How to Play Fortnite on Chromebook [3 Easy Ways]

Chromebooks were originally designed as affordable devices focused on online computing rather than gaming. However, over time, they have evolved, and in recent years, various manufacturers have introduced gaming-oriented Chromebooks.

“Gaming” Chromebooks | Lenovo

ChromeOS—the operating system powering most Chromebooks—is not built for native PC gaming and lacks support for key graphics APIs like DirectX and Vulkan. Combined with low-cost or older hardware, this makes Chromebooks an unattractive platform for game developers. As a result, games like Fortnite are not officially available on ChromeOS.

Even if such games were released, users would likely face compatibility issues, and developers would have to invest significant effort to optimize for a system not designed for gaming. Despite these limitations, there are effective workarounds that can turn a Chromebook into a capable gaming device with the right setup.

While you cannot run the native version of Fortnite directly on a Chromebook, several effective workarounds exist. We have listed these methods below, from most convenient to least.

1. Cloud Gaming (GeForce Now)

Although Google has discontinued its cloud gaming service, Stadia, excellent alternatives remain, such as GeForce Now. NVIDIA’s cloud gaming platform supports Fortnite natively. However, you will need a subscription to play for longer than one hour. Also, ensure your Chromebook has at least 4GB of RAM for a smooth experience with GeForce Now.

Play 1500+ titles on ChromeOS using GeForce Now | NVIDIA

Cloud gaming is one of the most powerful features available on Chromebooks. Keep in mind that a stable internet connection is essential, and using an external mouse will greatly enhance your Fortnite experience.

  1. Open Google Chrome on your Chromebook and visit the GeForce Now website.
  2. Click the “Join” button at the top right corner of the webpage.
    Joining GeForce Now
  3. Select your preferred plan, and create your account.
    GeForce Now Membership Plans
  4. Go to the Epic Games store and sign in with your existing account, or create a new one if needed.
    Logging In to Epic Games’ account
  5. Search for Fortnite and click “GET.”
    Fortnite on Epic Games Store
  6. Return to GeForce Now and search for Fortnite. Add the game to your library.
  7. Click Play, and after a brief wait, a virtual gaming rig will be assigned to you.
    Playing Fortnite on a Chromebook via GeForce Now
  8. When prompted, enter your Epic Games login details.
  9. The game will launch. You can now play Fortnite on your Chromebook.

2. Chrome Remote Desktop

Due to the portability of Chromebooks, many users also have access to a Windows PC. If your PC is capable of running Fortnite, you can stream the game to your Chromebook using Chrome Remote Desktop. This allows your Chromebook to function as a remote display and controller for your main PC.

  1. Install Chrome Remote Desktop on both your Windows PC and Chromebook.
    Installing Remote Desktop via Chrome Web Store
  2. Open the app and click “+ Generate Code” on your Chromebook. On your PC, enter the code provided.
    Connecting to your PC via Chrome Remote Desktop
  3. Your PC will now be remotely connected to your Chromebook. Launch Fortnite on your PC and start playing from your Chromebook.

Please note that this method may result in higher latency and occasional stuttering, which can detract from the gaming experience. For competitive play, you may prefer using your main PC directly.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Muhammad Qasim


Qasim's deep love for technology and gaming drives him to not only stay up-to-date on the latest developments but also to share his informed perspectives with others through his writing. Whether through this or other endeavors, he is committed to sharing his expertise and making a meaningful contribution to the world of tech and gaming.