What is Archive in Fortnite? Explained

(Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)
It's time to Archive Midas in Fortnite (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)

A new system called "Archive" was introduced to Fortnite in Chapter 3 Season 3. This allows the user to store cosmetics in an archive and temporarily remove them from their in-game Locker. If and when needed, they will be able to bring it back to their Locker at a moment's notice.

Despite being labeled as "useless" or "unnecessary" by some, the archiving system makes it easier for players to temporarily remove cosmetic items from view. Instead of having to contact the Epic Games support team, players can simply archive the items and bring them back later if they change their minds. The system is a useful tool that simplifies the cosmetic management process in the game.


How to Archive cosmetics in Fortnite?

Despite the new system being around for some time, not everyone is aware that it exists. The filter option in the Locker makes it convenient to sort through a large number of cosmetics, but the Archive system takes things to the next level. Here's how to use it:

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1) Go to the in-game Locker and select any cosmetic item

Go to the in-game Locker to start the process (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)
Go to the in-game Locker to start the process (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)

To archive a cosmetic item, the first step is to go to the Locker and select the item you want to archive. Once you have pressed the Archive button, the process will commence.


2) Confirm the archive process

Select which item(s) are to be archived (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)
Select which item(s) are to be archived (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)

After the cosmetic that is to be archived is selected, press the Archived Item button to confirm the selection. Once done, it will disappear from the in-game Locker.


3) Use the Filter By option to see archived cosmetics

Use the "Filter By" option to find archived cosmetics (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)
Use the "Filter By" option to find archived cosmetics (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)

After the cosmetic item has been archived, you will have to use the Sort + Filter option to find the cosmetic. After clicking on the option, go to the Archived option at the very end of the Filter By column. Once there, click on it to see all your archived cosmetics.


4) Want the cosmetic item back in the Locker?

Unarchive cosmetics at any time (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)
Unarchive cosmetics at any time (Image via Epic Games/Fortnite)

If you want to use a cosmetic item that you've archived, bringing it to the Locker is easy. Once inside the Archived section, select the cosmetic to send it back to the Locker and press the Unarchive Item button. To find the item again, return to the Locker.


How many times can you use the Archive system in Fortnite?

Since it's integrated into the Locker, players are free to use it as and when they see fit. There is no limit as to how many times a cosmetic item can be archived or unarchived. However, keep in mind that if a cosmetic is refunded, despite it being archived, it will be removed from the Locker permanently.

There is no way to finesse the system that's in place to get a refund while still having the cosmetic in the Locker. On that note, the Archiving system is pretty well fleshed out, and there's probably nothing else Epic Games can do to make it better. It's simple, to the point, and does exactly what it's supposed to.

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