Despite Fortnite having millions of daily players, Epic Games has found itself in hot water with its gaming community.
A bone of contention among players is the game developer's consistent use of AI bots to round out matches.
This situation has evolved into one of the significant controversies surrounding the game.
The developer's decision has drastically polarized the Fortnite player community due a shift in their gameplay experience.
The constant changes to Fortnite’s Battle Royale mode have always sparked debates in the game's following.
The introduction of new items, features or weapons continuously alters the course of the game.
However, one feature that has drastically divided opinions is the use of AI bots.
This use of AI bots in the games has been present since Chapter 2 Season 1, but is now coming under substantial fire from players.
Players Express Their Discontent
Many of the players took to various platforms to express their displeasure on this matter.
A discussion thread initiated by one player asked if the incorporation of AI in the game is entertaining for anyone.
They further questioned the necessity of such an element particularly in a game as popular as Fortnite, which boasts millions of daily players.
The thread was accompanied by a piece of video evidence of the player swiftly vanquishing an adversary player suspected to be an AI bot.
This video has further substantiated the players' claim and frustration at the lack of real competition in the matches.
Players Call Out Epic Games on AI Bot Overuse
The heated discussion drew in numerous other players who too expressed their dissatisfaction with the routes Epic Games is taking.
Critics argued that while some bots can be tolerated, the current usage was disrupting the core competitive nature of the game.
Players complained about their victory being less satisfying and rather bitter due to the reduced level of competition.
Many others shared the sentiment and deemed that the overuse of bots has 'ruined' the game.
A Minority Favor The AI Inclusion
Despite the widespread discontent, a minority of the community have found the AI inclusion favorable.
One such player shared how, as a busy individual they regarded the AI as a nice recreational add-on.
They explained that the Game AI allows them to enjoy the game and score kills despite not being a highly skilled player.
A similar sentiment was expressed by others who also found the AI bots a means of enjoying the game.
The bots gave them the opportunity to engage without fear of being quickly eliminated by highly skilled opponents.
However, the use of AI bots has been in effect for nearly five years, stemming from the developers' attempts to equalize the matches' difficulty.
While a majority oppose the feature and the associated Skill-Based Matchmaking system, Epic Games has not released any information indicating a change anytime soon.