doubt continue upward and out of sight.
Editing
Editing is another tricky skill to master, but it can be extremely beneficial. Building new structural additions while editing existing sections isn't easy, but with enough practice, it can up your chances of a win significantly, allowing you to keep cover while incorporating windows or narrow passages to your build. All of this can be done with the simple press of a button, but as we mentioned, this technique can take a while to master, so it's certainly worth doing some practice runs to get your head around the steps.
Tunneling
Last on our Fortnite building technique list is tunneling, which includes creating tunnels while being in a high structure. You'll need to build a simple box at the top of your structure or wherever you want to place the tunnel, edit the front wall, and place another box behind that wall. Continue with these steps until you have created the structure you need.
This technique will offer you an escape route while still providing cover from the already existing walls around you as you build forward.
Incorporating Fortnite Building in Battle
Now we've discussed controls, basics, and techniques, let's touch on how to seamlessly incorporate them into battle when a Victory Royale is up for grabs. So, what is the best way to apply your new skills once you've mastered them in creative mode practice runs?
You'll first need to ensure you're confident with the strategies to achieve the best results. Building quickly and accurately is vital if you want to reach that #1 spot; without practice and finding your feet with these techniques, you'll be a walking beacon for opponents to shoot.
Balance is key. Knowing when to build, when to shoot, and when to do both is half the battle. For instance, building alone can seldom get you the win unless, of course, you camp until the final two and get a lucky shot, which we wouldn't recommend. So, what do you do? Strategise.
Building can be done in quick succession by seasoned players, so you'll, of course, need to be nimble and quick, but what then? This is when your aim and focus come into play, but this alone won't necessarily carry you to success. So let's look at a few strategies that combine both building and attack.
Peekers Advantage
'Peeking' is the term used when you've closed yourself into a structure for protection with a vantage point to take down opponents, and you 'peek' at them at different intervals to take them down. When two players are in this same situation and 'Peeking' to take the kill shot, your timing can be everything. So, how do you ensure you're the one still in the running after this intense standoff? It all comes down to timing, though this time, it's not just your own you'll need to be aware of. In situations such as this, jumping first can take you out of the competition quickly. Your best chance is to wait your opponent out, and when they jump, you jump afterward; but make sure you do so rather quickly. As when they're coming back down from the peek, you can catch them with a shot; if done successfully, you'll be on your way to Victory Royale!
Peek Window
Similarly to the peekers' advantage, you can create a peek window in one of your wall structures, using this as your literal window of opportunity. Of course, there's more to this strategy than the building aspect; now, depending on your preference, or even availability, you can structure your peek window differently. Choose whether you want the window to the left of your wall, central, or on the right. Once you have decided on the position of your window, you must then position yourself accordingly. For instance, if you choose a right-hand window, you will then stand slightly to the left and 'peek' at an angle, hopefully making a successful shot while your opponent passes by attempting their own shot.
A key aspect to remember with this technique is that your opponent, if familiar with peek windows, will have the same vantage point as you, so make sure you stay focused and keep a steady hand.
Know Your Builds
As obvious as this suggestion may be, it is always good to keep it in mind. For instance, if you're boxed into your structure with an opponent outside one of the walls, and they build a ramp facing downward toward your structure and take out the wall facing you, your chances seem slim, don't they? Many players may think building an entire wall structure in front of the opponent is a surefire way to be safe once more, but this would be incorrect. When building certain structures, because they appear transparent or translucent until completion, your opponent may simply take the winning shot before you can build.
So, what should you do? Keep in mind which builds appear in which format. In this scenario, building a bottom right three-tile edit will provide cover so you can peek out, shooting the opponent in the feet or simply allowing you additional time to plan your next move.
