Epic Games’ Fortnite OG mode, the nostalgic throwback to early Fortnite days, has reportedly received a quiet yet impactful update: a significant rise in the number of bots per match.
As reported by trusted Fortnite leaker ShiinaBR, some matches now include up to 92 bots, leaving only a handful of spots for real players.
The Fortnite OG mode was launched to capture the magic of early Fortnite seasons. With the classic map, original weapons, and simplified mechanics, it became a hit with fans who longed for the older gameplay style.
When Epic Games released a temporary OG-themed season, it sparked massive enthusiasm. So much so that fans called for a permanent return — and Epic delivered.
But now, that excitement appears to have cooled off. The OG mode, while still active, doesn’t command the same player base it once did. Compared to the ever-evolving Battle Royale mode, Fortnite OG struggles to fill lobbies with real players. That’s where bots come in.
Why Are Bots Used in Fortnite?
Bots aren’t new to Fortnite. Epic has used them across various modes for years. They serve a few important functions:
- Faster Matchmaking: If real players are scarce, bots help fill up matches quickly, reducing wait times.
- Beginner-Friendly Environment: New or casual players may find it less intimidating to play with bots.
- Game Balance: Bots maintain a consistent match size, ensuring each session feels full and competitive.
In modes like OG, where the player base is smaller and likely includes more casual users, bots can make or break the user experience.
92 Bots in a Match? That’s Almost Everyone
According to the latest leak, Fortnite OG now supports matches with as many as 92 bots. This change dramatically reduces the minimum number of human players required to start a match. Instead of waiting for a critical mass of real users, the server can quickly fill empty slots with AI.
This helps prevent the mode from feeling “dead” or abandoned. It also allows Epic to keep the mode running without long delays for players. However, it comes at a cost—competitive intensity.
Players have noticed that matches feel easier or that they’re winning more often. This may be exciting for some, but it can frustrate players looking for real competition.
Why the Change?
The main reason seems to be declining player interest in Fortnite OG. When the mode was introduced, it tapped into a wave of nostalgia and briefly spiked player numbers.
But over time, many of those users returned to the main Battle Royale mode, Creative maps, or newer limited-time game modes.
Here are some likely reasons behind the fall in player numbers:
- Repetitive Gameplay: While nostalgic, the older mechanics may feel limited over time.
- Lack of Updates: Fortnite OG doesn’t change much, so players who crave new content get bored.
- Modern Preferences: Today’s players might prefer faster builds, vehicles, or power-ups in the newer modes.
As a result, OG mode is now more of a niche option, played by a smaller group of loyal fans.
To keep the experience alive and avoid slow matchmaking, which could drive even more players away, Epic seems to have made the smart (yet quiet) decision to increase the bot count.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Player reactions to this shift are divided. On one side, casual players enjoy shorter wait times and easier wins. They can hop into a game, score a few eliminations, and log off feeling satisfied.
On the other side, some veterans and competitive players are disappointed that OG mode is becoming less skill-based and more AI-driven.
The concern is that Fortnite OG could eventually feel like a “training simulator” rather than a competitive multiplayer mode. Others argue that it’s better to have a playable mode filled with bots than a mode that disappears altogether due to low player counts.
Is Fortnite OG at Risk?
There’s no official word from Epic Games about removing Fortnite OG. The addition of more bots may be their way of keeping the mode alive in the background, without diverting too many resources.
However, it does raise questions about how long Epic will support OG mode if player numbers continue to decline. If things don’t improve, the mode could become more like an offline or AI-only experience, reducing its value as a multiplayer feature.
What Can Epic Do?
If Epic wants to bring back interest in Fortnite OG, it might consider the following:
- Limited-Time Events in OG Style
- Small Gameplay Tweaks Without Losing the Nostalgia
- More Rewards or Challenges Exclusive to OG Mode
- Cross-Mode Integration for Progression
These steps could draw in players who enjoy the OG experience but want a reason to keep returning.
Summary
Fortnite OG, once a fan-demanded nostalgic mode, is reportedly seeing an increase in bot usage, with some matches including up to 92 AI players.
This change helps Epic Games manage shrinking player interest and maintain fast matchmaking. While bots ensure that OG mode stays alive and accessible, the move has sparked mixed reactions from players.
Some enjoy the casual fun, while others miss the competitive edge of player-versus-player combat. The future of Fortnite OG remains uncertain, but for now, bots are keeping the lights on.