How to sit out in Fortnite

Rishabh Sabarwal
Fortnite character sitting down

Fortnite is not the most relaxing game out there if you’re constantly taking part in battle royale matches. If you want to give yourself a break by going AFK and need to inform your teammates, here’s everything to know about sitting out in Fortnite.

As expected, Fortnite Chapter 4 Season OG was a massive hit as it brought back countless players and let them recreate their favorite memories from Chapter 1. However, it’s time for the game to move ahead as Chapter 5 Season 1 features an Eminem concert, the rapper’s skins, and a lot more for the community.

Although Fortnite thrives on constant updates and content changes, certain aspects of the battle royale title have remained the same for a long time. This includes the ability to sit out in the lobby while your squad completes a match or when you simply need a break and want to tell everyone that you’re AFK.

On that note, here’s how to sit out in Fortnite and what does it mean.

What does “sitting out” mean in Fortnite?

In Fortnite, “Sitting Out” indicates to the party members that you’ll not be participating in the next or several upcoming Battle Royale matches. This is similar to stating that you’re AFK, which stands for Away From Keyboard.

Playing back-to-back matches in Fortnite could be tiresome for several players as the high combat pressure could easily get to anyone. In this case, players usually need to take a break or some time away from the screen to relax.

Fortnite sit out option
Using the sit out option will let you relax for a few Fortnite matches.

How to sit out in a Fortnite lobby

You can access the sit out feature in Fortnite by visiting the Fortnite menu and going into the Participation tab.

To sit out in a Fortnite lobby, here’s what you should do:

  1. Click on the Menu button indicated by 3 lines in the top right corner.
  2. Once the menu opens up, click your Fortnite profile icon.
  3. In the third option, you’ll see Participation written with Playing turned on.
  4. Click on it and you’ll switch to the Sitting Out option.

After these steps, you’ll have successfully sat yourself out in a squad or a party in the Fortnite lobby. This option can also be turned on once the entire squad gets eliminated and your teammates want to Ready Up from the match rather than just return to the lobby.


For more, be sure to check out our other Fortnite guides:

Best Fortnite keybinds and settings for mouse & keyboard | Best Fortnite controller settings | How to land at Hot Spots in Fortnite | Fortnite Exotic weapon locations | All Fortnite Reality Augments | What does Siphon mean in Fortnite? | What are account levels in Fortnite?

About The Author

I play and write about Fortnite & other video games and I also make movies in India. Often likes to geek out about Comic books, Films, and Star Wars. Also has a killer playlist like James Gunn & Tarantino!