Fortnite has confirmed the return of its OG Chapter 1 game mode, launching on December 6th. This mode will run independently of Chapter 6 Battle Royale. Many players misunderstood, thinking this mode replaces Chapter 6, but it will exist as a separate option. Similar to Rocket Racing, LEGO, and Festival, which appeared in Chapter 5 alongside the Battle Royale mode, the OG game mode will be a standalone feature.
Fortnite Double Pump: A Long-Awaited Comeback
The return of Fortnite Double Pump in the OG game mode is a significant change. This mechanic, popular in the early days, allowed players to fire a pump shotgun, switch to another, and shoot again without delay. Alternating between two shotguns gave an edge by overcoming the fire rate limitation, making it a favorite for skilled players. The mechanic was removed in Chapter 1, Season 5, when a 1.5-second delay was added between pump shotgun swaps. This change remains in effect in the current Battle Royale modes, and it appears Fortnite Double Pump will be exclusive to the OG mode.
This return shows that Fortnite is bringing back mechanics true to Chapter 1 gameplay. Players unfamiliar with Double Pump may need to adjust to its fast-paced mechanics, requiring precise timing, swapping skills, and accuracy. These aspects contributed to the mechanic’s popularity, though it was ultimately removed for balancing reasons.
Classic Weapons and Traps Returning
Alongside Fortnite Double Pump, other iconic features from Chapter 1 are rumored to return. Leaks suggest that the original Burst Rifle, absent since Chapter 1, and the Wall Electric Trap will make appearances in the OG game mode. Unlike past remixes and OG-themed events, this effort seems focused on recreating the experience of early Chapter 1 seasons as closely as possible.
The loot pool and gameplay mechanics are expected to reflect Chapter 1’s style more authentically. For example, early versions of the Assault Rifle lacked first-shot accuracy, resulting in higher bloom and less consistent aim. Headshot multipliers were also much higher, with weapons like the Gold Scar dealing 97 damage on a headshot.
These mechanics made the game unpredictable, as headshots could quickly change the tide of a fight. Pump shotguns, for instance, dealt over 200 damage on headshots and had significant range, earning the nickname “sniper pumps.” These features will test whether modern and returning players can adapt to the unpredictable but rewarding gameplay of Chapter 1.
While recreating Chapter 1’s original gameplay may appeal to many, it also brings challenges. Season 1 had limited mobility, with no sprinting or mantling options. Shield availability was low, as small shield potions (minis) had not yet been introduced, leaving players dependent on big pots for healing. Many players struggled to find enough shield or carry reserves, making fights more punishing.
The pacing of early Chapter 1 seasons was slower due to a lack of mobility options and weaker healing systems. Players unfamiliar with these aspects may find them frustrating compared to modern Fortnite gameplay. Leaks also suggest that the OG game mode will cycle through multiple seasons, possibly starting with Season 1. If this happens, Season 1’s mechanics could be seen as outdated and unbalanced by today’s standards.
The OG Pass: A New Twist on Progression
Fortnite has confirmed the OG mode will introduce a new progression system called the OG Pass. This feature replaces the idea of bringing back original Battle Passes from Chapter 1. Instead of allowing access to old Battle Pass skins like Renegade Raider or Black Knight, the OG Pass will include reimagined or reworked versions of older skins. The OG Pass may follow the approach of smaller progression systems seen in the Festival Pass or LEGO Pass.
The decision to create an OG Pass ensures that iconic cosmetics from Chapter 1 remain exclusive to players who unlocked them during that time. This aligns with Fortnite’s history of preserving the value of limited-time rewards while offering nostalgic items for new audiences to enjoy.
