Arguably the hardest challenge of Fortnite season 5, week 10 requires you to eliminate five IO guards. These are tough NPCs that spawn in various fixed locations around the map. There are a few things to know about completing this challenge. For starters, you have to complete the prerequisites before starting this one. First, you must eliminate an enemy with a common weapon, then you have to deal 300 melee damage, and finally, you must upgrade three weapons at various NPCs around the map. These can be done in separate matches.
Once you do those, you’ll be able to begin the challenge for defeating five IO guards. It’s a hard challenge due to the number of prerequisites you need to complete beforehand — and the IO guards are no pushovers, either. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about completing this challenge. Here’s how to defeat IO guards in Fortnite.
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Where to find IO guards
Luckily, there are several different spots that contain IO guards. Above is a map with all of their locations (thanks, Fortnite.gg). The main thing to know is that IO guards spawn in packs of three, meaning you’ll have to visit two of the above locations to defeat all five. This can be done in the same match, thankfully, so if you land somewhere like Salty Towers, you should be in the vicinity of multiple IO guard spawns. Otherwise, your progress does carry over from match to match.
The guards come up from within an underground structure that elevates when you get close. The one thing to take note of is that each IO guard location spawns once. So, if you’ve already defeated the guards at a certain spot, they don’t spawn again. If you visit a location and can’t seem to get the guards to spawn, that’s why.
How to eliminate IO guards
After you’ve completed the three prerequisites and have gotten stocked up on supplies like weapons, armor, and healing items, make a sprint toward one of the locations above. Assuming the guards spawn, do your best to take them out from behind cover. Of course, headshots are going to be your best friend here, and try not to engage while you’re out in the open. It’s best to attempt this with a squad, as they can assist in eliminating the guards while covering your back.
If you get hurt, retreat quickly and heal. The guards tend to come toward you fast, so you’ll want to be quick when maneuvering in and out of cover. They can even destroy structures you’re hiding in or behind, so be aware of that. Once you defeat three, you’ll need to visit one more location to grab the other two. After you’ve eliminated (not downed) five, you’ll complete the challenge and gain 20,000 XP.
