Ballistic is presented as a 5v5 tactical FPS without construction or respawns where at the beginning of the game the players are divided between attackers and defenders. The former's objective is to place an explosive in one of the two places on the map enabled for this, while the latter must do what is necessary to prevent it. Rounds end when one team manages to detonate the device or when all players on one of the two teams are eliminated. After round 6 the players switch sides and the game ends when one of the two teams wins a total of 7 rounds.
Players start with an assault pistol and 800 credits. Credits are earned by getting kills and placing the device, and can be spent during the game and at the start of each round to purchase additional items and weapons. Additionally, at the start of the game, players on both teams must choose one of five versatile gadgets that only they can purchase and use. Up to two units of the gadget can be carried in the inventory each round. Weapons, smoke grenades, and stuns can be dropped for teammates to pick up and equipment dropped by eliminated players.
From day one, Ballistic will have the Tenth Horizon map, a starter set of weapons, and a limited number of items. «After launch, adjustments will be implemented based on player feedback, as well as important updates such as new maps, weapons and functionalities,» explains Epic Games. Ballistic has access to all presets in the box office and is compatible with all existing Fortnite outfits, backpacking accessories, footwear, wraps, graffiti, and emotes. Pickaxes, trails, instruments, vehicles, and improvisation tracks cannot be used or supported.