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Testing bots for pubs and wildcard functionality

Bots in PvP Matches | Players Push Back Against AI in Public Matches

By

Kylie Moon

May 1, 2026, 08:25 PM

Edited By

Maya Robinson

Updated

May 2, 2026, 08:31 PM

2 minutes of duration

Robots serving drinks and interacting with customers in a lively pub setting
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As game developers test the incorporation of bots in public matches, player feedback reveals increasing dissatisfaction. Reactions from many in the gaming community highlight fears about AI's impact on gameplay, raising concerns about the future of PvP experiences.

Community Concerns Intensify

Many players voice their frustrations about AI opponents affecting their gaming experience. "I play Apex because I want a challenge. Fortnite is literally 80% bots in matches at this point," one player noted, a sentiment shared widely.

Others pointed out, "Wasn't this always a thing? I remember encountering so many bots in pubs on old servers when they were more spread out." This reflects a long-standing issue that many believe remains unresolved.

Caution Ahead: As discussions morph, many players are questioning the rationale behind bot incorporation. "Do you want to actually play the game or are you cool playing bot royale without your choice?" remarked one frustrated individual, underscoring considerable resentment.

Bots: A Double-Edged Sword

Despite the backlash, some see potential advantages in AI usage. For example, several commenters argue bots can help low to mid-skill players learn without facing seasoned veterans. "They are for low, mid-skill lobbies," one observed. Another added, "This would make queue times faster and give them a fair shot, which could make them better players."

In direct contrast, others voiced their displeasure, with one stating: "Facing AI is ridiculously boring," while another echoed similar frustrations, saying, "If you want to improve the AI for future events, thatโ€™s one thing. But filling lobbies with bots? Bad move."

Players Demand Authenticity

As frustrations peak, players persistently call for developers to create options separating AI and human players. Some appear resigned to the presence of bots while others firmly oppose them, stating, "This killed Fortnite for me. Absolutely took all the joy out of kills," lamented one gamer.

Interestingly, many people appear unclear about the bots' purpose, with one user stating, "At the end of the day, most people log on to get kills and perform well rather than to be in a sweaty lobby with top players." This highlights a distinct divide in expectations within the community.

The Path Forward

The ongoing debate continues to signal that game developers might need to reassess this strategy. User sentiments reveal a strong preference for genuine player competition. Are developers prepared to respond?

Key Insights from the Community:

  • ๐Ÿ”ด Mixed Views on Bots: Some find AI unchallenging, while others argue they facilitate easier gameplay.

  • ๐Ÿ”ด Call for Clear Segregation: Strong desire for modes separating bots from human competitors.

  • ๐Ÿ”ต Concerns about Skill Development: Several believe low-skill players can benefit from initial encounters with bots.

As discussions evolve, developers face pivotal decisions: How will they address player concerns about the bots? Will they choose to enhance gameplay authenticity or risk further alienation of their dedicated player base?