Each new Fortnite Chapter means changes all around when it comes to the gameplay, with one of the biggest changes being the map. Every time a new map is added to the game, it’s a nice breath of fresh air for players to discover all the new locations since everyone is on an even playing field. With these new locations comes new ways to start each match, and it can be tough to figure out which places allow for a solid start. Well, have no fear, in this list, we are going to go over some of the best starting drop locations on the new Fortnite map for Chapter 4 Season 1!

Hot Spots

Before we get into any specific locations, we should address the new Hot Spot mechanic for some of the locations. At the beginning of every match, some of the named locations on the map will be in gold, meaning that that location is a Hot Spot. When a location is a Hot Spot, there will be drones that spawn there. When shot down, they will drop some loot, like opening a normal chest. So, keep this in mind when going through the list, because if one of these locations is a Hot Spot, that could be even more (or less) of a reason to drop there if it is convenient to you at the time of course.

Slappy Shores

The first location that we are going to take a look at is Slappy Shores. The thing that makes Slappy Shores stand out from other locations is the amount of shield that you can easily obtain from destroying all of the Slap Barrels scattered around the factory and its outskirts. Similar to the Slurp Barrels that can already be found in-game, Slap Barrels give ten shield to all players within the splash radius when the barrel is broken. The unique thing about all of the “Slap” items in the game is when a player uses them, they get an energy boost, temporarily maxing out their sprint meter and preventing it from lowering for the duration. The new Slap Barrels coupled with some solid loot that can be found throughout the location makes Slappy Shores a nice spot to start off the game if you are looking for a strong start that can lead to some quick rotations.

The Citadel

If starting the game off with some action is more of your style, then look no further than the Citadel. The Citadel is one of the more popular locations and for good reason, this huge castle has tons of loot and can be home to quite a few Oathbound Chests. These are the new chests that were introduced in this chapter that can contain some seriously strong items such as the new Shockwave Hammer and Ex-Caliber Rifle, along with a good chance of dropping shields and meds. On top of this, if you manage to survive all the other players that land here, killing the boss, The Ageless Champion, will cause him to drop his mythic weapon, a very strong version of the Ex-Caliber Rifle, which is always a nice option for anyone’s loadout. If pure entertainment and chaos is what you are looking for to start off a match of Fortnite, the Citadel is a great option.

Various Castle Towers

Speaking of the Citadel, the Castle Towers that spawn around it are a great option for players to hit at the beginning of the map. Not only do they spawn around the Citadel, but also in other various places scattered around the map. What makes these locations a good launching point is the amount of loot that can be found in and around them for how big they are. Not to mention the Oathbound chests have a chance to spawn here as well, which can give a good amount of shields to players right off the bat. Another thing that makes them such a good starting location is that they are a relatively common structure to find, so no matter where the Battle Bus is heading, you have a good chance of running into one as an option to start off at. While not the most action-packed drop, these can be a great option for players if they are looking for a quieter start that can still provide a lot of loot and shields to help build a good loadout.

Anvil Square

Anvil Square is another popular location in the new chapter that draws a lot of players to it. What makes Anvil Square such a popular drop is its location right in the middle of the map, which attracts players because it allows for easy rotations to wherever the storm circles might spawn. Not only this, but the location tends to have a lot of good loot within the houses in the main town, as well as hosting some of the aforementioned Oathbound Chests. Even the smaller houses and towns along the outskirts of the location can give players a good start with the chests and loot they may have, allowing players to craft a quick loadout and jump in the middle of the action that the primary location has. Anvil Square is another great location for players looking for action to start their match but can also serve as a good start for passive players since there will always be a good rotation to hit after this drop if you prefer not to take a lot of fights. Overall, if starting off the game with some high-intensity skirmishes to help brush up on your aim and gunfight skills is more your style, then Anvil Square could be a great place to land in your match.

Lonely Labs

Finally, if playing passive is more of your style, then Lonely Labs might be the start for you. Located in the top right corner of the map, Lonely Labs has a rather appropriate name as it is a relatively quieter area that doesn’t attract a lot of players unless it’s in the direct path of the Battle Bus. Lonely Labs, along with the area around it, hosts quite a decent amount of Slurp Barrels as well, which can help players reach full shields in a relatively short amount of time. The beach with all the crashed shipping containers nearby also makes for a great landing spot since it has a zipline that leads right to the main area. That combined with the fact that there are plenty of chests and floor loot to go around in and around Lonely Labs, it makes for a great start that players who prefer a more passive approach to the game can enjoy.

Conclusion

Overall, the new map in Chapter 4 Season 1 has some really solid spots to start off your games with. With each new major map change, it can be tough to find some players to find new starting drops. This new map offers a lot of different and unique locations to visit and trying out a few of these locations listed may help you find that solid start. Hopefully, this list helps you gather a rotation of preferred spots that you can use in each of your games!