Epic Says Fortnite Cross-Play Matchmaking Is Working As Intended Despite Gamer Complaints
Developer Epic Games is well aware of the complaints over the new matchmaking system it recently introduced to Fortnite, in an attempt to pit players against each other based on skill level regardless of which platform they are playing on. But just because Epic Games hears the complaints does not mean major changes are headed to Fortnite.
Instead, Epic Games is willing to engage in ongoing conversations over last week's update.
"With the rollout, we’ve seen a lot of discussion about potentially unfair competitive advantages from pooling players together across platforms and input devices. The new matchmaking system, however, accounts for various skill levels across different platforms and control inputs, and groups players of similar skill levels together," Epic Games says.
In a new blog post, the developer doubled down on the new matchmaking system being designed to create fairer matches, with "special considerations for each platform."
"This means that where similar skill exists, players may be paired against opponents from ALL platforms—whether they’re using mouse + keyboard, a controller, or touch input. We are closely monitoring match analytics and your feedback, and we'll make adjustments to ensure everyone is playing a fair match," Epic Games says.
In other words, everything is working as intended, even though gamers have been complaining about the new system. At the same time, however, Epic Games did not dive into specific concerns that have been raised, such as whether a PC player who can hit 60 fps or higher is at an advantage over a console player capped at 30 fps. And of course the input device matters.
Smurfing And Bots In Fortnite
Epic Games did discuss smurfing and the use of bots in Fornite, though. In regards to smurfing—when a more experienced player creates a new account to play against less experienced players—Epic Games points out it is a "bannable offense."
"We see a bunch of negative behavior that occurs with smurfing and issues with gameplay integrity. If we see consistent reports and perceive that you are negatively impacting other players’ experiences, we will take appropriate action," Epic Games says.
As for bots, Epic Games is adding them to Fortnite to help players improve their skill level. The developer answered some questions about the roll out, such as what happens if a player is killed by a bot (they would spectate another player rather than the bot), and if partying up with a bot will be possible (it won't be).
Epic Games also noted that bots can't use vehicles, nor will they be in Creative mode. However, the developer is looking into a "vs. Bot" mode for players to go up against only bots.
Fortnite v10.40.1 Patch Notes
Matchmaking, smurfing, and bots aside, the latest Fortnite patch is out and with it comes objectives in the Out of Time Overtime Mission for end-of-season rewards, including XP, cosmetics, and a commemorative loading screen. This will begin on Tuesday, October 8.
Season X has been extended a week, so there is still time to knock around Gotham City. Everything else is fairly minor—there is a spattering of bug fixes related to performance, art and animation, and mobile. You can check them out in the release notes.
