Dropping In: Ranking the First Four Fortnite Chapters

Fortnite, the ever-evolving battle royale, has captivated millions of players with its wacky weapons, vibrant maps, and constant updates. Since its launch in 2017, the game has undergone several major shifts, with each chapter introducing a new island, storyline, and gameplay mechanics. But with four chapters now behind us, which one reigns supreme? Here’s a breakdown of the first four Fortnite chapters, ranked from what many consider the most nostalgic to the newest.

4. Chapter 3: Flipped and Forgotten (2021-2022)

Chapter 3 burst onto the scene with a flipped version of the Chapter 2 map, a thrilling live event, and the promise of a fresh start. However, excitement quickly waned. The flipped map, while initially interesting, lacked the variety and memorable locations of its predecessor. New weapons like the Charge Shotgun and the Lever Action Rifle felt unbalanced, and vehicles like the Ballers were more frustrating than fun.

The storyline, which heavily focused on the ongoing battle between the Imagined Order (IO) and The Seven, felt convoluted and lacked the emotional punch of Chapter 2’s Zero Point saga. While the inclusion of iconic characters like Spider-Man generated hype, their presence didn’t translate into a consistently engaging experience. Chapter 3 did have its bright spots. The introduction of the Reality Falls biome with its bouncy mushrooms and tornadoes added a unique twist to gameplay. The addition of Tents as a temporary storage solution was a welcome improvement. However, these elements couldn’t salvage the chapter’s overall feeling of being a retread rather than a revolution.

3. Chapter 4: A Bouncy Beginning with a Short Fuse (2022-Present)

The newest chapter, Chapter 4, launched with a bang, introducing a brand new island brimming with chrome and zero build zones. The Chrome mechanics, allowing players to phase through walls and become momentarily invincible, added a layer of strategic depth. Kinetic weapons like the Shockwave Hammer and the Kinetic Blade offered new ways to traverse the map and engage in combat.

However, Chapter 4’s biggest weakness is its brevity. As of writing this article, rumors abound that Chapter 5 is just around the corner, making Chapter 4 potentially the shortest in Fortnite history. This lack of time to fully develop the map and its lore leaves Chapter 4 feeling incomplete. Additionally, the removal of building, a core gameplay mechanic for years, alienated a significant portion of the player base. While the zero build mode caters to a new audience, it also highlights the loss of a defining aspect of Fortnite’s identity.

2. Chapter 1: Where Nostalgia Reigns Supreme (2017-2019)

For many players, Chapter 1 holds a special place in their hearts. It was the era of the OG map, a simpler time with Tilted Towers, Dusty Depot, and the iconic victory royale dance moves. The limited weapon pool and the focus on building created a unique playstyle that rewarded quick thinking and strategic construction. The constant addition of new limited-time modes (LTMs) kept the gameplay fresh, with classics like “50v50” and “Team Rumble” fostering a sense of community and fun.

While Chapter 1 lacked the complex storyline of later chapters, the mystery surrounding the meteor and the eventual rocket launch event created a palpable sense of anticipation. It was a time of pure, unadulterated Fortnite fun, where victory royales felt especially rewarding due to the game’s relative infancy. However, the lack of map variety and the more basic building mechanics might not appeal to players accustomed to the newer chapters’ features.

1. Chapter 2: A Golden Age of Innovation (2019-2021)

Chapter 2 struck a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. The introduction of a brand new map, complete with diverse biomes like the snowy mountains and the desert, offered a fresh perspective while retaining the core elements that made Fortnite so popular. The addition of features like crafting, disguises, and boss fights added depth to the gameplay experience.

The storyline involving the Zero Point, the arrival of Agent Jones, and the eventual confrontation with the menacing Midas kept players engaged and eagerly awaiting the next chapter. Vehicles like boats and cars provided new ways to navigate the larger map, and the introduction of Mythic weapons like the Infinity Blade offered a taste of immense power. Chapter 2 wasn’t without its hiccups. Certain overpowered weapons and unbalanced seasons caused frustration among some players. However, the overall experience was undeniably positive, solidifying Fortnite’s place as a gaming phenomenon.

The Final Drop

Ranking Fortnite chapters is ultimately subjective. Each chapter has its own strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences. Chapter 1 offers a nostalgic return to simpler times, while Chapter 2 delivers a healthy dose of