Buzz
Looking to rise through the ranks in Fortnite and prove you're among the elite?
Curious about how Fortnite's ranking system works but don’t know where to start? We're here to help! Introduced to replace Arena Mode, the new Ranked System matches players based on skill level. There are 18 ranks, and you can climb the ladder by earning points from your match performance. Ready to level up? This detailed guide covers all you need to know about Fortnite’s ranking system, along with tips for rapid progression and avoiding common pitfalls.
Fortnite Ranks in Battle Royale & Zero Build Modes
- Bronze (tiers I, II, III) – the entry-level ranks, with Bronze I being the lowest
- Silver (tiers I, II, III)
- Gold (tiers I, II, III)
- Platinum (tiers I, II, III)
- Diamond (tiers I, II, III)
- Elite
- Champion
- Unreal – the ultimate rank
How to Progress Through the Ranks
Overview of Fortnite's Ranking System
The Fortnite ranking system evaluates your skill level to match you with similarly skilled players. The ranks allow you to compete with others who are at your skill level, and your rank is determined by the points you earn in matches. This system also takes into account the quality of your opponents and your lobby. Fortnite features 18 total ranks, with the first five consisting of three tiers each. To advance to the next rank, you must win within your current tier. The ranked levels in Fortnite are as follows:
- Bronze (I, II, III)
- Silver (I, II, III)
- Gold (I, II, III)
- Platinum (I, II, III)
- Diamond (I, II, III)
- Elite
- Champion
- Unreal
Ranked matches are available in both Battle Royale and Zero Build modes. You can also play in solo or group matches in each mode. Battle Royale includes solo, duo, and squad ranked matches, while Zero Build offers the same options. Each mode has its own ranking system, and matchmaking is adjusted depending on whether you are playing solo or in a team.
- Solo matches will match you with opponents of the same rank (or similar).
- In duo or squad games, your party’s rank is determined by the highest-ranking teammate, and you’ll be matched with teams of a similar rank.
Your initial rank is determined by your first match at the start of each season. However, it will also take into account your performance from the previous season and your first match in both Battle Royale and Zero Build. It’s possible to drop to a lower rank depending on how you perform in subsequent matches, but once you reach Unreal, you cannot be demoted for the remainder of the season.
- After reaching Unreal, you will be listed on a global leaderboard, with a unique rank number that can be improved based on your performance among Unreal players worldwide.
- Veteran players are likely to start with a higher rank (such as Platinum or Diamond), while newer players may begin with a lower rank.
Key Factors Influencing Rank Progression
Eliminations Taking out opponents during a match boosts your score and helps you climb the ranks. Your total eliminations, along with the rank of the players you eliminate, contribute to your points. However, remember that eliminations later in the match are more valuable than early ones.
Placement The better you place in a match, the more points you earn, which improves your score. Advancing through the match and surviving until the end increases your chances of a higher rank. The key to improving your rank is to aim for top placements, whether that means finishing in the top 10 or securing 1st place (the ultimate goal).
- In ranked matches, teams are treated as a unit, with points awarded based on the team’s collective eliminations and final placement.
Match Type Points differ depending on the match type. Major tournaments like the World Cup and FNCS Invitational offer the highest points, while Cash Cups and Hype Nights grant moderate points. Regular ranked matches offer the least.
- To rank up quickly, focus on performing well in matches with higher point rewards.
Performance in a Match Several factors influence your match performance, including damage dealt (and taken), materials collected, and completed objectives. After each match, Fortnite evaluates your overall performance and rewards you accordingly, even if you didn’t get many eliminations or top placements.
- Ranking up in Fortnite is all about earning points across all match-related factors—eliminations, placement, match type, and your performance!
How to Rank Up Quickly in Fortnite
Play frequently across all modes. It may seem obvious, but it’s here for a reason! The more you practice, the better you'll get at Fortnite, which directly impacts your rank. So, aim to play as many matches as possible, whether solo, duo, or squad, and across all modes.
- Experiencing every mode will help you become well-rounded and able to excel, improving your rank regardless of the match type.
Avoid early-game fights. Early eliminations don't contribute as much to your ranking, so it's best to land in quieter spots to survive the initial phase of the match. The real point-boosting opportunities come in the later stages, so conserve your resources and strength for those pivotal endgame battles to enhance your rank.
Focus on winning every match. Winning a match significantly boosts your rank because your overall performance plays a major role in your ranking. Develop a solid strategy before the match begins, execute it carefully, and make sure to position yourself well as the playing area shrinks to avoid the storm and increase your chances of victory.
Learn from expert players. Top-tier Fortnite players often stream their matches on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, offering valuable insights into their gameplay. Watch how they strategize, when they choose to fight, and how they handle tough situations. Take notes and incorporate their winning techniques into your own playstyle.
Avoiding Mistakes in Ranked Matches
Choose your position carefully and familiarize yourself with the map. Where you place yourself in the match is critical, especially when you need to navigate or engage in combat. The high ground gives you a tactical advantage by allowing you to strike first, and you’ll earn bonuses for being above your opponents. Additionally, understanding the map layout—such as where to land and where resources are located—can make all the difference.
- Knowing your surroundings and map layout helps you secure a strong position early on and gather essential supplies when needed!
Get to know your team's abilities before engaging in battle. Don’t go into a match without understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your teammates. Clear communication and a solid strategy become much easier when you’re familiar with everyone’s capabilities. Without this knowledge, you may struggle to coordinate movements and attacks effectively.
- If you make a mistake, review the VOD (video on demand) to analyze what went wrong, and use that insight to improve in the next match.
- Don’t cling to a strategy that isn’t working. Stay flexible! Learn to adapt your tactics based on the situation and switch things up as needed.
Avoid taking unnecessary risks. Playing too aggressively or recklessly can lead to avoidable mistakes. Stick with a playstyle that suits you and feels comfortable based on your abilities, being cautious throughout the match. Take risks when necessary, but don’t go overboard unless you’re confident the move will pay off.
Benefits of Ranking Up
Complete ranked quests to unlock cosmetic rewards. Each time you enter a Ranked match, you'll receive a Ranked Urgent Quest. You can only complete one quest per match, and it won’t carry over to the next one. Completing these quests earns you seasonal cosmetic rewards, including emotes, sprays, icons, and pickaxes to customize your gameplay experience.
