Does Apex Legends have bots?
Yes. Respawn uses AI-controlled bots in Apex Legends, but mainly to help new players: the Firing Range and tutorial have practice dummies, and a dedicated bots playlist lets new accounts play a full battle royale match against AI opponents. Regular public and ranked matches are designed for human players, and the developers have not said that bots fill those lobbies.
Where you meet bots
- Firing Range and training: stationary and moving dummies for testing weapons, recoil and legend abilities.
- Bots playlist for new players: full matches with AI squads, so newcomers can learn looting, rotations and gunfights without being matched against veterans. It is limited to low-level accounts; once you level up, it stops appearing.
- Event and limited-time modes: some events have used AI enemies, such as PvE-style challenges.
Why players suspect bots in normal matches
Low-skill lobbies after a losing streak, players who stand still, or smurf accounts can all feel "bot-like." That impression is not evidence that the game inserts AI into standard matchmaking. If you only see AI opponents, check whether you are in a training or bots playlist.
How bots differ from real players
AI squads move in predictable patterns, rarely use abilities cleverly and react slowly to third-party fights. They are useful for warming up, but they will not teach you how real squads rotate or push.
FAQ
Does Apex put bots in regular lobbies?
Respawn has described bots as a feature for new-player and training modes, not for standard public or ranked matchmaking.
Can I choose to play against bots?
New accounts can use the bots playlist. Everyone can practice against dummies in the Firing Range at any time.
Does Apex Legends have Duos?
Duos has been both a permanent and a rotating mode at different times. Check the in-game mode selector for the current season's playlists.
Has Apex ever had a Solos mode?
Yes, Solos has appeared as a limited-time mode during events rather than as a permanent playlist.