Apex Legends is a free, squad-based battle royale shooter where teams of unique characters called "Legends" fight to be the last squad standing. If you've heard friends talk about it or seen clips online and wondered what it's all about, this beginner's guide breaks down exactly what Apex Legends is, how a match works, and how to jump in for the first time.
Developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by EA, Apex Legends launched in February 2019 and quickly became one of the biggest games in the battle royale genre. It mixes fast first-person gunplay with hero-style abilities and a strong focus on teamwork. Below, we'll cover the core ideas a new player needs to understand before that first drop.
What is Apex Legends?
At its core, Apex Legends is a battle royale: a large number of players drop onto a map, scavenge for gear, and fight until only one team remains. What sets it apart is that you don't play a generic soldier — you pick a Legend, each with their own personality and special powers. It's free to download and play, and it's funded entirely by optional cosmetic purchases rather than anything that affects gameplay.
How a match works
A standard match is a three-player squad event with around 20 teams competing at once. Everyone launches from a flying drop ship and chooses where to land. From there, you loot buildings for weapons, armour, ammo and healing items, then fight other squads while a deadly ring slowly shrinks the playable area. As the map closes in, squads are forced together until one team is left — that team becomes the Apex Champions.
The Legends and their abilities
The "Legends" are the playable characters, and choosing one is a big part of the game's identity. Every Legend has three kinds of abilities: a Tactical (a signature move on a short cooldown), a Passive (an always-on perk), and an Ultimate (a powerful ability that charges over time). For example, Wraith can phase out of danger, Lifeline can heal and revive teammates faster, and Gibraltar can call in a protective dome and a mortar strike. Legends are grouped into classes such as Assault, Recon, Support and Controller, so you can pick a role that suits how you like to play.
Teamwork and the core loop
Apex Legends is built around its squad. The game's standout ping system lets you mark loot, enemies and destinations with a single button, so you can play effectively even without a microphone. You'll share weapons, ammo and shields with teammates, revive them when they're knocked down, and even bring eliminated allies back by collecting their banner and using a respawn beacon. A coordinated trio that communicates and sticks together will almost always beat three players acting alone.
How to get started
Getting into Apex Legends is quick and costs nothing. You'll need a free EA account, then you can download the game on your platform of choice: PC (via Steam or the EA app), PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, or Nintendo Switch. Cross-play means you can squad up with friends on different systems. New players should run the tutorial and spend a little time in the Firing Range to get comfortable with movement and weapons before heading into a live match.
Beginner tips
- Stick with your squad. Wandering off alone is the fastest way to get eliminated. Move and fight as a group.
- Learn to ping. The ping wheel communicates loot, enemy positions and where you want to go without saying a word.
- Pick up shields and healing early. Survivability often matters more than raw aim for new players.
- Don't be afraid to retreat. Living to fight again is usually better than forcing a bad gunfight.
- Try a starter Legend. Characters like Lifeline, Bangalore or Bloodhound are forgiving choices while you learn.
Frequently asked questions
Is Apex Legends free to play?
Yes. Apex Legends is completely free to download and play on every platform. The only purchases are optional cosmetics, premium currency and a paid Battle Pass track — none of which affect gameplay or give a competitive advantage.
What kind of game is Apex Legends?
It's a first-person, hero-based battle royale shooter. You play as one of many Legends, each with unique abilities, and compete in squads to be the last team standing on a shrinking map.
How many players are in an Apex Legends match?
A standard battle royale match features around 60 players, usually split into about 20 squads of three. The game also offers Duos and rotating limited-time modes.
Do I need a team to play Apex Legends?
No. You can queue solo and be matched with random teammates, or play with friends. Thanks to the built-in ping system, you can coordinate effectively even without voice chat.
Which platforms can I play Apex Legends on?
Apex Legends is available on PC (Steam and the EA app), PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, with cross-play supported between systems.
Final thoughts
Apex Legends is one of the most approachable battle royale games around: it's free, it's team-focused, and its smart ping system makes communication easy for everyone. Pick a Legend that fits your style, learn the basics of looting and the ring, and lean on your squad. For the latest seasons, updates and download links, visit the official Apex Legends website.
