Summary

  • Darth Vader is in Fortnite’s map, and players can recruit and talk to him after defeating him in battle.
  • Players can find the Fortnite AI Darth Vader when it spawns randomly between three locations.
  • AI Darth Vader can respond to players using the voice of James Earl Jones, making the experience even more realistic.

Fortnite’s Star Wars-themed Galactic Battle season is getting better and better with new updates. This time, you can find and recruit an AI-powered Darth Vader to fight alongside your squad. Not only that, it also talks to you using conversational AI in the voice of James Earl Jones. This new Fortnite AI Darth Vader replaces the previous Darth Vader Samurai boss, allowing players to interact with the iconic Sith Lord while playing.

Where to Find Darth Vader on the Island

Unlike some NPCs that have fixed locations, the Fortnite AI Darth Vader spawns randomly at one of three possible spots on the map each match:

  • Vader Samurai’s Solitude – Located in the red island southwest of the map
  • Imperial checkpoint – Found south of the Canyon Crossing  tunnel
  • Imperial checkpoint – Situated over the hill beside Foxy Floodgate

The easiest way to locate Darth Vader is to look for his parked Lambda-class Imperial Shuttle, which is highly visible from a distance. The shuttle never disappears due to view distance limitations, making it an excellent landmark to spot from the air. After some time in a match, Darth Vader’s location will also be marked directly on the map with a small Darth Vader helmet icon.

How to Defeat and Recruit Darth Vader

Before you can recruit the Fortnite AI Darth Vader, you must first defeat him in combat. It goes without saying that it wouldn’t be so easy  as Vader is accompanied by four stormtroopers. Add to that the number of players who also want to recruit and talk to the Sith Lord and would fight you for it. 

If you plan to battle Darth vader, come prepared with weapons and shields and watch out for his signature attacks:

  • Force Pull (brings you close for lightsaber damage)
  • Lunging attacks (similar to Force Pull but in reverse)
  • Lightsaber spin that reflects bullets back at you

Maintain your distance and jump back when Vader pulls or lunges at you. Stop shooting when he spins his lightsaber to avoid having your bullets reflected back. Also, be aware of other players who will be coming to defeat him too and try to survive fighting them for Vader’s loyalty.

After defeating Darth Vader

If you successfully defeat Darth Vader, he’ll open a portal to Mustafar. Interact with him and select the option to join him. You’ll briefly enter and exit the portal, gaining:

  • A Sith Apprentice Lightsaber
  • The ability to throw your lightsaber (just like Vader does)
  • Darth Vader as a member of your squad

Talking to Darth Vader Using Conversational AI

Only a few would gain the privilege of talking to the Fortnite AI darth Vader. It is its most novel feature, making use of conversational AI to interact with players. To initiate conversation:

  • Press the chat button (Y key for keyboard/mouse users or right on the d-pad for controller players)
  • Speak clearly into your microphone
  • Vader will respond in the iconic voice of James Earl Jones

You will be able to ask Vader questions or just chat with him during gameplay. However, be aware that other players can hear these conversations, potentially revealing your location.

Epic Games has also implemented a hotfix to prevent Vader from repeating inappropriate language. Players under 13 (or under their country’s age of digital consent) will need parental permission to use this feature, and conversations are currently only available in English.

Conclusion

If you manage to defeat and recruit the Fortnite AI Darth Vader, consider yourself lucky! Not only did you prove your strength and skill in battle. You also gained the companion and loyalty of the powerful Sith Lord. You can take advantage of the lightsaber and Force abilities you gain in combat. Additionally, having a powerful NPC ally like Vader can turn the tide of battles. With this, recruiting Darth Vader is definitely worth the effort in Fortnite’s Galactic Battle season.