Epic confirms massive changes for Fortnite 7.40

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Fortnite hand cannon
Epic won't tolerate Fortnite hacks.
Photo: Epic Games

Epic Games will make big changes to Fortnite’s planes, zip lines, rocket launcher, and more in its upcoming 7.40 update.

The balance tweaks to some of the game’s more controversial weapons and items come amid growing complaints from the community about the current state of Fortnite. And Epic says these are just some of the changes on the way.

Fortnite remains the biggest battle royale game in the world, and it’s unlikely that will change anytime soon — despite mounting pressure from Apex Legends. But there has been some frustration among the community, particularly from long-time fans, following changes made throughout season seven.

Epic has finally acknowledge many of the complaints and has vowed to made big changes to some of those controversial weapons, items, and vehicles.

Fortnite changes coming in version 7.40

The changes, which Epic confirmed on Twitter and Reddit, will come in this week’s version 7.40 patch, expected to roll out on Wednesday, February 13. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Planes will no longer be able to smash through structures
  • Zipline interact prompt added, and using a Zipline will grant fall damage immunity
  • Hand Cannon structure damage reduced from 150 to 100
  • Turbo Build delay decreased from 0.15s to 0.05s
  • Rocket Launcher reload time increased from 2.52s to 3.24s
  • Rocket Launcher no longer available from chests
  • Added the ability to crouch while in Edit Mode

These are just “some of the changes” that will be included in this patch, Epic says. Its full release notes will be published on the morning of the update’s roll out.

Fixing some of Fortnite’s biggest problems

They might not look it, but some of these tweaks are huge for frequent Fortnite players.

Preventing planes from breaking structures will provide a much more enjoyable experience for builders — just like the reduced structure damage of the Hand Cannon, which will no longer be able to shoot down wooden pieces with one round.

The new zip line prompt means you won’t end up on a zip line accidentally, and fall damage immunity means you can jump off when being shot at and you won’t plummet to your death.

The increased reload time of the rocket launcher and its removal from chests are obviously welcome changes. Many of us would prefer to see the RPG removed altogether, but if it’s staying in the game, any nerf is a good one.

Fortnite 7.40 lands this week

When Fortnite 7.40 rolls out this week, we’ll bring you more information on the changes it brings. We’re expecting it to be a big one that addresses a whole host of problems ahead of season eight, so let’s hope Epic doesn’t disappoint.

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