When Fortnite was first released, there was no Zero Build game mode. The original version of Fortnite did not provide players with this alternative way to play the game. Now that OG is back, players now have the option to experience the OG meta in Zero Build. However, this meta of the game only had the original build mode in mind, making the Zero Build version of OG a bit difficult to navigate at times. With some planning and game management, however, it’s still a breeze to dominate in Fortnite OG: Zero Build.

The Weapons Are Much Simpler

In the OG Fortnite meta, right off the bat you’ll notice how simple the weapon pool really is. In Zero Build, this is especially important since you don’t have the luxury of building when you are attacked. However, this also makes your approach to fights and constructing your loadout more straightforward. Since the weapons in this game mode are very simple, there is less you need to think about when looting and picking weapons. Simply put, a shotgun, SMG, assault rifle, bandages or shields, and finally a utility item are a perfectly sufficient loadout.

If you are comfortable with it, replacing the SMG with a second shotgun so you can double pump is ideal since you can one-shot players with a well-timed double pump, even with the 50 free overshield players receive in Zero Build. Overall, using the simplified weapon pool to your advantage is important in OG Zero Build. Don’t overthink it too much; just go with what you find is best for your playstyle.

Hold On to Heals!

One thing you will notice in OG Zero Build is how hard heals can be to come by. They aren’t as common as in the modern version of the game. This is most likely to change as the year goes on and more seasons are added to the OG game mode. However, this point still stands. Your escape routes are limited on the OG map, making it difficult at times to escape a fight to look for heals. Stashing some extra heals in an open slot in your inventory can be the difference between you winning and losing a fight. Even if it’s just some bandages, holding on to any healing item can quite literally be a life saver.

Port-A-Bunkers Can Be a Life Saver

With the lack of defensive options in Zero Build mode, it can be difficult to evade or block damage in this OG meta. Luckily, Epic was kind enough to keep Port-A-Bunkers in the loot pool for OG Zero Build. If you don’t know what they are, Port-A-Bunkers are a throwable item that players can aim and throw at the ground in front of them. On impact a small fort spawns, providing cover.

There are so many situations where a Port-A-Bunker can be useful. When engaging with an enemy, throwing down a couple of bunkers for cover while you run in to block incoming damage is extremely useful. In the late game, when the circle is smaller, setting up a bunker or two if you have the circle on your side can be good for making enemies approach. Or if you are taken by surprise and jumped on, using a bunker can make a huge difference when trying to survive, so make sure you are aware of the benefits of keeping them in your inventory!

Learn How to Use the Double Pump

As mentioned earlier, the Double Pump strategy is an extremely strong close-range option for players to implement in their loadouts. If you are unfamiliar with this strategy, it involves having two pump shotguns in your inventory (usually next to each other in the first two slots). When you engage with an enemy after firing the first shot, you can immediately switch to your second shotgun and follow up with another shot with no delay.

You see, in OG Fortnite, there is no cooldown in between shotgun shots when switching from one shotgun to another. So, the double pump strategy is an extremely strong option in close range since you can keep switching between shotguns to deal insane damage. Understanding this strategy and implementing it into your gameplay can be beneficial for players who struggle in close-range fights.

Take Advantage of Ziplines

With no builds and limited movement utility items in the pool, traveling long distances or reaching high ground can be especially difficult in OG Zero Build. Luckily, there are several locations around the map that have ziplines that can take you long distances and get you to high ground. While these are convenient for getting around, they can be risky to use. The ziplines are very loud, and other nearby players can hear when you are using one. Additionally, it is very easy to spot someone using a zipline from across the map. So, while ziplines are very useful tools for getting around, always be aware of your surroundings, and make sure you are in a situation where no one will see or hear you using one.

Conclusion

Fortnite OG is a great game mode for players to try out if they want to change things up from the typical Fortnite experience. Hopefully this article gave you the tips and tools necessary to understand how to play the Zero Build game mode in the OG meta. The simple nature of Fortnite OG and the original map is really what draws players in the most. Make sure to remember there aren’t any of the unique modern weapons or vehicles in this game mode. So, hop into a match and have fun in Fortnite OG: Zero Build