Fortnite has introduced a new way to play for those who are tired of dealing with bots in matchmaking. The old-school system has made its way into the game under the name of “Expert Mode” and is now ready for experienced players to enjoy. Expert Mode is only available in Fortnite OG’s Duo playlist for now. Here's everything you need to know about this new mode, how to play it, and what makes it different from regular Fortnite matches.

What is the new Fortnite Expert mode?

Fortnite Expert Mode is a new Battle Royale mode that removes both bots and skill-based matchmaking. This means all 80 players in the match are real people, not AI. And since there is no skill-based matchmaking, the game no longer matches players with others at their same skill level.

Players might end up fighting someone much better or someone less skilled. This random mix brings more surprise and variety to each match. It also brings back the original feel of Fortnite, when every game felt different.

Epic launched this mode on July 29, 2025. It is only available in the Fortnite OG Duos playlist for people with a Fortnite account. The map and item spawns are the same as in regular Fortnite OG. The only real change is in who you play against.

How to play the Expert Mode in Fortnite

You can try Expert Mode by following these simple steps:

1. Open Fortnite and go to the main menu
2. Choose the Fortnite OG game mode
3. Select Duos (Expert) from the list
4. If you do not have a teammate, choose the “No Fill” option
5. Start the match and join a lobby with 80 real players

Important things to know:

• Expert Mode is only available in Build Mode for Duos
• Matchmaking might take a bit longer because there are no bots
• The mode is not yet available in Solos, Squads, or Zero Build

If this new version becomes popular, Epic may add it to more playlists and game styles in the future.

Why does Fortnite have bots in matchmaking?

Fortnite added bots in Chapter 2, which was in 2019, to help improve matchmaking and welcome new players. Bots are computer-controlled characters. They are easier to fight and help new players learn the game at a slower pace.

Bots also help speed up match start times. In busy hours or regions with many players, this is less important. But during off-peak times, bots make it easier to fill lobbies and keep the game running smoothly.

Another reason for bots is to help less experienced players enjoy the game. If every opponent were a skilled human, beginners might stop playing. Bots make it easier for players to get their first win and build confidence.

However, many advanced players feel that bots make the game boring. That’s why Fortnite Expert Mode removes them. In this new mode, every opponent is a real person, and no match feels the same. You can also check our guide on how to get bot lobbies in Fortnite!

Does Fortnite have aim assist?

Yes, Fortnite includes aim assist. This is a feature that helps controller players aim more accurately. It adjusts the crosshair slightly toward enemies, making it easier to track and shoot targets.

Aim assist does not make every shot land, but it helps balance the game between controller users and mouse-and-keyboard players. Without it, players on consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch would be at a disadvantage.

In competitive modes, aim assist is a topic of debate. But in most casual matches, it helps players enjoy the game without struggling to aim.