If you’re thinking about factory‑resetting your console, PC, or mobile device, it’s natural to worry about your Fortnite progress. The good news is that most Fortnite progress is stored online, not on your device.
This guide explains exactly what happens to your Fortnite progress after a factory reset, what you might lose, and how to make sure everything is safe before resetting.
Short Answer
✅ Your Fortnite progress is safe after a factory reset as long as your Epic Games account is linked and you sign back in after the reset.
❌ Anything not synced or not linked to an account may be lost.
How Fortnite Saves Progress
Fortnite uses cloud‑based account storage through Epic Games. This includes:
- Player level and XP
- Battle Pass progress
- Skins, emotes, and cosmetics
- V‑Bucks balance
- Achievements and stats
- Save the World progression
Your device only stores the game files—not your progress.
What You Keep After a Factory Reset
Once you reinstall Fortnite and log in with the same Epic Games account, you’ll retain:
- ✅ All purchased skins and cosmetics
- ✅ Battle Pass progress (current and past)
- ✅ Account level and stats
- ✅ V‑Bucks tied to your account*
- ✅ Friends list and settings stored in the cloud
*Platform‑specific V‑Bucks have limitations (see below).
What You Might Lose
A factory reset can remove local data and settings, including:
- Graphics and controller settings
- Keybinds and sensitivity (if not cloud‑synced)
- Replays stored locally
- Temporary game files
These can usually be reconfigured after reinstalling.
Important Exception: V‑Bucks and Platform Rules
V‑Bucks behavior depends on where they were purchased.
V‑Bucks That Transfer
- Earned through Battle Pass
- Purchased on PC or via Epic Games Store
V‑Bucks That May Not Transfer
- Purchased on PlayStation
- Purchased on Xbox
- Purchased on Nintendo Switch
These may remain locked to the original platform—even after a reset.
✅ They will still be available if you log in on the same platform again.
Platform‑Specific Notes
PlayStation (PS4 / PS5)
- Progress is tied to your Epic Games account
- PlayStation Network account must be linked
- Resetting the console does not delete progress
Xbox (One / Series X|S)
- Progress is cloud‑saved
- Xbox account must remain linked to Epic Games
Nintendo Switch
- Progress is safe if linked properly
- Unlinked accounts risk losing access
PC (Windows / Mac*)
- Progress is fully cloud‑based
- Local files are deleted during reset
*Fortnite is no longer supported on macOS for current versions.
What Happens If Your Epic Games Account Is NOT Linked?
⚠️ This is the biggest risk.
If you played Fortnite without linking an Epic Games account:
- Progress may be tied only to the device
- A factory reset can permanently erase progress
- Recovery may not be possible
✅ Always link your Epic Games account before resetting.
How to Check If Your Account Is Linked
- Go to epicgames.com
- Sign in
- Open Account → Connections
- Confirm your console or platform is linked
What to Do Before a Factory Reset (Checklist)
✅ Log in to your Epic Games account
✅ Link all platforms (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC)
✅ Verify email and enable account recovery
✅ Take screenshots of account details
✅ Back up replays if you want to keep them
After the Factory Reset: What to Do
- Reinstall Fortnite
- Log in using the same Epic Games account
- Allow cloud sync
- Check cosmetics, V‑Bucks, and progress
If something is missing, contact Epic Games Support immediately.
Final Verdict
A factory reset does not delete Fortnite progress when your Epic Games account is properly linked. Your progress lives in the cloud—not on your device. The only real risks are unlinked accounts and platform‑restricted V‑Bucks.
