Getting a matchmaking error in Fortnite can quickly put a damper on your gaming plans. If you’re seeing the matchmaking error #1 message pop up on your screen, don’t worry – you’re not alone. This error is one of the most common issues Fortnite players face, but the good news is that it’s often fixable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this error, from understanding why it happens to try various solutions that can get you back into the game.
Note: If you’re seeing matchmaking error #1 today, you’re not alone. With the huge Juice WRLD live event happening today and Fortnite Chapter 6 launching tomorrow, the servers are pretty busy right now.
Matchmaking error #1 shows up when Fortnite can’t connect you to a match. The error message usually says something like “Weird. We couldn’t connect to the match.” While this might seem scary, it’s actually one of the most common errors in Fortnite, and there’s often a simple explanation.
The error typically happens because of:
Let’s go through all the fixes you can try, starting with the easiest ones:
1. Check If Servers Are Down: First things first – check if the problem is on Epic’s end. Server issues are a common cause of matchmaking errors, so it’s worth checking before trying other fixes. Simply visit Epic Games Status page (status.epicgames.com) and look at the Fortnite section to see if matchmaking services are marked as operational. If the servers are down, you’ll just need to wait it out. No amount of restarting will fix server-side issues.
2. Restart Your Game: This might seem too simple, but it often works. Close Fortnite completely and wait about 30 seconds before starting the game again. Once you’re back in, try matchmaking once more. This simple reset can often clear up temporary connection issues or glitches that might be preventing you from joining matches.
3. Check Your Internet Connection: Bad internet can cause matchmaking errors, so it’s worth checking your connection.
4. Verify Game Files: Sometimes corrupted game files can cause this error, and the fix depends on your platform. For PC players, open the Epic Games Launcher, click the three dots next to Fortnite, and select ‘Verify’. Wait for the process to finish before starting the game again. Console players should check for game updates, and if no updates are available, try uninstalling and reinstalling the game as a last resort.
Sometimes, despite trying everything, you might still encounter the error. When this happens, patience is key. Follow Fortnite Status (@FortniteStatus) on X/Formerly Twitter for updates about any ongoing issues.
You might also want to try playing during off-peak hours when servers are less busy. If the problem persists, consider reporting the issue to Epic Games support for additional help.
Remember, during major events like today’s concert and tomorrow’s Chapter 6 launch, these errors are more common because millions of players are trying to connect at once. Sometimes the best solution is simply to wait a bit before trying again.
The good news is that Epic Games usually fixes server-side issues pretty quickly, so you shouldn’t be stuck with this error for too long. Keep an eye on their status page for the most up-to-date information about any ongoing issues.