Pre-Firing
Pre-firing is a skill you'll need to master when an opponent has you locked down and is relentlessly breaking down your walls as you build them. So you'll need to keep your eyes open and ensure you time things perfectly. To use this method successfully, you'll first have to get yourself into a secure position, even if only momentarily; you'll just need enough time to aim whilst being protected. Once your opponent starts smashing down your walls, get them in your sights, and then here's where timing becomes genuinely crucial. The moment the wall comes down, fire your shot; not a moment sooner or later. If you miss your window of opportunity, you can kiss that win goodbye.
Armored Walls
When looting, you may be fortunate enough to find some armored walls, and they can be literal lifesavers when it comes to an intense battle. The reason being that they are near impenetrable, though you'll have to keep in mind that where you place them matters, and once they are in place, that structure can no longer be edited. So although we are recommending you use them where needed and ensure you have thought the placement through.
There are, of course, many other techniques and strategies you can put into play, but practicing the above successfully is sure to help you grab those wins with relative ease.
Fortnite Building Tips for Success
Now that we've covered many of the do’s, let's take a look at a few of the don'ts, as they can be just as crucial to success.
Know When To Jump and Move
Many players get carried away and think Fortnite building offers them some sort of immunity, and that's simply not true. Even the best builders can still take a loss from time to time, and an excellent way to whittle down those losses is to know when to jump. Don't jump too often, especially in situations such as those with peekers' advantage. If your movements become too predictable, you make yourself far easier to kill. Try to be patient and ensure you keep your movements scarce and nonrepetitive.
Don't Just Use Wood
Although wood is easier to acquire and quicker to build, choosing it all the time instead of some other in-game materials puts you at an immediate disadvantage. Wood walls, while being the quickest and easiest to build, are also the quickest and easiest to destroy, so when you have the materials at hand and the time to do so, don't neglect to use metal and stone; it could be a real game changer for you.
Take the High Ground
Staying hidden and being stealthy can be great, but it won't always be enough when there are always excellent builders looking to take a downward shot. So, whenever possible, take the high ground, explore the map, find excellent loot, and take down some opponents in the process.
Don't Overbuild
Given the nature of our blog, this may seem like bizarre advice, but it's important to remember that Fortnite building is meant to be strategic. Meaning if you just build structures haphazardly and there is little to no reason for them being where they are placed, or they don't provide cover, you can just make yourself a bigger target. Not only that, but you will just end up likely wasting precious materials you'll need later in the match.
Fortnite Building FAQ
Now we’ve covered all the basics, check out some of the most frequently asked questions by players, so you don’t have to leave a thing to the imagination.
Where Can I Get Materials for Building?
There are an abundance of materials across the map for players to get what they need for their builds. But if you’re looking to stock up quickly and get straight to it then the following sections of the map are excellent choices:
- Junk Junction (Metal)
- Wailing Woods (Wood)
- Snobby Shores (Stone)
Which Tools Are the Best for Harvesting Materials?
Any old pickaxe will get the job done, but if you’re meticulous with measuring damage, effectiveness and more, then we recommend the Minty Mountaineer pickaxe. This is the game's first one handed pickaxe and it has a faster swing and less delays.
How Many Materials Can I Carry at Any Given Time?
Previously, players could hold up to 999 materials, however, as of a v24.40 update, this has been lowered to only 500. Which, while still being a decent number, has quite literally cut your inventory in half. So ensure you keep an eye on your stock and replenish when needed.
Fortnite Building Guide Conclusion
This concludes our guide for this week! If you came here wondering how to get good at building in Fortnite, we certainly hope we've provided you with the answers needed to do so. Don't forget to keep practicing your skills and put your knowledge to the test. Even in creative mode, you'll gradually improve your technique and become more capable with each attempt; soon, you'll secure those Victory Royales effortlessly! If you're facing any other issues in Fortnite, why not look at our Fortnite range? You can find exceptional accounts, as well as some of the best in-game items available, all for the most competitive rates on the market. For further Fortnite walkthroughs, check out our extensive library here, where you can locate articles such as 'How To Level Up Fast In Fortnite' as well as other excellent reads.
