Fortnite's Original Save the World Mode Goes Free-to-Play, Arrives on Switch 2

Fortnite's original PvE survival mode, Save the World, is finally transitioning to a free-to-play model after nearly a decade. Starting April 16, all Fortnite players can access Save the World without any purchase, provided they use a supported platform. Currently unavailable on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and smartphones, the mode will debut on Switch 2 on the same date.

Originally launched in summer 2017, Save the World was Fortnite's sole offering before the battle royale phenomenon took over. This zombie-shooting and base-building hybrid laid the groundwork for the game's massive success, though it remained behind a paywall despite early plans to make it free. Developer Epic Games has maintained access through rotating add-on packs, with sporadic updates adding new content and tweaks.

Now, the paywall is coming down, allowing everyone to try Save the World. To build excitement, a community website has launched with free rewards for registrants ahead of the April 16 release.

This news caps a busy week for Fortnite, which recently teased a new battle royale season featuring the return of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's popular character. Yesterday, Epic Games also announced major changes to V-Bucks pricing and availability, citing financial necessities to "pay the bills."