The Surprising Similarities Between Fortnite and BJJ
Fortnite Battle Royale is by far the most popular video game right now, so chances are, you’ve heard plenty opinions. We’re here to share a different perspective.
But first, let’s cover the basics behind Fortnite. If you’re anything like me, your knowledge of current video games may be somewhat limited, so here’s the gist. Fortnite Battle Royale is a free-to-play multiplayer video game, where your ultimate goal is to be the last player alive. This can be done either by killing off or escaping your opponents.
The game takes place on an island which has a collection of weapons randomly distributed around the island. The island also has a “safe zone” which slowly shrinks as the game continues. If you spend too much time outside of this safe zone you will slowly die.
Many parents feel that this type of game may desensitize violence and can be addictive for players. However, if played sparingly and with good judgment based on your child’s age, Fortnite can actually have several positive effects. A recent study through the American Journal of Play claimed that games such as Fortnite can increase:
- attention
- perception
- and cognition
Other researchers have also said that video games can improve memory and promote a positive outlet of play. In fact, many feel Fortnite has a more cartoony and less realistic style to it, lacking the blood and gore aspects.
In fact, we feel there are actually some similarities that are held between this popular new video game and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Don’t believe it? Keep reading.
Both Follow a Plan to Success
With a game of Fortnite, you can’t expect to achieve a Victory Royale win without a plan. The same goes for BJJ. Iu n a match you can’t go in blindly, you must have a plan of action beforehand. You also must be prepared to follow through with it. Without a handful of thought-out, practical tactics, your chances of success are slimmer.
Both Quicken Your Reaction Time
Video games have been reported to greatly speed up one’s reaction time, helping one to make decisions quicker and with less hesitation. In Fortnite, you can’t take your time when facing an opponent or else you are sure to be defeated. This quick reaction time can also make a world of difference in a jiu jitsu match, where there is often little time to think before taking action.
Both Take Advantage of Resources
In Fortnite you must learn how to adapt to your surroundings and learn how to defend yourself with what limited resources you are given. In the game you can build weapons and structures of defense out of scavenged materials you find around the island.
Similarly, with BJJ you must learn to adapt to your surroundings and the situation of each match because no two matches are ever the same. As an athlete, you also must take advantage of the strengths and resources you have. Spend your time training with your teachers wisely!
Both Require Your A-Game From Start to Finish
The first few minutes of a game of Fortnite are crucial to your success. This is the most important time to gather weapons and materials, and therefore the time you are the most susceptible to being attacked by an opponent.
The beginning of a BJJ match is just the same in the sense that it can set the tone for the rest of the match. However, once you feel like you are reaching a win, you can’t stop putting in that effort. You must continue doing what has led you to success up to that point, or else your competitor is sure to take the lead.
Fortnite can have many helpful advantages that are often overlooked. Pay attention to some of the skills and mindsets you must use to win in Fortnite and think about how those same qualities must be used in a BJJ match.
Learn to stick to a solid plan, keep your reaction time quick, use your resources wisely, and stay on your A-game. When it comes to Fortnite and BJJ, let both practices contribute to constant improvement on the mat. Happy gaming!
