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Fortnite’s Latest Update Introduces New Weapons and Hand Cannon and Stormwings Nerfs

The Latest Fortnite Update: v7.40 Patch Notes Revealed!

The highly anticipated v7.40 Fortnite update has finally arrived! After weeks of teasing and a delayed release, we now have the full patch notes to give us a glimpse of what’s in store for the game once the server downtime is over.

As expected, there are a few balance changes coming to the Hand Cannon, Rocket Launcher, and X-4 Stormwing planes. Additionally, a new aim assist cooldown for controller players will be implemented, along with other resources like an interact bind to use ziplines.

Big Changes to Standard Game Modes

Epic has decided to apply the Pop-Up Cup settings to standard Fortnite: Battle Royale game modes. This means that Solo, Duos, and Squads matches will now have new rules to spice up the gameplay.

Material cap has been increased to 500 of each type. Players will also instantly recover 50 health or shield when they eliminate an opponent, and they will drop 50/50/50 materials when eliminated themselves. Harvesting will be more efficient, with players earning 40 percent more materials from it.

Epic stated that they are testing these settings because they believe that they lead to more engaging fights and provide players with consistent rewards for taking risks.

Share the Love Event

The special Valentine’s Day Fortnite event, Share the Love, begins today. Throughout the week, players can expect to see new skins in the Item Shop rotation, Overtime challenges, and a free Wrap for those who recently entered a Support-a-Creator code. Additionally, the Island Frenzy starts today, featuring a different area created by a player on Fortnite Creative at Battle Royale’s The Block each day.

This event will run until February 28.

Valentine’s Surprise

Epic has announced that players who complete all 13 Overtime Challenges by February 27 will receive the upcoming season eight premium Battle Pass for free. This means early access to two premium outfits and all the usual benefits of a premium pass, such as XP boosts and additional cosmetics.

Balance Adjustments

Hand Cannons have been weakened against structures, dealing 100 damage instead of 150. Stormwing planes can no longer burst through structures, and Rocket Launchers are now only found in Supply Drops and Vending Machines. The reload speed of Rocket Launchers has also been increased by 28 percent.

New and Unvaulted Weapons

The Infantry Rifle and Cupid Crossbow have made their debut in Fortnite: Battle Royale. The Infantry Rifle is a sniper rifle that comes in Common, Uncommon, and Rare variants, dealing 41/43/45 damage per shot with a two times headshot multiplier. It can be found from Floor Loot, Chests, and Vending Machines, and it has no damage falloff.

The Crossbow is also returning to the game for a limited time, likely until Share the Love event ends. It delivers 79 damage to the body and 197 to the head.

Clingers, the explosive item, have also made a comeback.

Gifting

Gifting has returned to Fortnite: Battle Royale for a limited time. From February 15 to 22, players will have the opportunity to send cosmetic items to their friends with ease.